Sameta Boys Senior School Engulfed in Fire, Kisii County

By Yvonne Jeptarus 

A fierce fire broke out at Sameta Boys Senior School in Kisii County early Monday morning, destroying one dormitory and leaving hundreds of students displaced.

The blaze started around 2 a.m. while students were asleep, according to school Principal James Otieno. “We heard screams and rushed to find the dormitory in flames. Thankfully, all learners were evacuated in time,” he said.

Emergency services from Kisii Town arrived promptly, but the dormitory was already gutted. No casualties have been reported, though four students sustained minor injuries from a stampede and are receiving treatment at a local health facility.

Preliminary reports suggest the fire may have been caused by an electrical fault, but county police commander Agnes Muthoni stated that a full investigation is underway. “We cannot rule out arson at this stage,” she added.

The school has suspended classes indefinitely. The Kenya Red Cross is on-site providing bedding, food, and counseling to affected students. Parents have been requested to collect their sons as the school arranges temporary accommodation.

This incident adds to a worrying trend of school fires in the country, prompting renewed calls for enhanced safety measures in learning institutions.