PRESS STATEMENT : TRAGIC FIRE INCIDENT AT HILLSIDE ENDARASHA ACADEMY IN NYERI

The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) expresses deep sorrow and extends heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of the students who tragically lost their lives in the dormitory fire at Hillside Endarasha Academy, Nyeri County. We also convey our prayers for the speedy recovery of the students who have sustained severe burn injuries. This incident is a critical reminder of the need to prioritize the safety and welfare of our children at all times. 

Kenya has a legal and moral obligation to protect the rights of every child, as enshrined in Article 53 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010, which guarantees every child the right to education, safety, and protection from all forms of harm. Additionally, the Basic Education Act, the Children's Act, and the Safety Standards Manual for Schools set out stringent safety and protection measures that all educational institutions must adhere to. 

The initial reports indicating that the dormitory was overcrowded, in violation of the safety standards, are deeply concerning. These reports raise serious questions about the level of compliance by the school management and the oversight responsibilities of the relevant educational authorities. 

The Commission calls for an immediate and thorough inquiry into the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident. It is imperative to establish whether there were any acts of omission or commission by the school's management, education officials, or any other parties responsible for enforcing safety standards. If any parties are found to have neglected their duty of care, swift action must be taken to ensure that justice is served and to prevent such tragedies in the future. 

We urge the Ministry of Education, the Teachers Service Commission, and other relevant authorities to enforce compliance with all safety standards in all schools across the country, including conducting regular safety audits and inspections to ensure that no child is exposed to unnecessary risks while in pursuit of their education. 

As we mourn this tragic loss, we stand in solidarity with the affected families and reiterate our commitment to ensuring that the rights of all children in Kenya are protected and upheld in every setting. 

SIGNED 

THOMAS KOYIER, EBS 

Ag. Chairperson 

Commissioner Thomas Koyier, EBS