Fire Razes Dormitory at Thika Children’s Rescue Centre

A fire incident has destroyed one of the dormitories at the Thika Children’s Rescue Centre, authorities confirmed in an official press statement released Wednesday February 18, in Nairobi.

The blaze, which occurred Tuesday 17, razed down part of the institution that houses dozens of vulnerable children but resulted in no reported injuries or fatalities.

In a statement issued by the Ministry of Gender, Culture and Children Services through the State Department for Children Services, the government confirmed that all occupants were safely evacuated.

The Centre is home to sixty-three (63) boys, many of whom have lived at the facility for several years under institutional care.

“Yesterday, a fire incident occurred at the Thika Children’s Rescue Centre, razing down one of the dormitories at the institution,” the statement read.

It added that the Centre, “is home to sixty-three (63) boys, most of whom have been under care at the facility for several years.”

No Casualties Reported

Authorities moved quickly to reassure the public about the safety of the children and staff.

“We wish to confirm that there were no casualties recorded during the incident. All children and staff were safely evacuated, and immediate measures were taken to secure their safety and wellbeing,” the statement noted.

The Principal Secretary in the State Department for Children Services, CPA Carren Ageng’o, accompanied by Thika Town Member of Parliament Hon. Alice Ng’ang’a and government security teams, visited the scene shortly after the incident.

The delegation evaluated the level of damage and organized interventions for immediate response.

According to the press release, the visit aimed “to assess the extent of the damage and coordinate immediate response interventions,” signaling high-level government attention to the matter.

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Alternative Accommodation Arranged

Government officials confirmed that arrangements are underway to ensure continuity of care for the affected children.

“Arrangements are ongoing to provide the affected children with alternative safe accommodation and essential supplies to ensure continuity of care and minimal disruption to their daily routines, including schooling and psychosocial support,” the statement said.

The swift containment of the fire was attributed to joint efforts by local and national authorities.

The Ministry commended the rapid response by the Kenya Army Barracks in Thika and the County Government of Kiambu, stating their support “was instrumental in containing the fire and preventing further damage.”

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Meanwhile, investigations into the cause of the fire have commenced.

“Relevant government agencies have commenced investigations to establish the cause of the fire. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available,” the statement confirmed.

The government reiterated its commitment to children in institutional care, emphasizing that it “remains fully committed to safeguarding the welfare, safety, and rights of all children under institutional care.”

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