- 14 other pupils were injured in the fire tragedy.
- According to Nyeri County Commissioner Pius Murugu, the individual dorm that caught fire had 152 pupils, it housed Grades 4 to 8 boys.
Image: Wangare Mwangi/ KNA
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has extended his heartfelt condolences to the 17 pupils who were burnt beyond recognition after a fire engulfed Hillside Endarasha Academy in Kieni, Nyeri County.
14 other pupils were injured in the fire tragedy.
In his statement, Uhuru described the loss of these young lives, full of potential and hope for the future, as a pain that he cannot describe.
He expressed sympathy for the families who have lost their children and for the broader school community.
"The loss of young lives, full of potential and hope for the future, is a pain that cannot be fully described. My heart goes out to the families who lost their children and the school community deeply affected by this tragedy of unimaginable magnitude. May God give you the strength, comfort, and peace you need as you cope with this loss," Uhuru said.
The former President also wished for a swift recovery for all the injured children, "praying for God's healing and strength as they recover physically and emotionally from this traumatic event."
The school had 824 pupils.
According to Nyeri County Commissioner Pius Murugu, the individual dorm that caught fire had 152 pupils, it housed Grades 4 to 8 boys.
The county commissioner who is leading a multi-agency team that arrived at the school said the dead learners could not be saved.
President William Ruto in a phone conversation with the school’s head this morning, pledged support to the affected families.
“This is heartbreaking; it is devastating,” said President Ruto as he prayed for speedy recovery to the survivors.
He also instructed the Ministry of Interior and Coordination of the National Government to mobilise resources to support those affected.
The President further instructed relevant authorities to thoroughly investigate the horrible incident.
“Those responsible will be held to account.”
Parents arrived early in the morning to establish the status of their children while others had already been reconnected with theirs.
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura has said dry foods - 50 bags of rice and 50 bags of beans were en route to the site via Special Programs.
According to Mwaura, 100 mattresses and 100 blankets were also being dispatched, with an estimated arrival time of 2 pm.