Tragic Boarding School Fire in Kenya Claims 17 Lives, Dozens Missing.

Kenya:

A devastating fire at Hillside Endarasha Academy in Nyeri County, central Kenya, has left 17 pupils confirmed dead and 70 still missing. The fire broke out in the dormitory of the private primary school around midnight local time. With more than 150 pupils in the dormitory at the time, the blaze spread rapidly through the timber-built structure.

The Ministry of Education has confirmed the death toll, but the exact number of fatalities remains uncertain as search and rescue operations continue. Many parents are anxiously awaiting news of their missing children, with some believed to have fled the scene or been picked up by their families.

Fourteen injured children have been hospitalized, and local officials are assisting with rescue efforts. The cause of the fire is still unknown, and an investigation is underway. President William Ruto has called the incident “horrific” and has promised that those responsible will be held accountable.

In response to the crisis, the International Committee of the Red Cross has set up a temporary trauma center at the school to provide counseling to affected children. The government has pledged support for families, including assistance with burials and hospital bills.

This tragedy highlights ongoing concerns about safety standards in Kenyan boarding schools, where such incidents have occurred in the past. The government is expected to release a detailed report on the fire once the investigation is complete.