David Kinyua, the owner of Hillside Endarasha Academy, has spoken publicly for the first time since the tragic fire that claimed the lives of 21 students.
In an interview with NTV, Kinyua shared his deep sorrow, saying that he is grieving alongside the parents who lost their children.
He explained how the school fire tragedy has shaken him personally, as he had been with the students for many years.
“I am a parent, and I’ve been with those children for years. We had gotten used to one another. I am really saddened because I have also lost so many children.” A heartbroken Kinyua said.
“I am asking for your prayers. Pray for us so we can heal faster,”
After the fire, the school was temporarily closed while investigations were carried out.
Kinyua shared that they are planning to reopen the school after the DCI recently handed the school back to him. And he is now focusing on making improvements.
One of the major changes is relocating the boys’ dormitory to a different part of the school to avoid triggering traumatic memories for the returning students.
What will Returning Students Buy?
To support the affected students, Kinyua assured parents that they would not need to buy any new items for their children.
He said that well-wishers have generously stepped in to provide everything the students lost in the fire.
This includes items like mattresses, uniforms, shoes, and other essentials.
Kinyua also said that a prayer meeting has been scheduled for Monday, where parents, teachers, church leaders, and education officials will gather to pray for healing and discuss the way forward.
Kinyua expressed his gratitude to the Kenya Red Cross for their quick intervention, providing counseling services to students, staff, and families affected by the incident.
He also thanked the DCI for taking charge of the investigation and said they are all eagerly waiting for the final report.
The fire, which occurred on September 6, left the community devastated. It took the lives of 21 students, and there was initial confusion about the total number of children involved.
Kinyua noted that while the loss is overwhelming, the support from the public has been encouraging. Even President William Ruto stepped in, donating Ksh2 million to help those impacted by the tragedy, after initial criticism for offering food supplies.
By Vivian K.