President William Ruto has announced a three-day mourning for 17 children who perished in a dormitory fire at Hillside Endarasha Primary School in Nyeri County.
In a Presidential Proclamation dated September 6, 2024, Ruto revealed that during this period of national mourning, the Kenyan and East African Community (EAC) flags will be flown at half mast.
“During this period of national mourning, the Flag of the Republic of Kenya and that of the East African Community (EAC) shall be flown at half-mast at State House, all Kenyan Diplomatic Missions, Public Buildings, Public Grounds, all Military Bases, Posts, Stations, all Naval Vessels of the Republic of Kenya, and throughout the entire territory of the Republic of Kenya, from dawn Monday, September 9, 2024 until sunset on Wednesday, September 11, 2024,” the proclamation reads in part.
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Wishing the 14 who were injured a quick recovery, he sympathized with those who might have to live with the memories of the inferno.
“We also extend the sympathy and commiserations of the entire nation to those young ones who survived the blaze but who will now bear lifelong physical and psychological scars. I am informed that 14 boys sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment in various hospitals. We wish them a quick and full recovery, and our thoughts and prayers are with them and their families,” he said.
He also assured the affected families of the government’s support during these dark days when every person both in Kenya and outside continues to mourn the tragic deaths.
Ruto called on the entire country to ensure accountability in all schools and take every action to safeguard the lives of school-going children.
By Vostine Ratemo
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