Kalonzo proposes nationwide school safety audit amid unrest
By Faith Lagat, June 7, 2026Wiper Patriotic Front leader and former Vice President Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka has called for far-reaching reforms in Kenya’s boarding schools following the dormitory fire at Utumishi Girls Academy that left 16 students dead and several others injured.
In a statement issued on June 6, 2026, Kalonzo said the tragedy highlighted the need for urgent measures to improve safety standards and strengthen accountability within learning institutions across the country.
“No parent should ever receive the devastating news that a child will never come home again,” he said.
Call for nationwide safety audit
Kalonzo proposed a nationwide safety audit of all boarding school dormitories, saying the exercise should be accompanied by strict enforcement measures and penalties for institutions that fail to comply with safety requirements.
He also called for a comprehensive review of boarding school standards, including accommodation, nutrition, safety infrastructure, and student welfare.
According to the former vice president, the reforms should focus on ensuring schools provide secure learning environments while safeguarding the well-being of learners.
The proposals come as investigations continue into the Utumishi Girls Academy fire, one of the deadliest school tragedies in recent years.
Focus on mental health and accountability
The Wiper leader further proposed a fully funded mental health programme targeting learners across the country, noting that many students face challenges that often go unnoticed.
He said schools should have stronger support systems to identify and assist learners experiencing emotional or psychological difficulties.
Kalonzo also called for accountability whenever negligence contributes to incidents that place students’ lives at risk.
“Our children are not statistics. They are our responsibility,” he said.
The remarks add to growing calls from education stakeholders, parents, and leaders for stronger safety measures in boarding schools following the Gilgil tragedy.
Debate on school safety intensifies
The fire has reignited discussions on the state of safety infrastructure in schools, with concerns raised about dormitory standards, emergency preparedness, and student welfare.
Education sector stakeholders have previously advocated for regular inspections, improved emergency response systems, and enhanced counselling services in schools to prevent future tragedies.
Kalonzo’s proposals place emphasis on prevention through regular audits, improved welfare standards, and mental health support for learners.
The former vice president said restoring safety, dignity, and accountability in schools requires practical action and sustained commitment from all stakeholders involved in the education sector.
His intervention comes as families, education officials, and community leaders continue to seek answers following the deaths and injuries caused by the dormitory fire, while discussions on improving safety standards in schools continue across the country.