By Chinasaokwu Helen Okoro
At least 17 pupils have lost their lives after a devastating fire broke out in a dormitory at Hillside Endarasha Academy, a primary school in Nyeri County, Kenya, late Thursday night.
The fire left more than a dozen others with severe burns, who have been rushed to hospital.
There are fears that the death toll could rise as rescue operations continue.
Authorities are yet to confirm the cause of the fire.
Kenyan President William Ruto has expressed his deep sorrow over the incident, calling it “horrific” and “devastating.
” He has ordered an immediate investigation into the tragedy, vowing that those responsible will face justice.
Police spokesperson Resila Onyango revealed that the bodies recovered from the scene were “burnt beyond recognition.”
She warned that more victims may still be found as investigations proceed.
A team of investigators has been deployed to the school to determine the cause of the fire and ensure accountability.
The community remains in shock as the search for answers continues.
The Kenya Red Cross is providing trauma counseling for students, teachers, and families affected by this unimaginable loss.
They have also set up a tracing desk to assist with locating missing individuals.
