Source: UGC
On September 8, 2024, a devastating fire broke out at Njia Boys Secondary School in Maua, Meru County, destroying a dormitory and causing significant property damage.
The blaze, which occurred just days after schools reopened for the third term on August 26, has added to a worrying trend of fires at Kenyan schools this year.
The fire began in the dormitory, which housed numerous students. The exact extent of the damage is still being assessed, but early reports suggest that valuable property was lost in the inferno.
Efforts to control the flames were visibly challenging. School staff and local residents attempted to put out the fire using buckets of water, but their efforts were not sufficient to quell the blaze. Police officers at the scene were seen directing these efforts as the fire continued to rage.
Fortunately, there have been no reports of injuries or fatalities associated with this incident. The authorities have yet to determine the cause of the fire, and an investigation is currently underway. This incident is particularly alarming given the recent spate of similar events in schools across Kenya.
The fire at Njia Boys Secondary School is part of a broader pattern of school fires that have been occurring throughout the country. In recent months, several schools have experienced similar tragedies, raising concerns about the safety and security of educational institutions.
The government and educational authorities have been called upon to address these issues and improve school infrastructure to prevent future incidents.
In a related incident, a fire at Hillside Endarasha Academy in Nyeri County tragically resulted in the deaths of 21 students. The fire at this academy, which housed 156 students, has left 48 students unaccounted for.
Survivors reported that the blaze was triggered by an electrical fault, specifically a bulb explosion that ignited the beds. This tragic event has prompted President William Ruto to call for a thorough investigation to hold those responsible accountable and to ensure such incidents do not recur.
The recent fires at schools have sparked widespread concern among parents and the general public. Many are questioning the adequacy of existing fire safety measures and the overall readiness of schools to handle emergencies.
Social media reactions have highlighted the growing anxiety among Kenyans about the safety of their children in school environments. Some commentators have criticized the lack of immediate response measures, such as shutting off the electricity supply during a fire.
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