Fatshimetrie
A tragic fire broke out at Hillside Endarasha Academy in Nyeri County, Kenya, killing at least 17 children. In the early hours of the morning on September 6, 2024, flames engulfed the dormitory of the primary school, where more than 150 children were sleeping peacefully. The scene, which unfolded as the local community watched helplessly, plunged the country into mourning and disbelief.
Authorities confirmed that the average age of the victims was about nine years old. Hillside Endarasha Academy, which has about 800 students, is located in a semi-rural area about 170 kilometers north of Nairobi. Police described a heartbreaking scene, with bodies found charred beyond recognition. Injured children were rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Anguished families waited outside the school gates, hoping to be reunited with their loved ones. Survivors’ accounts spoke of terrifying moments, escaping the flames through windows in a desperate bid to survive. Images of the devastated dormitory, with its tin roof collapsed, testify to the violence of the fire and the destruction it left behind.
Home Affairs Minister Kithure Kindiki assured families that the children who survived were in good hands, even though they were deeply traumatised by the experience. Rescue and psychological support efforts were intensified, with teams on the ground to support students, teachers and affected families.
An investigation into the cause of the fire was ongoing, but the National Commission for Gender and Equality stressed that the dormitory was overcrowded, in violation of safety standards. An immediate investigation has been called for to establish accountability and prevent such tragedies in the future.
President William Ruto, who is currently in China for a China-Africa summit, has expressed his condolences and ordered a thorough investigation into the tragic incident. He stressed that those responsible for the terrible loss of life should be held accountable.
The fire at Hillside Endarasha Academy in Nyeri is a painful reminder of the dangers faced by students in schools in the region. Similar tragic events have occurred in the past, highlighting the need for enhanced safety and security standards in educational settings.
In this time of mourning and reflection, the Kenyan nation and the international community come together to support the bereaved families and demand concrete measures to prevent such disasters in the futureThe lesson learned from this tragedy must serve as a catalyst for positive change, ensuring the safety and well-being of children in all educational institutions.