Former Nairobi governor Mike Sonko visited students injured in the Utumishi Girls dormitory fire who are currently receiving treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital.The tragic incident led to the death of 16 students, making it one of the most serious school fires in Kenya in recent years.

During his visit, Sonko offered support to the affected families by donating food supplies, essential items, fruits, and financial assistance to help ease their burden as they care for the injured learners.

He also expressed condolences to families who lost their children and encouraged Kenyans to remain united in supporting those affected while praying for the recovery of the survivors.

Among the injured students named were Sonia Wangari, Joan Njeri, Nicole Naisula, Mukomah, Beverly Gesare, June Kogei Kimau, Babra Jeptoo, and Mellisah Mokeira Birongo.

Sonko commended medical staff for their efforts but stressed that recovery will require joint support from the government, well-wishers, and the wider community.At the same time, he raised serious concerns about safety standards at the school.

He questioned whether proper emergency exits and evacuation systems were in place, arguing that functional safety measures could have saved lives regardless of the cause of the fire.

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba confirmed that the fire was an act of arson, with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations questioning eight students as persons of interest.

While supporting the investigation, Sonko urged authorities to also examine possible negligence by the school management, especially regarding student safety measures.

He insisted that accountability must go beyond identifying those who started the fire to include those responsible for ensuring safe living conditions in schools.