Kenya National Mourning After School Fire Tragedy

In a heartbreaking incident in Kenya's Nieri County, a horrific dormitory fire has led to the deaths of at least 17 children aged between 9 and 13. The fire broke out overnight in a dormitory housing 156 boys, leaving many trapped while they slept. In response, President William Ruto declared three days of national mourning and promised a thorough investigation into the cause of the disaster. Efforts to rescue survivors saw over 2,000 community members rush to the scene, showing immense solidarity amidst tragedy. Sadly, 70 children remain unaccounted for, with officials suggesting they might have sought refuge elsewhere or been taken home by parents after news of the blaze spread. The government has appealed to the community for help in locating these children. The president assured that those responsible for the fire would be held accountable, highlighting ongoing concerns regarding fire safety in Kenyan schools. Such incidents have been alarmingly common in recent years, often attributed to poor safety standards and overcrowding. As investigations commence, families are left grappling with loss and uncertainty while authorities seek answers regarding the underlying causes of this devastating tragedy.