President Ruto Mourns 16 Utumishi Girls Students Killed In Dormitory Inferno

President William Ruto has led the nation in mourning following the horrific dawn dormitory fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, which claimed the lives of 16 students and left dozens of others severely injured.

In a statement shared via his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Thursday, the Head of State expressed deep sorrow over the catastrophe, describing the loss as a devastating blow to the nation.

“No Words Can Ease the Pain”

President Ruto extended his deepest sympathies to the grieving families, noting that the country stands in solidarity with the institutional community during this dark period.

“Our hearts and prayers are with the families who have lost their beloved daughters in the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil,” President Ruto stated. “No words can truly ease the pain of losing young lives filled with promise, hope, and dreams for the future. As a nation, we mourn with the parents, guardians, teachers, and fellow students who are enduring this unimaginable tragedy.”

Emergency Response and Investigations Prioritized

The President assured the public that the government has mobilized multi-agency resources to handle the aftermath of the disaster, focusing heavily on medical stabilization and psychological support for the survivors.

“Our immediate attention is focused on the rescue of those affected, the treatment of the injured, and support for their families, while investigations continue into the cause of the fire,” the Head of State added.

National Outpouring of Grief

The catastrophic incident at the Gilgil-based national school has triggered widespread shock, anger, and heartbreak across Kenya. Security and police reports have confirmed a grim toll of 16 fatalities, with 74 other learners currently hospitalized across various medical facilities in Nakuru County, nursing varying degrees of burns and injuries sustained during the escape.

Political, religious, and community leaders from across the country have joined the school community in sending messages of condolence, as demands for stringent boarding school safety audits intensify nationwide.