Kenya has faced several tragic incidents of school fires over the past few decades, leading to the loss of many young lives. These incidents highlight the urgent need for enhanced safety measures, proper infrastructure, and stricter regulations to prevent such disasters in the future. This report summarizes some of the deadliest school fires in Kenya’s history.

1. Hillside Endarasha Academy (2024),In one of the most recent tragedies, a fire broke out at Hillside Endarasha Academy in 2024, leading to the deaths of 17 pupils. The incident sent shockwaves throughout the country, raising concerns about the safety measures in boarding schools. The cause of the fire has yet to be officially determined, but preliminary investigations suggested possible electrical faults or arson.

2. Moi Girls High School (2017), In 2017, Moi Girls High School in Nairobi suffered a catastrophic fire that claimed the lives of 8 students. The fire broke out in a dormitory, and the ensuing chaos revealed gaps in the school’s emergency preparedness. The tragedy prompted national outcry and demands for improved safety standards in learning institutions across the country.

3. Asumbi Girls Boarding Primary School (2012), In 2012, Asumbi Girls Boarding Primary School experienced a deadly fire, resulting in the deaths of 8 pupils. The incident underscored the vulnerability of young children in emergencies and emphasized the importance of having trained personnel and robust evacuation plans in place in primary schools.

4. Endarasha Boys Secondary School (2010), A fire at Endarasha Boys Secondary School in 2010 claimed the lives of 2 students. While less deadly than some other incidents, this fire was part of a pattern that highlighted systemic issues in school fire safety. It served as a wake-up call for both local authorities and school administrations to take preventive measures more seriously.

5. Kyanguli Secondary School (2001), The Kyanguli Secondary School fire in 2001 remains one of the deadliest school fires in Kenya’s history. A devastating blaze swept through the school, resulting in the deaths of 67 boys. This incident shocked the nation and revealed significant lapses in safety protocols. Investigations later revealed that the fire was deliberately started by two students. This tragic event led to discussions on arson prevention, student counseling, and the implementation of fire safety guidelines.

6. Nyeri High School (1999),Nyeri High School experienced a tragic fire in 1999, resulting in the deaths of 4 students. Although smaller in scale than the Kyanguli fire, it nonetheless raised alarm about the safety standards in Kenyan schools. The incident prompted investigations and calls for improvements in safety and infrastructure.

7. Bombolulu Girls Secondary School (1998), In 1998, Bombolulu Girls Secondary School was the scene of a horrific fire that resulted in the deaths of 6 students. The fire was reportedly caused by an electrical fault, exposing the poor electrical wiring and lack of fire safety precautions in many schools. The government responded with promises of reforms, but as subsequent fires have shown, many challenges remain.

8. St. Kizito Secondary School, Tigania (Meru) (1991), In 1991, a fire at St. Kizito Secondary School in Tigania, Meru, claimed the lives of 19 girls. This incident, combined with reports of other forms of violence, exposed the dangerous conditions in some of Kenya’s schools, especially those in remote areas. This led to public outrage and calls for justice, prompting reforms in school safety and student rights.