Education Ministry Launches 10-Day Boarding School Safety Audit After Deadly Fire - June 2026

The Kenyan Ministry of Education has initiated a 10-day safety audit for all boarding schools across the country following a recent deadly fire incident at Utumishi Girls Academy. An investigation revealed that seven students allegedly started the blaze while protesting changes made by the school regarding examination dates. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) identified seven girls as the main suspects following CCTV footage analysis, with nine students subsequently arraigned in court. Seven minors are facing serious charges in relation to the dormitory fire that claimed 16 students' lives. Legal experts are discussing how Kenyan law handles such cases involving juveniles accused of grave offenses. Baringo Central MP Joshua Kandie has proposed the employment of psychologists in secondary schools to address rising cases of student indiscipline, while stakeholders are urging mental health services be prioritized following increased unrest in schools.