Government Expresses Condolences After Fire at Utumishi Girls Academy Senior School

The Ministry of Gender, Culture and Children Services has expressed deep sorrow following a tragic fire incident at Utumishi Girls Academy Senior School, which has resulted in loss of life and injuries among learners.

In a press statement issued on Thursday, May 28, 2026, in Nairobi, Cabinet Secretary Hanna Wendot Cheptumo conveyed the government’s condolences to the families affected, the school community, and all those impacted by the tragedy.

“The Ministry, through the State Department for Children Services, expresses profound sorrow following the tragic fire incident reported at Utumishi Girls Academy Senior School,” the statement read, adding that emergency response mechanisms have been activated to support affected learners and families.

The government confirmed that children protection officers have been deployed to the institution to coordinate immediate interventions, including safeguarding affected learners, facilitating family tracing and reunification, and ensuring emergency protection services are provided.

Psychosocial support and trauma counselling services are also being coordinated for survivors, bereaved families, teachers, and first responders to aid emotional recovery and mental wellbeing. The Ministry further noted that family support and information desks are being established to assist parents and guardians.

In line with the Children Act 2022, the State Department for Children Services said it has intensified child protection measures and activated response systems to ensure the welfare and safety of affected learners during this difficult period.

The Ministry also revealed that it is working closely with the Ministry of Education, county authorities, emergency response teams, Kenya Red Cross, and other stakeholders to investigate the incident and ensure compliance with safety standards in learning institutions.

Authorities have reiterated the need to strengthen school safety systems and emergency preparedness across the country to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

The government urged members of the public and the media to respect the dignity and privacy of affected families by avoiding the circulation of graphic images, identities of minors, or unverified information.

Further updates will be issued through official government channels as investigations continue.