A dawn fire has destroyed a dormitory at Malava Boys High School in Kakamega County, leaving 189 students without shelter. The incident occurred at around 5 a.m. on Friday, October 3, when learners were attending their early morning studies.
Firefighters from Kakamega County responded swiftly, managing to contain the flames before they spread to neighboring dormitories and classrooms. Authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported, as all students were safely in class when the blaze began.
However, the affected learners lost virtually all their personal belongings, including school uniforms, books, bedding, and other essentials. The school administration, alongside county education officials, is now working to provide immediate support as investigations into the cause of the fire continue.
Police have also launched a probe to determine whether the inferno was accidental or linked to foul play. Recent incidents in other schools have raised concerns over rising cases of fires and unrest within boarding institutions.
Just last month, Tulwet Boys High School in Kericho County experienced a similar tragedy when fire consumed one of its main buildings. Around the same time, Kabungut Boys High School in Bomet County was shut down indefinitely after a student strike over food issues. Litein Boys High School also made headlines when students set part of the school ablaze.
The frequency of such incidents has heightened calls for enhanced safety measures, stricter surveillance, and improved student counseling to prevent school unrest.
Education stakeholders in Kakamega County have pledged to work closely with the school administration to restore normalcy at Malava Boys High. Meanwhile, displaced students are expected to be accommodated temporarily as rebuilding plans get underway.
The incident serves as a reminder of the urgent need for stronger fire safety systems and preventive strategies in schools across the country.
