Dormitory fire destroys property, injures six students at Sameta Boys in Kisii

Fire incident at Sameta Boys Senior School on July 1, 2026./SCREENGRAB

A dormitory at Sameta Boys High School in Kisii County has been destroyed by fire, leaving six students injured and forcing the indefinite closure of the institution as authorities launch investigations into the incident.

The blaze, whose cause remains unknown, gutted one of the school's dormitories in Sameta Sub-county, causing extensive property losses and reigniting concerns over a rising wave of school fires across the country.

Smouldering debris and salvaged student belongings lie outside a dormitory at Sameta Boys High School in Kisii County, after a fire outbreak razed the building,  on Monday, June 1, 2026./KNA

Six students sustained minor injuries as they scrambled to salvage their belongings from the burning structure. They were rushed to a hospital in Ogembo, where they received treatment and were later discharged.

Speaking to students after the incident, Sameta Sub-county Director of Education Christine Ongwae described the fire as unfortunate and warned against destructive behaviour in schools.

“It is unfortunate that we continue to witness such incidents in our institutions. We have seen what happened in Utumishi Girls, where lives were lost. We must not allow such situations to re-occur,” Ongwae said.

She urged students to embrace dialogue and use existing communication channels to air their concerns instead of resorting to actions that could endanger lives and property.

“I encourage you to always use the available communication channels, including speaking to teachers you are comfortable with or using suggestion boxes, to air your concerns instead of resorting to destruction,” she said.

Ongwae further cautioned that those found responsible for acts of arson in schools would face serious consequences.

“Setting school infrastructure ablaze is equivalent to treason. Anyone found culpable or involved in any way will face severe disciplinary and legal action,” she warned.

Sameta Deputy County Commissioner Angella Wanyama also condemned the incident and appealed to students to cooperate with investigators.

“We urge students to provide any information that may help us understand the root cause of this incident. Officers from various departments will work together to ensure thorough investigations are conducted and measures are put in place to prevent a recurrence,” Wanyama said.

Following the fire, school management and education authorities resolved to send students home indefinitely as investigations and recovery efforts continue.

The students are expected to be recalled once the situation stabilises.

The incident adds to a growing list of school fire cases that have alarmed education stakeholders and prompted renewed calls for enhanced safety measures, vigilance and better communication between students and school administrators.