Uhuru mourns pupils killed in Hillside Endarasha Academy fire tragedy

A devastating fire engulfed Hillside Endarasha Academy in Kieni, Nyeri, resulting in the tragic deaths of 17 young pupils. The inferno, which began around 11 pm, has left the community in shock and mourning, with several others sustaining injuries. The heartbreaking news has drawn responses of profound sympathy and calls for action from leaders across Kenya.

Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta has expressed his deep sorrow over the tragic loss. In a heartfelt statement shared on his X handle, Kenyatta described the deaths as an indescribable pain. “The loss of young lives full of potential and hope for the future is a pain that cannot be fully described,” Kenyatta wrote. He extended his condolences to the bereaved families and the school community, offering prayers for strength, comfort, and peace. Kenyatta also wished for a swift recovery for the injured students, reflecting the gravity of the tragedy that has struck Hillside Endarasha Academy.

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja also offered his condolences, emphasizing the collective grief of the nation. “To the parents, families, and friends of the children of Hillside Endarasha Academy, and to the residents of Nyeri, Poleni sana from your brothers and sisters, the people of Nairobi,” Sakaja conveyed in a statement. He acknowledged the unbearable nature of the loss, especially in such a tragic manner, and assured the affected community of Nairobi’s support and prayers for both the bereaved and the injured.

Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo echoed the sentiments of grief and solidarity while also addressing the steps being taken in response to the tragedy. In a social media post, Omollo stated, “We are deeply saddened by the tragic fire at Hillside Endarasha Academy in Kieni, Nyeri, which claimed the lives of young pupils and left others injured.” He confirmed that a thorough investigation is underway, with DCI officers and police securing the site. Disaster response teams, including the National Disaster Operation Centre and National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs), are actively coordinating aid and counseling for the affected families. Omollo assured that the government will provide necessary support and follow up to prevent such tragedies in the future.

The messages of condolences and support did not stop with Kenyatta, Sakaja, and Omollo. President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga also conveyed their sympathies. Ruto expressed his sorrow and pledged government support for the families affected. Odinga, too, extended his condolences, emphasizing the nation’s collective mourning and the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address and prevent such incidents.

This tragedy has not only highlighted the fragility of life but has also brought to the forefront the need for rigorous safety protocols in schools and other public institutions. As the community grapples with the loss of young lives, there is a heightened call for accountability and preventive measures to ensure the safety of children across the country.

In the wake of this devastating event, the focus now shifts to supporting the grieving families and ensuring that the affected students receive the necessary medical care and counseling. The investigation into the cause of the fire will be critical in determining how such a tragedy could have been avoided and in implementing changes to safeguard against future incidents.

The nation stands united in mourning, with leaders and citizens alike reflecting on the profound loss and the urgent need for collective action to prevent similar tragedies in the future.