Ruto Breaks Silence on Utumishi Girls Fire Incident

President William Ruto has broken his silence following a tragic fire incident at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil that occurred on the morning of Wednesday, May 28, 2026.

In a statement dated Wednesday, May 28, the president expressed sorrow over the loss of lives and sent condolences to the affected families, teachers, and students.

“Our hearts and prayers are with the families who have lost their beloved daughters in the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil,” Ruto said.

Ruto Speaks on Utumishi Girls Academy Fire

The president said Kenya was mourning the young students who died in the fire incident.

He said it was painful to lose young girls who had bright futures and big dreams ahead of them.

President Ruto said the government was currently focused on rescuing those affected, treating the injured, and helping the families affected by the tragedy.

Also Read: 16 Utumishi Girls Academy Students Confirmed Dead After Midnight School Fire

He also said investigations were ongoing to find out what caused the fire.

The president said the whole country was standing with parents, teachers, guardians, and students during the difficult time.

The Head of State also prayed for strength and comfort for the grieving families.

“May God give comfort and strength to the families during this painful time. Poleni sana,” he said.

Education CS Gives Update on Fire Incident

At the same time, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba also gave an update on the tragic incident, saying the fire broke out at around 12:45 am in one of the dormitories located on the second floor.

Also Read: CCTV Exposes Four Students Behind Dorm Fire That Shut Down School

Ogamba said the dormitory was completely destroyed by the fire.

According to the CS, the school has a total population of 815 girls, but 808 students were in school at the time of the incident, while seven were at home for various reasons.

He revealed that 79 students were injured and rushed to the hospital for treatment.

“Out of the 79 injured learners, 71 have already been treated and discharged. Seven are still admitted in hospital while one learner was picked up by a parent,” Ogamba said.

The CS further confirmed that 16 students died in the tragedy.

He noted that the process of identifying the victims was ongoing, together with investigations into the cause of the fire.

“It is an unfortunate incident,” Ogamba said.

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Photo of Education CS Julius Ogamba addressing a past function. PHOTO/MoE