Rachel Ruto Leads Emotional National Tribute At Gilgil Stadium As Kenya Mourns Utumishi Girls Fire Victims
News Updated: 12 June 2026 20:20 EAT
First Lady Mama Rachel Ruto joined the families, friends, teachers, and the entire Utumishi Girls Academy community in Gilgil for the Requiem Mass of the 16 girls who tragically lost their lives
The requiem mass for students of Utumishi Girls Academy was held at Gilgil Stadium in Nakuru County, bringing together national leaders, families, and members of the public in a solemn ceremony dedicated to remembering the lives lost in the dormitory fire.
First Lady Rachel Ruto conveyed condolences to bereaved families, framing the national mourning as a shared burden between the government and affected parents. She emphasized unity in grief and support for those who lost children in the tragedy.
“I bring you heartfelt condolences from His Excellency President William Samoei Ruto, whose speech will be read shortly. He joins the nation in mourning this profound loss. Kenya mourns with you, weeps with you, and Kenya stands with you. Our daughters left home to learn, to grow, and to prepare for bright futures. They embraced life with enthusiasm, built friendships, and created memories that will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew them.”
The First Lady relayed condolences from the Head of State, highlighting national solidarity with families and acknowledging the aspirations the students carried before the tragedy struck.
“And in this difficult moment, scripture reminds us in Philippians 4:7 that the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Fellow Kenyans, today we remember not a statistic but 16 unique and precious daughters of Kenya. Let us all rise and take a minute to honor them. I would request that we all stand and honor these daughters. Thank you. We may be seated.”
The service included a collective moment of remembrance, where the lives of the students were honoured individually rather than as numbers, reflecting the emotional weight carried by families and the nation.
“As we mentioned their names today, we are reminded that each one of them carried dreams and aspirations. Among them were future doctors, future clergy, teachers, engineers, scientists, entrepreneurs, mothers, leaders, and servants of our nation. There are moments that stop a nation in its tracks, moments that remind us that beyond our differences, beyond our politics, beyond our daily pursuits, we are one people. This is one of those moments.”
The address highlighted the aspirations of the students, portraying them as future contributors to society whose potential was cut short by the tragedy.
“To the students who have lost friends, I know many of you are carrying questions that have no easy answers. Grieve freely, learn, lean on one another, and remember that you do not walk this journey alone. To the teachers and school community, thank you for the care, guidance, and love you gave these children. All of us share your grief.”
Attention was also directed toward surviving students and school staff, acknowledging their emotional trauma and encouraging communal healing within the school environment.
“In moments such as this, when sorrow feels overwhelming and the road ahead seems uncertain, God reminds us in Isaiah 41:10, 'Fear not, for I am with you. Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you.' May this promise be a source of courage and comfort to every student, teacher, and family gathered here today.”
Scriptural reassurance was a central part of the message, offering spiritual comfort to grieving families and reinforcing themes of resilience and divine presence.
“And to our nation, let this moment remind us of our collective responsibility to protect, nurture, and safeguard every child entrusted to our care. Our children are not only the future of Kenya, they are the present. They are our greatest treasure. Their safety, well-being, and dignity must remain at the center of everything we do.”
The address called for national reflection on child safety, especially within boarding schools, following repeated incidents of school fires across the country.
“To the families gathered here today, the days ahead may bring many emotions and memories. Yet I pray that alongside your sorrow, you will also find comfort in remembering the love, laughter, and happiness your daughters brought into your lives. As scripture reminds us in Psalms 34:18, 'The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.' May you find comfort in His presence and strength in His unfailing love.”
Families were directly addressed with messages of comfort, acknowledging the emotional and spiritual challenges that follow such a sudden loss.
“And as you carry the weight of grief in the days and weeks ahead, may you also find reassurance in the words of First Peter 5:7, 'Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.' The Lord sees every tear, hears every prayer, and walks beside you through every moment of sorrow.”
Further spiritual encouragement emphasized enduring faith and divine care as families navigate bereavement.
“May God hold you close in your sorrow, and strengthen you in your weakness. May He grant peace where there is pain, comfort where there is grief, and hope where there is heartbreak. Though these young lives were taken too soon, their light will continue to shine through the love they shared, the lives they touched, and the memories they leave behind.”
The message concluded with prayers for peace and healing, underscoring the lasting memory of the students and their impact on those around them.
“As a nation, let us honor them not only with our tears, but with our commitment to cherish, protect, and nurture every child entrusted to our care. May the souls of our beloved daughters rest in eternal peace, and may their memory forever remain a blessing to their family, their school, and to our great nation, Kenya. May the Lord comfort us. May the Lord bless you and may the Lord be with all of us. Baraka.”
The closing segment called for national responsibility and collective mourning, ending the service on a reflective and prayerful note.
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FELIX MAKONA
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