The Federation of Women Lawyers in Kenya (FIDA-Kenya) has called for justice and accountability following the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil that killed 16 students and left 74 seriously injured, reigniting national concerns over safety standards and child protection in Kenyan schools.
In a press statement released on Thursday, FIDA Kenya shared their deep condolences and grief for the unfortunate incident, noting that the death of the young ones in a school is a calamity for the whole country.
According to FIDA, the blaze started quite early on Thursday and the entire school population was thrown into a state of mourning and distress when the emergency response teams arrived at the scene.
Children’s Families and Survivors Traumatized
FIDA, Kenya extended condolences to the families who lost their children and expressed solidarity with the survivors, many of whom are now grappling with trauma, fear, and uncertainty following the incident.
We also offer our heartfelt condolences to those that have lost their loved ones, ” the statement asserted.
The non-profit organanisatio further called for quick delivery of psychosocial support to the injured students, grieving families, and the entire school community.
Request for Independent Research
FIDA-Kenya said it is closely monitoring developments surrounding the tragedy encouraged the officials to lead the way through a rapid, detailed, and independent examination of the reasons behind the fire.
In addition, the organization called for the authorities to be held responsible if any negligence or failure of safety and security measures at the institution is identified during the investigations.
“We urge for a complete uncovering of the truth and full responsibility to be taken if any lapses in safety or security are found, ” the statement closed.
Children’s Protection is of Highest Concern
The group standing up for women’s rights underlined In reality all emergency and recovery measures should give the highest priority to child protection and respect for the child’s personal dignity.
The organization added that the response programs, besides providing timely information and support to the survivors and the affected families, should also be up to the standard of child protection.
Families needing psychosocial support were given the referral to FIDA, Kenya via its toll, free helpline number 0800 720 501.
National Reflection on School Safety
That sad event has made everyone think deeply about how safe our students in boarding schools and other educational centers are.
FIDA, Kenya Chairperson Christine Kungu
Even emphasized the organization’s willingness to uphold the rights and well, being of women and girls in Kenya. The work that they do will be ramped up towards helping those families impacted, as well as the community of Utumishi Girls Academy.