Grief enveloped Mweiga stadium in Kieni constituency, Nyeri county, yesterday during a memorial service for 21 pupils killed in a dormitory fire at Hillside Endarasha Academy three weeks ago.

Thousands of mourners – led by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and other top dignitaries – arrived at the stadium by 8am for the three-hour interdenominational prayers.

A sombre mood also engulfed the venue as caskets bearing the remains of the 21 pupils were taken from hearses and placed in a single line.

Struck with sadness, the bereaved families, friends and hundreds of students who survived the September 5 fire followed the proceedings, many sobbing quietly. The school remains closed as investigations into the blaze continues, meaning many students could not bid farewell to their departed peers.

The fire raged through the dormitory at the boarding school at night, killing 21 of the more than 150 pupils who were at the time. The lost souls were described variously as enthusiastic, creative, calm, and reserved.

One of them, Roy Victor, was described as enthusiastic and responsible, while another, John Komu, was outgoing and adventurous.

Another pupil, Timothy Wamae, was characterised as persistent and reserved, while Emmanuel Maina was creative and calm.

Success King’ori was described as responsible and disciplined, while Samvin Munene was cheerful and well-groomed.

Others, like Timothy Weru, was described as kindhearted and jovial, while Kent Mungai was compassionate and industrious.

Another pupil, Ferdinand Karuku, was said to have been humble and innovative, Kevin Kabogo as social and ambitious, and Travis Kariuki as humble and well-mannered.

Roy Branton was said to have been empathetic and hardworking, Lewis Machira as curious and gentle, while Collins Mureithi was confident and lively.

President William Ruto, in his condolence message read on his behalf by Gachagua, assured mourners that the government will continue supporting the affected families and called for strict compliance with the boarding school regulations.

 “We are pained by the loss of young lives in the Hillside Endarasha Academy fire tragedy. They were hardworking with a promising future. As investigations continue, we commit to support the families affected by the horrific accident,” Ruto said.

“We also call for strict compliance with regulations to prevent the recurrence of such tragedies. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims and the Hillside Endarasha Academy fraternity.”

Gachagua asked the Ministry of Education to ensure that all schools comply with safety standards.

“May our Lord give the families and relatives comfort. It is difficult, we can’t pretend that it is easy for them. If possible, it is much better for parents to be buried by children than parents to bury their children,” the DP told the mourners who were overwhelmed with grief.

“We lost innocent souls. Let us continue praying and standing with the bereaved families. Let us show them love and support.”

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta, in his message of condolence, said the loss of 21 pupils was “painful and devastating” for Kenya.

“The loss of young minds full of potential for a better future is painful and devastating. My heart goes out to the affected families. Wish quick recovery for all injured pupils to recover physically and emotionally,” Kenyatta said in a message read by DAP-Kenya party leader Eugene Wamalwa.

For his part, Wamalwa said: “We believe these little children will be resting with angels in heaven until we meet again. This is one of the greatest national tragedies that happened in our country”.

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba said an audit of schools now underway will continue to ensure that they comply with safety standards.

“The loss of the young lives will not be in vain. This is a turning point. Schools must be a safe haven for children,” he said.

“Parents should not live with anxiety about the safety of their children in school. We are keen to establish the cause of the tragedy and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations is leading the process.”

Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga urged President Ruto’s administration to support the school and its proprietor.

“That school has over the years produced the best results. We need to support its director so that it can rise again,” he said.

“I urge you, my Deputy President, to reach out to the President so that we can come to the aid of that school. There are pupils who are slated to sit for their national exams. We need to ensure that there is continuity of learning.”

Neither the proprietor nor the headteacher spoke yesterday.

The prayers ended at 11am. They were led by PCEA moderator Rev Thegu Mutahi and New Life Church Bishop Paul Wanjohi.

Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Jubilee secretary general Jeremiah Kioni, former Kiambu governor Ferdinand Waititu, EALA MP Kanini Kega and Basic Education Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang were present.