The Ministry of Gender, Culture and Children Services has called on the public and the media to respect the privacy and dignity of learners affected by the fire tragedy at Utumishi Girls Academy Senior School in Gilgil, Nakuru County.

Gender CS Hanna Wendot has warned against the sharing of graphic images, identities of minors, or unverified information related to the incident.

In a press statement issued on Thursday, May 28, 2026, the Ministry, through the State Department for Children Services, conveyed its condolences to the families of those affected, confirming that the incident had resulted in loss of lives and injuries among learners.

The ministry said children officers and child protection personnel have been deployed on the ground to coordinate immediate interventions, including safeguarding affected learners, supporting family tracing and reunification, and ensuring emergency child protection services are in place.

Psychosocial support and trauma counselling services are also being coordinated for survivors, bereaved families, teachers, and first responders to support emotional recovery and mental wellbeing.

Family support and information desks are additionally being set up to assist parents and guardians and facilitate coordinated case management.

The State Department for Children Services said it will work closely with the Ministry of Education, county authorities, emergency response teams, the Kenya Red Cross, and other stakeholders on investigations and child safeguarding assessments.

The Ministry also took the opportunity to reiterate the importance of enforcing school safety standards and strengthening emergency preparedness systems in learning institutions, as envisioned under the Children Act, 2022.

“The public and the media are urged to uphold the dignity and privacy of affected learners and families by avoiding the sharing of graphic images, identities of minors or unverified information relating to the incident,” the statement noted.