The founder of Utumishi Girls Academy, Edward Mbugua, has explained the emotional and personal story behind the naming of the dormitory that was recently destroyed in a tragic fire incident at the institution.

Speaking on Friday, June 12, 2026, at Gilgil Stadium during a Requiem Mass for the 15 girls who lost their lives in the tragic Utumishi Academy dormitory fire that took place last month, Mbugua said the dormitory was named in honour of his daughter, Meline Waithera, who died in a road accident in Nairobi in June 2021.

His remarks come amid public interest and questions surrounding the origins of the building, which was later engulfed in a fire that claimed the lives of 16 students and shocked the nation.

Emotional tribute behind the name

Mbugua revealed that after the death of his daughter, friends, family members, and well-wishers contributed towards her funeral arrangements.

He noted that following the burial, there were surplus funds from the contributions, which he decided to redirect towards a charitable cause in her memory.

“There were questions on how the dormitory, which was set on fire, was named after my daughter. Yes, it is true; it was named after her. What happened is that in June of 2021, my daughter was involved in a road accident in Nairobi, and she died at the scene. My friends and other people contributed to her funeral. After the funeral, I had excess money, and I told my family this money is going towards another cause; we are not going to use the money,” Mbugua said.

According to him, the decision was made collectively to ensure the funds would create a lasting legacy in honour of his late daughter.

Ksh10 million contribution to school project

The founder disclosed that he personally donated Ksh10 million towards the construction of the dormitory during a fundraising initiative.

He said part of the money came from his own contribution, while another portion originated from the surplus funds raised during his daughter’s funeral.

He added that the initiative was meant to transform personal grief into a meaningful contribution to education and the welfare of students.

Dormitory named in memory of his daughter

Mbugua confirmed that the dormitory was named after his late daughter as a tribute to her memory, describing it as a gesture of remembrance and honour.

He said the decision was intended to keep her legacy alive within an institution dedicated to nurturing young girls.

The founder maintained that the naming carried deep emotional significance for him and his family.

“So, during the harambee, I donated Ksh10 million, out of which was my contribution, and part of it was the funds which were meant for the funeral of my daughter. I think I have made myself clear, so I think those who have been asking what happened – that is what happened,” he said.

His clarification follows public scrutiny and renewed attention after the dormitory was destroyed in a fire incident that has raised concerns over safety standards in boarding schools.

Authorities have since launched investigations into the cause of the fire, with education and security officials expected to issue further updates.