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Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has promised to provide free VIP hearses and coffins for families of students who died in the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls Academy.
Sonko made the commitment after visiting the school in Gilgil to offer condolences and assess the aftermath of the incident, which left 16 students dead. He was accompanied by Gilgil MP Martha Wangari.
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Speaking outside the school, Sonko said his foundation was prepared to assist bereaved families to ensure the victims receive dignified burials.
He added that his team would work alongside government efforts, stepping in where additional support is needed.
However, he noted that he would first allow state agencies to carry out their responsibilities before intervening.
Sonko also said arrangements could be made to help transport the bodies of the deceased students to different parts of the country for burial, where necessary.
He called on the government to improve safety standards in schools to prevent similar tragedies in the future, stressing that learner safety should be a top priority.
Earlier, Sonko said he had visited Nakuru County Referral Hospital to check on injured students but was informed that they had been transferred to Kenyatta National Hospital in Nairobi. He later planned to visit them there to support their recovery.
He expressed sympathy to the affected families, teachers, and students, urging unity during the difficult moment and praying for quick recovery for the injured and comfort for those bereaved.
Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing, with authorities working to identify victims and determine what led to the incident.
