Utumishi Girls’ Academy’s fire tragedy: Rachel Ruto, Mudavadi join Kenyans in mourning after deaths of 16 students
By Ndiritu Wanjiru, May 28, 2026First Lady Rachel Ruto and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi have joined Kenyans in mourning the 16 students who lost their lives, with 71 of 79 injured students reportedly discharged following a tragic dormitory fire at Utumishi Girls’ Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County.
In her message of condolence on his X account on Thursday, May 28, 2026, Rachel Ruto described the incident as a heartbreaking tragedy that has robbed the nation of young learners with bright futures and who had great promise.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of young lives following the dormitory fire at Utumishi Girls Academy. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families, friends, teachers, and the entire school community during this painful time,” Rachel said.
The first lady has prayed for God’s comfort, strength, and peace for all those affected by the tragedy, while also wishing a quick recovery to the injured students receiving treatment.
“The loss of learners with bright futures and great promise is a heartbreaking tragedy for the entire nation,” she added.
On the other hand, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has also conveyed his condolences to the families, staff, and the entire Utumishi Girls Academy fraternity following the devastation. Mudavadi has also wished a speedy recovery to the injured learners who are continuing to receive treatment.
“This is a deeply painful moment for the nation, and my thoughts and prayers are with all those affected, especially the families grieving the loss of their loved ones and those with children currently receiving treatment in the hospital,” Mudavadi stated.
The prime cabinet secretary has further noted that rescue and emergency response teams were continuing with their work, with focus now shifting towards supporting affected families, ensuring the injured receive the best possible medical care, and establishing the circumstances surrounding the fire.
Mudavadi further prayed for strength for the bereaved families, healing for the injured and comfort for the entire school community during the difficult period.
The tragedy has triggered an outpouring of grief across the country, with leaders and Kenyans continuing to send messages of condolence and solidarity to the affected families as the government commits to a thorough investigation into the cause of the fire.