A memorial service is scheduled for today, June 12, 2026, in honour of the 16 girls who tragically lost their lives in the Utumishi Academy school fire. The requiem mass will be held at Gilgil Stadium, where a large gathering of mourners is expected, including government officials, religious leaders, families, and members of the public. The service will offer an opportunity for the nation to pay tribute and bid farewell to the young victims.
Earlier on Friday morning, fifteen hearses were stationed at the Naivasha Funeral Home to transport the bodies to the venue. After the memorial service, the remains will be handed over to the families for burial arrangements. The mood surrounding the event remains sombre, with grief continuing to weigh heavily on the school community and the bereaved families as they prepare to lay their loved ones to rest.
One of the victims has already been buried in Kwale County, after her body was released earlier, making her the first among the 16 girls to be laid to rest. The tragic incident sent shockwaves across the country, reigniting concerns over fire safety in schools. It has prompted renewed calls for stricter enforcement of safety regulations in learning institutions to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
