By Issa Hussein - Reporter
Kenya, May 31, 2026 - The Mombasa County Government has launched a comprehensive fire safety inspection of all learning institutions following the deadly fire at Utumishi Girls Senior School in Gilgil, Nakuru County, that left 16 students dead and scores injured.
Governor Abdulswamad Sharif Nassir said the countywide exercise will cover both public and private institutions, including primary and secondary schools, colleges, universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) centres.
The inspections will be conducted by the County Fire Department in collaboration with other county agencies to assess fire preparedness, emergency response systems, evacuation procedures, electrical safety standards and compliance with fire safety regulations.
“The county remains committed to the safety, welfare and protection of all residents, particularly children within our schools,” Mr Nassir said.
He added that no institution would be charged for the inspections.
“No fees or inspection charges shall be levied against the institutions during this countywide exercise,” the governor said, urging school heads to cooperate with inspection teams.
The exercise comes in the wake of the Gilgil tragedy, which authorities have linked to arson. Sixteen learners died and 79 others were injured in the blaze. Eight students have since been arrested and are expected to be arraigned in court.
The Mombasa inspections will also include fire safety sensitisation programmes aimed at equipping learners and teachers with skills on fire prevention and emergency response.
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County Executive Committee Member for Transport and Infrastructure Dan Manyala is overseeing the inspection teams.
Mr Nassir said the initiative seeks to safeguard the lives of learners and staff while strengthening disaster preparedness in educational institutions.
Schools will be required to have functional fire extinguishers, audible fire alarms, emergency water systems and clearly marked emergency exits. Dormitories should have at least three outward-opening double doors, including a designated emergency exit.
The county will also enforce Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) regulations prohibiting the sale of petroleum products to minors in a bid to reduce fire risks in schools.
In addition, laboratories, classrooms and staff rooms are expected to have ungrilled windows and outward-opening doors to facilitate swift evacuation during emergencies.
The latest measures come less than two years after the Hillside Endarasha Academy fire in Nyeri County, which claimed 21 lives and prompted renewed calls for stricter enforcement of school safety standards across the country.
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