Kenya orders nationwide boarding school inspections after Utumishi Girls fire kills 16

A dormitory fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, Kenya on 28 May killed 16 students and injured dozens more. CCTV footage captured the moments before the blaze, showing a group of students entering the dorm and, according to investigators, two of them igniting a match and spreading kerosene‑soaked material, causing the fire to spread rapidly. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations identified seven students from video and forensic analysis, with six already in custody and a seventh being sought. Eight students have been arrested in connection with the arson.

Kenyan Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen said the footage “deeply disturbed” him and confirmed the fire was deliberately set. In response, Education Ministry Principal Secretary Julius Bitok ordered a comprehensive inspection of all boarding schools across the country within ten days, pledging strict action against any school or principal found violating safety standards. The inspections will focus on dormitory capacity, emergency exits, fire‑fighting equipment and overall student safety.

The tragedy has revived debate over safety protocols in Kenyan boarding schools, which have experienced several recent fire incidents. Authorities emphasize that the investigation continues to determine motives and that further legal proceedings are pending.