NAIROBI, Kenya — The government has announced a compensation package of Sh200,000 for each family of the 16 students who died in the Utumishi Girls Academy dormitory fire tragedy, alongside full coverage of medical and funeral expenses.
Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said on Saturday that the support package also extends to the family of a parent who died in a road accident while rushing to the school after learning of the incident.
He added that the state will fully cover medical bills for more than 79 students who were admitted to the hospital following the fire.
“The government continues to stand in solidarity with the families and the entire Utumishi Girls Academy community following the tragic fire incident that claimed the lives of 16 students and 1 parent,” Mwaura said.
Medical and Funeral Support Expanded
According to the statement, the government will cater for all treatment costs for injured students, including those airlifted from St Joseph Hospital to Kenyatta National Hospital for specialised care.
In addition, authorities will handle all funeral-related expenses, including mortuary charges, coffins, transportation of bodies, and costs associated with a requiem mass planned at the school at a later date.
Mwaura dismissed reports suggesting that the government had failed to honour its commitments, insisting that all pledges remain in force and are undergoing administrative and legal processes.
Investigation Into Dormitory Fire Ongoing
The incident occurred on May 28 when a dormitory fire broke out at the school, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. Authorities have linked the tragedy to actions allegedly initiated by some students, who are now in custody as investigations continue.
Families of the victims have since identified the bodies of their loved ones through DNA testing, as they continue to mourn one of the deadliest school fire incidents in recent years.
The government says it is working closely with county authorities and security agencies to ensure accountability while supporting affected families through the recovery and justice process.
