Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has sent his condolences to the families and community of Hillside Endarasha Academy in Kieni, Nyeri County after a fire claimed the lives of 17 pupils and left 14 others seriously injured.
The night inferno occurred on Thursday, September 5, 2024, at 11 pm, claiming the lives of the young learners and leading to several injuries.
The fourth president has described the deaths as pain that cannot be described.
“The loss of young lives full of potential and hope for the future is a pain that cannot be fully described. My heart goes out to the families who lost their children and the school community deeply affected by this tragedy of unimaginable magnitude.
“May God give you the strength, comfort, and peace you need as you cope with this loss,” Uhuru said in a statement shared on his X handle.
Uhuru also wished for a swift recovery for all the injured children and prayed for God’s healing and strength for the families affected.
While joining the nation in mourning the deaths that occurred in Kieni, Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo promised that investigations would be undertaken.
“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. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families, friends, and the entire school community during this devastating time.
“A thorough investigation is underway, with DCI officers on-site and police securing the area. Disaster response teams, including the National Disaster Operation Centre and NGAOs, are coordinating aid and counseling for the affected families, while education and health professionals provide essential care.
“We will provide all necessary support to the affected families and follow up to ensure that such tragedies are prevented in the future,” the PS said in a social media post.
President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga also sent their messages after the incident that shocked the nation in the morning.
