A fire incident at Moi Girls High School in Kibra, Nairobi, has been successfully contained, with officials confirming that all students are safe and accounted for. The blaze, which affected one dormitory, was managed swiftly by the Nairobi City County fire brigade, ensuring no casualties were reported.
The Kenya Red Cross was among the first organizations to respond, providing critical support to the affected school. In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), the humanitarian agency confirmed the deployment of its resources to assist the school community. Among the support items are 200 mattresses, 400 blankets, and 200 dignity kits, which are expected to provide immediate relief to the students and staff affected by the fire.
“Our counseling team will be offering Psychosocial Support Services to the affected,” the statement read, emphasizing the importance of mental health support in the wake of such distressing incidents.
This fire adds to a concerning trend of similar incidents in Kenyan schools, sparking renewed debates about fire safety measures in learning institutions. The Nairobi Woman Representative, Esther Passaris, voiced her concern over the recurring issue.
“Deeply saddened and concerned by the recent fires in our schools, the latest being Moi Girls High School in Kibra. My prayers are with the students, staff, and parents during this difficult time. I commend the brave efforts of the Nairobi City fire brigade to contain the blaze and the Kenya Red Cross for their support,” Passaris stated.
She urged authorities to prioritize investigating the causes of these incidents and to implement measures to prevent future occurrences.
The swift response of the Nairobi City County fire brigade and Kenya Red Cross was praised widely on social media, with many acknowledging their role in averting a potential disaster. The focus now shifts to restoring normalcy at Moi Girls High School and ensuring the affected students receive the necessary support.
As investigations into the cause of the fire begin, stakeholders are calling for increased fire safety training and infrastructure in schools to safeguard students and staff. The Ministry of Education and other relevant agencies are expected to address this growing concern to prevent similar incidents.
With the school term underway, efforts to rebuild and reassure parents and students are crucial. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of preparedness and the need for collective efforts to prioritize the safety of Kenya’s learning institutions.
