NAKURU, Kenya — Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has said two teachers at Utumishi Girls School in Gilgil were allegedly informed in advance of planned unrest by a section of Form Three learners prior to the dormitory fire that killed 16 students.
Speaking on the incident, the CS said preliminary findings indicate that the teachers did not take appropriate preventive action despite receiving warnings.
“Two teachers were informed of planned unrest by a section of Form Three learners,” Ogamba said. “However, the teachers did not take appropriate action before the arson, despite having been informed beforehand.”
The revelation comes as investigations into the fire continue, with authorities now treating the incident as a suspected case of arson.
According to Ogamba, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is currently holding and questioning eight learners identified as persons of interest in the case. He said investigators are working to establish their individual roles in the planning and execution of what he described as a “heinous act”.
“Those found culpable will be charged in accordance with the provisions of the Penal Code and other relevant laws,” he said.
Preliminary findings point to safety lapses
The Education CS also confirmed that early investigations have identified possible breaches of safety standards at the institution, including dormitory overcrowding and violations of fire safety protocols.
“In particular, there was congestion in the dormitory, and one exit door was locked, contrary to the prescribed safety requirements,” he said.
He added that the findings suggest non-compliance with provisions outlined in the School Safety Manual and the Basic Education Regulations, which require strict adherence to emergency evacuation procedures and accessible exits in boarding facilities.
Authorities have warned that further accountability measures could follow depending on the outcome of ongoing investigations.
Victims, injuries and identification process
The fire left 79 learners injured, with varying degrees of severity. Seven students remain admitted at Kenyatta National Hospital, while the majority of the injured have since been treated and discharged.
The bodies of the deceased have been transferred to Naivasha Sub-County Hospital mortuary, where preservation and DNA identification processes are underway.
Parents and guardians have been directed to report to the facility to assist in the identification process.
“Parents and guardians are therefore being directed to the facility for purposes of DNA testing,” the CS said.
National mourning and presidential response
President William Ruto led the country in mourning the victims, describing the fire as a devastating national tragedy.
“Our hearts and prayers are with the families who have lost their beloved daughters in the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil,” the President said.
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He emphasized that government agencies were prioritizing rescue efforts, medical treatment for the injured, and support for affected families, while investigations continue into the cause of the fire.
“No words can truly ease the pain of losing young lives filled with promise, hope, and dreams for the future,” he said.
The President extended condolences to bereaved families, teachers, and students, urging unity during the period of national grief.
“May God grant comfort and strength to the grieving families during this painful time. Poleni sana,” he added.
Investigations into the cause of the fire, as well as possible lapses in duty of care, remain ongoing, with authorities indicating that further action will be taken based on forensic and administrative findings.
