Utumishi Girls Academy closed indefinitely after dormitory fire

Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil has been closed temporarily as investigation into the cause of the fire, which left 16 students dead, continues.

Education CS Julius Ogamba said the closure of the institution will allow investigators room to look into the cause of the fire.

Ogamba has announced the formation of a multi-agency team to handle the crisis following the deadly dormitory fire at Utumishi Academy in Gilgil that claimed the lives of 16 students.

Speaking after the tragedy, Ogamba expressed condolences to the affected families and students, saying the government was committed to uncovering the cause of the fire and ensuring accountability.

“As a government, we have formed a multi-agency team that is going to handle this crisis,” Ogamba said.

The CS acknowledged the pain and trauma experienced by students following the loss of their colleagues and urged them to support each other during the difficult period.

“I know the pain of losing your friends. I want to urge us to be each other’s keeper in prayer and in comfort so that we can continue encouraging each other,” he said.

Ogamba noted that investigations into the incident had already commenced, adding that legal action would be taken against anyone found responsible once the cause of the fire is established.

“This is an incident that has been caused by a fire. Once investigations are complete and the cause established, should there be any culpability from any quarter, whether from a student or any other individual, the government will take the necessary legal action to ensure that it does not happen again,” he stated.

The CS further announced that students would be released for a few days as authorities work to address the crisis and improve safety measures at the institution.

“We will be releasing you today for a few days as we work through this crisis, and we will be ensuring that by the time you are getting back, everything has been put in place to ensure you can continue with your studies,” Ogamba said.