Schools Urged to Install CCTV and Tighten Safety After Utumishi Academy Tragedy

Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has called on school leaders across the country to urgently strengthen safety systems in learning institutions, including the installation of CCTV cameras and improved dormitory standards, following the recent tragedy at Utumishi Girls Academy.

Speaking in Kericho County during a thanksgiving ceremony at Kipsigis Girls’ High School, Murkomen emphasized that schools must move beyond routine compliance and adopt proactive safety measures to protect learners.

He warned that overcrowded dormitories and poorly planned emergency exits continue to pose serious risks in many institutions, urging boards of management and principals to take immediate corrective action.

“You must ensure dormitories are not congested and that they have proper emergency exits,” he said, stressing the need for stricter adherence to safety guidelines.

The CS further pushed for enhanced surveillance in schools, proposing the installation of CCTV cameras in key areas, alongside dedicated control rooms to help monitor and respond to incidents in real time.

“We need properly installed CCTV cameras covering critical areas, as well as a central control room for effective monitoring and response,” he added.

Murkomen also highlighted the importance of stronger relationships between teachers and students, saying open communication can help uncover early warning signs and prevent crises.

He noted that lessons from the Utumishi Girls Academy incident revealed missed opportunities where student concerns were not adequately acted upon, contributing to the scale of the tragedy.

“When students share information, it should never be ignored. Sometimes those early warnings are the difference between safety and disaster,” he said.

The event was attended by several leaders including Kericho Governor Dr. Eric Mutai, Belgut MP Nelson Koech, Kericho County Commissioner Ali Omar, and Members of County Assembly.