On September 6, 2024, Kenya witnessed a devastating tragedy when a fire broke out at Hillside Endarasha Academy, leading to the deaths of 21 children.
The incident has shaken the nation, prompting an outpouring of grief and calls for accountability. Authorities have launched investigations into the cause of the fire, and the school’s management has come under intense scrutiny for possible safety lapses.
Hillside Endarasha Academy, which housed over 300 boarding students at the time of the fire, has long been regarded as a reputable institution. However, this incident has raised significant concerns about the safety standards in many of Kenya’s schools.
As investigators continue to probe the cause of the fire, the focus has shifted toward understanding who is behind the management of the school and what measures were—or were not—in place to prevent such a disaster.
Meet the Owners of Hillside Endarasha Academy
Hillside Endarasha Academy is owned by David Kinyua and his wife, Mary Wanjeri, a couple who established the school in Nyeri County 15 years ago.
The Kinyuas have kept a low profile throughout their years of running the institution, avoiding the media spotlight even as their school grew in stature and size.
David Kinyua, a former government employee, was recently questioned for six hours by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) as part of the investigation into the fire. Despite the tragedy, the couple has remained largely out of the public eye, focusing on supporting the families affected by the fire.
Questions have arisen regarding the safety measures in place at the school, with critics pointing to inadequate fire safety protocols.
What We Know So Far About the Hillside Endarasha Academy Fire
- The fire occurred in a boys’ dormitory on September 6, 2024.
- The blaze claimed the lives of 21 students, with several others hospitalized for injuries.
- Over 300 students were boarding at the school, with around 150 boys in the affected dormitory.
- Initial reports indicated challenges in fighting the fire due to inadequate firefighting equipment.
- Investigators have ruled out an electrical fault as the cause of the fire, per a statement from Kenya Power.
- Grilled windows and insufficient emergency exits likely worsened the death toll, as students were trapped inside.
- A multi-agency investigation team is leading the probe into the cause of the fire.
- Unconfirmed reports are suggesting that poor construction materials contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.
- The government has pledged full accountability for anyone found responsible for negligence.
What Caused the Hillside Endarasha Fire?
The exact cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Early reports suggested that an electrical fault might be to blame, but Kenya Power has since ruled out this possibility.
Investigators are exploring other potential causes, including structural issues and the possibility of negligence in safety protocols. While the investigation is ongoing, government officials have assured the public that they will uncover the truth and hold those responsible accountable.
Is Hillside Academy Endarasha a Primary or Secondary School?
Hillside Endarasha Academy is a primary boarding school that caters to both boys and girls.
It has been recognized for providing a strong academic foundation to students, with a large portion of its student population boarding at the school located in the outskirts of Nyeri town, in the former Central province.
Where Is Hillside Academy Endarasha Located?
Hillside Endarasha Academy is located in Kieni West, Nyeri County, Kenya. The school serves students from the surrounding rural communities and has been a key educational institution in the region. Its remote location presented challenges during the firefighting efforts, as emergency services had to source water from several kilometers away