- According to Mwaura, the county government of Nyeri was the first to respond by providing two fire engines, counsellors and food.
- He said that the Office of the First Lady offered one truck of food.
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The government has extended humanitarian support to families of the victims and survivors of the Hillside Endarasha Academy fire tragedy.
The tragic fire that broke out at the Hillside Endarasha Academy on Thursday at 11pm claimed the lives of 21 pupils.
Government spokesman Isaac Mwaura said that 19 bodies were recovered from the scene while two more pupils succumbed to their injuries in hospital.
He said the government is aware of the immense suffering endured by the families affected by the tragic fire.
"In response to this situation, the government has provided humanitarian assistance to support the victims and their families. They will be distributed to the affected individuals and families to help meet their immediate needs," Mwaura said.
Among the donated food and non-food items are 100 bags of rice (50 kg), 50 bags of beans (50 kg), 20 bags of corn soya blend 24 kg and 200 pieces of blankets.
Other items include 100 kitchen sets, 20 boxes of soap and five bales of sanitary pads.
Mwaura said the supplies will be collected by the Nyeri County Commissioner from the local cereals and produce board depot and transported to the school.
He said the distribution will be managed with the help of the agencies on the ground to ensure that the items reach the target beneficiaries effectively.
According to Mwaura, the county government of Nyeri was the first to respond by providing two fire engines, counsellors and food.
He said that the Office of the First Lady offered one truck of food.
First Lady Mama Rachel Ruto sent her heartfelt condolences to the families of the bereaved.
The government spokesman said health professionals are on-site to provide specialised care and assistance to the affected families.
Mwaura said the Kenya Red Cross is coordinating support for affected parents and the school community, providing aid and counselling services.
"They have deployed 63 counsellors, set up six tents for counselling, and provided eight vehicles to support the ongoing rescue efforts. Amani counselling center is on the ground as well offering additional counselling and psychosocial support to those impacted by the tragedy."
Mwaura issued the update on Saturday moments after concluding his visit to the school where he had accompanied officials from the Ministry of Education led by CS Julius Ogamba and Basic Education PS Belio Kipsang.
He said the cause of the fire is not yet known but assured Kenyans that the government has mobilised all relevant agencies and continues to work diligently to conduct thorough investigations.
"Those found responsible will be brought to justice. The government is committed to ensuring accountability for every learner. Ensuring the safety of learners remains a top priority for the government. We will continue to follow through to ensure that the relevant policies are strictly adhered to," he said.
Mwaura condoled with the families and friends of the victims and those who suffered physical and psychological scars.
"It is truly devastating for the nation to lose such a number of young and promising Kenyans. Our hearts are heavy; our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families during this tragic moment," he said.
He thanked Kenyans who stepped forward to support the affected children during the difficult situation, including the school community and surrounding neighbours.