A memorial service for 16 students from Utumishi Girls who lost their lives in a tragic school fire last month is being held at Gilgil Stadium in Kenya.

The ceremony has drawn hundreds of mourners, including bereaved families, government leaders, fellow students, and members of the public who have gathered to honour the young lives lost in the disaster.The event is being led by First Lady Rachel Ruto and attended by senior government officials, among them Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba.The tragedy shocked the country and renewed public concern about safety standards in schools and other learning institutions.During the emotional gathering, a student identified as Cynthia paid tribute to her classmates, sharing memories and words of encouragement.

She also wished a quick recovery to students who are still receiving treatment following the incident and urged fellow learners to remain united and strong during the difficult period.

According to organisers, the memorial service will continue before the bodies of 15 of the victims are formally released to their families to allow burial preparations to proceed.One of the students had already been buried earlier in Kwale County after her body was released ahead of the ceremony.

The event serves both as a moment of national mourning and as a reminder of the need to strengthen fire prevention and emergency response measures in schools across Kenya.