Fire in Kenyan school kills 17 students, injures 13
- Eighteen boys died and 27 were hospitalized due to a fire in a school dormitory in central Kenya.
- The government has called for adherence to safety guidelines in boarding schools to prevent future incidents.
- An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire, amidst concerns over student safety.
A tragic fire occurred in a school dormitory in central Kenya, resulting in the deaths of 18 boys aged between 10 and 14, with 27 others hospitalized. The incident took place on a Thursday night, and as of the following Sunday, dozens of boys remained unaccounted for. The Kenyan government has initiated a three-day mourning period, led by President William Ruto, as officials work to confirm the death toll and identify the missing students. The fire has raised serious concerns regarding safety regulations in boarding schools, particularly the need for spacious dormitories equipped with multiple exits. The government has urged school administrators to adhere to these guidelines to prevent future tragedies. Reports indicate that school fires in Kenya are often linked to overcrowding and arson, sometimes fueled by student protests over living conditions or academic pressures. Parents of the missing children have expressed their anguish as they await news, with some breaking down upon seeing the remnants of the dormitory. The emotional toll on families is significant, as many had hoped for the safe return of their children. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the fire, which is part of a broader issue of safety in Kenyan boarding schools. Past incidents, including a deadly fire in 2001 that claimed 67 lives, highlight the urgent need for improved safety measures to protect students in these educational institutions.