Leaders mourn 17 students lost in hillside academy fire

Homicide detectives gather outside Hillside Endarasha Academy admin block as they wait to establish the fire that has left at least 18 pupils dead and 27 seriously injured. [Amos Kiarie, Standard]

In the wake of the tragic fire that claimed the lives of 17 students and left many others severely injured at Hillside Endarasha Academy in Nyeri, leaders and diplomats have expressed their heartfelt condolences.

At the forefront of the sympathies is the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), which has expressed profound sorrow over the devastating loss.

In a statement, the TSC described the event as horrific, noting that it had robbed the young students of their futures.

"The Teachers Service Commission sends its deepest condolences to the parents, friends, teachers, and the entire community of Hillside Endarasha Academy in Nyeri County," the statement read.

The commission also urged the school’s teachers to fully cooperate with the multi-agency teams working to manage the aftermath of the disaster.

Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa also extended her condolences, calling the incident heartbreaking. 

"On behalf of myself and the Ministry of Health, I offer our heartfelt condolences during this incredibly difficult time. You are in our thoughts and prayers as you navigate this period of grief and loss," Barasa said in her statement.

The U.S. Embassy in Kenya likewise offered its sympathies to the affected families, stating: "Our deepest condolences to those who lost loved ones in the tragic dormitory fire at Hillside Private Mixed Primary School. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time."

Leading the nation in mourning, President William Ruto has declared three days of national mourning in honor of the victims.