Lilian Nyiva
A requiem mass for the 16 students who lost their lives in the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, will be held today at Gilgil Stadium. The memorial service is expected to bring together bereaved families, government officials, religious leaders, students, and members of the public to honour the victims and offer support to the affected families.
Bodies to Be Released After Service
Authorities have confirmed that the bodies of the victims will be released to their families following the requiem mass to allow for burial preparations. The arrangement follows consultations between government officials and families, who had expressed concerns over delays in the release of the remains.
Tragedy Claimed 16 Lives
The students died after a devastating dormitory fire at the school on May 28, 2026. The incident also left several other learners injured and sparked national mourning. The tragedy is among the deadliest school fire incidents in Kenya in recent years and has renewed concerns about student safety in boarding institutions.
DNA Identification Process Completed
The government completed the identification of all the victims through DNA testing, a process necessitated by the severity of the burns suffered during the fire. Officials said the exercise was critical in ensuring that each family received the correct remains of their loved one before burial arrangements commenced.
Renewed Calls for School Safety Reforms
The tragedy has intensified calls for stricter enforcement of safety standards in schools across the country. Education stakeholders and human rights groups have urged school administrators and government agencies to strengthen fire prevention measures, conduct regular safety inspections, and improve emergency response systems in boarding schools.
Nation Mourns Young Lives Lost
As the requiem mass takes place, families and communities continue to mourn the loss of the 16 students whose lives were cut short by the tragedy. The service is expected to provide an opportunity for collective remembrance and reflection as the nation continues to seek answers and measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
