Endarasha fire tragedy: 19 parents yet to identify bodies of their children

By Peter Ochieng

Government Spokesman Isaac Mwaura on Monday issued an update related to the tragic fire incident at the Endarasha Hillside Academy in Kieni, Nyeri County which killed 21 learners last week.

Mwaura in a press statement seen by Nairobi Review said all the learners have been accounted for, hours after some parents raised concerns over their missing children.

He said the fire burnt down a boys’ dormitory killing 19 boys, before two more succumbed while receiving treatment.

“There were 330 borders, 166 girls and 164 boys. All girls are at home with their parents while all the 164 boys have been accounted for,” said Mwaura. That means 143 boys are with their parents, after their 21 colleagues died in the horrific incident.

However, Mwaura said parents of the 19 learners whose bodies were recovered at the scene, are yet to identify them.

“The parents of the 19 learners who succumbed are yet to identify their children. They will proceed to Naromoru for autopsy and processing. They will also receive mental health and psychosocial support,” added the former nominated Senator.

“The Government continues to extend heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones. To the children now nursing injuries in various hospitals, those who have witnessed this horrific incident and bear psychological scars, we offer our deepest sympathies and wish them a speedy recovery.”

His statement also addressed incidents of fire at two schools in the country.

"At 1930hrs on Saturday night, a fire broke out at Isiolo Girls High School during the entertainment session. There were no fatalities recorded. Unfortunately, during the stampede, 3 students suffered minor injuries but are currently stable after receiving medical attention,” said Mwaura.

“At around 0800hrs while students were in the assembly, at Bukhalarire Secondary in Busia County a fire broke out in one of the dormitories that was housing 162 students. We thank God that no casualty has been reported,” he added.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Mwaura said, has commenced an investigation into the cause of the fire.