The government has revealed that the fire tragedy at Hillside Endarasha Academy in Nyeri County, which killed 17 pupils and injured 14 others, affected a dormitory housing male pupils from grades Four to Eight.
In a statement on Friday, September 6, government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura disclosed that a total of 156 pupils were residing in the dormitory.
Mwaura further intimated that emergency services were ongoing to determine the final number of fatalities in the Thursday midnight incident.
"The government deeply regrets to confirm a fatal dormitory fire incident that occurred at Hillside Private Mixed Primary School, Endarsha, Kieni Sub County on Thursday night. The fire broke out around midnight resulting in the deaths of an estimated 15 students, with more than 14 others being taken to Mathari Mission hospital and Nyeri Sub County Referral Hospital for treatment," read part of the statement.
The government spokesman said 50 sacks of rice and 50 sacks of beans have been sent to the school through the government's special programmes, and 100 mattresses and 100 blankets are also on their way.
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At the same time, Mwaura disclosed that the Pankaj Foundation has donated 50 first aid kits which will be sent to the school.
He also added that officials from the Ministry of Health were on site to assess the medical needs and that MP Shah Hospital was sending medical consumables.
"The government is fully committed to supporting the victims, their families, and the broader school community during this incredibly difficult time. We are working closely with all relevant agencies and key stakeholders to provide necessary support," Mwaura stated.
President William Ruto on Friday morning ordered a thorough investigation into the incident affirming that anyone responsible for the tragedy will be held to account.
"Our thoughts are with the families of the children who have lost their lives in the fire tragedy at the Hillside Endarasha Academy in Nyeri County. This is devastating news.
"We pray for speedy recovery to the survivors. I instruct relevant authorities to thoroughly investigate this horrific incident. Those responsible will be held to account," Ruto remarked.
