Utumishi Girls High School in Gilgil is holding a special prayer service today as it continues to recover from the tragic dormitory fire on May 28 that resulted in the deaths of 16 students.
The event gathers students, teachers, and the wider school community to offer spiritual support, give thanks, and pray especially for the 2026 Form Four candidates preparing for their national exams.
Principal Rufina Nkonge highlighted the significance of the prayer day, noting the school’s phased reopening since July 2 after weeks of closure following the fire. She expressed gratitude for the progress made in resuming normal learning activities.
“Classes are ongoing, and we have seen about 92 percent of our girls return to school. We are thankful to God for this recovery,” Nkonge said.
She also acknowledged the crucial role of psychosocial support services provided to help students cope with the trauma caused by the incident. “The girls were deeply affected, but with counselling and support, we have managed to settle back into learning,” she added.
The principal extended thanks to parents, the school’s sponsor, and its patron, Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat, who has been actively supporting the school during this difficult period. Lagat is among the guests attending the prayer service.
Following the fire, the school prioritized the safe return of students by initiating trauma counselling and enhancing security measures. Form Four students were the first to resume classes as part of the phased reopening plan.
Legal Proceedings for Minors Involved
In related developments, the High Court in Nairobi has ordered that eight students facing 16 counts of murder linked to the fire be referred to as "subject minors" due to their age. The directive was issued by Justice Diana Kavedza during proceedings at Kibera High Court, emphasizing the need to apply legal safeguards for children in conflict with the law.
The identities of these minors are to remain confidential throughout the case, with pre-bail reports scheduled before the next hearing on September 22, 2026. All the minors have pleaded not guilty to the charges.
