Nairobi Kenya — A number of Leaders have condoled with the families of the 17 students who were killed in a dormitory fire at the Hillside Academy in Nyeri.
While expressing his condolences, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua asked schools to enforce safety and security measures as outlined by the Ministry of Education and other agencies to avert such incidences.
"We join the families, the school and the rest of the country in mourning these young departed souls. We pray for a quick recovery of the survivors of this inferno. May God grant the families the fortitude to bear the loss," he said.
Opposition leader Raila Odinga also expressed his condolences.
"My heartfelt condolences go out to the families, friends, and school fraternity who've lost loved ones in the devastating fire tragedy. May God grant them all strength during these difficult moments, and a swift recovery for those injured," he stated.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi assured of government support indicating that it seek to uncover the root cause of the incident.
"In this time of sorrow may the Lord help the bereaved families find strength and comfort during this difficult period. I wish quick recovery for those injured and recuperating at the hospital," he said.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula also called for thorough investigations into the incident.
"Our prayers are with the families the institution and the rest of the nation. May the young departed souls rest in Peace," he said.
Police Spokeswoman Resila Onyango said there are fears more bodies may be recovered at the scene.
"We lost 16 pupils who were burnt beyond recognition and there is another one who died while being taken to hospital," the Spokeswoman said.
A search was underway Friday morning following fears of more bodies in the rubble after some were reported missing.
According to Nyeri County Police Commander Benjamin Rotich , the fire broke out around midnight when most of the students were asleep.
The school has a population of 824 pupils, many of whom were affected by the sudden and devastating incident.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene to contain the fire, but the flames spread quickly, making it difficult to rescue all the students.
