Nancy Odindo, a TUKO.co.ke journalist, has over four years of experience covering Kenyan politics, news, and features for digital and print media.

: Panic gripped Embakasi Girls Secondary School in Embakasi South Constituency on Sunday, July 7, after a fire broke out within the school compound.

The blaze, which was seen on the roof of the school's dormitory, sent students scrambling out of classrooms as thick smoke rose into the sky.

The incident caused widespread fear among the learners, who gathered outside and watched anxiously as the fire spread.

Teams from the Nairobi Fire Brigade, the Kenya Red Cross Action Team, and the local Community-Based Response Team rushed to the scene, coordinating efforts to ensure the safety of students and staff.

"A fire has broken out at Embakasi Girls in Mukuru, affecting one of the dormitories. Firefighting efforts are currently underway," KRCAT stated.

In another update, the Kenya Red Cross stated that "the Nairobi City Fire has successfully contained the inferno."

Further updates on the cause of the fire and the extent of the damage are expected as the situation develops.

The school has not released an official statement regarding the extent of the damage.

After the incident, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino revealed that significant damage had been caused to school property, disrupting the learning environment.

In his message of support, Owino extended his sympathies to the students, teachers, staff, and families affected by the incident, assuring them of solidarity during this difficult time.

He emphasised the importance of unity and collective support as the school community begins its journey toward recovery and rebuilding.

“Tragedies like this remind us of the strength found in unity and support,” he noted.

The incident has sparked prayers from Kenyans across the country pleading for their protection amid the tragedy.

Hannah Symon

"God, please protect the children there."

Mercy Muriuki

"Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, protect all girls, in Jesus' mighty name. AMEN 🙏🙏🙏."

Divinah Mose

"Poleni sana. Let's remember our girls in prayers and hope that there are no deaths."

Mavunga Godfrey

"Busy installing 'imported' rubbish bins, which will hardly ever be put to use, instead of having an emergency fire response team to curb such incidents."

@hamidahcourtier

"Let's hope the girls are safe."

Sharoh Kenyatta

"Hope everyone is safe, and also, you might as well find the cause of the fire and implement changes."

In other news, six students from Bukhalalire High School were injured after a fire broke out in a dormitory housing about 200 learners.

Four of the students, initially in critical condition, were transferred from Khunyangu District Hospital to Busia County Referral Hospital for specialised care.

Butula Sub-County Director of Education John Kemei announced the temporary closure of the school to allow investigations. The decision was made after consultations with the school’s Board of Management.

Source: TUKO.co.ke