Hillside Endarasha Academy Fire: School Owner Opens Up for the First Time.
David Kinyua, the owner of Hillside Endarasha Academy, has shared his feelings publicly for the first time after the fire that tragically claimed the lives of 21 students. He expressed deep sorrow, stating that he grieves alongside the parents since he too has suffered the loss of the pupils.
During an interview with NTV, Kinyua spoke about the immense impact the incident has had on him. He described the event as something entirely unexpected and personally devastating.
He emphasized that, as a parent who had known these children for years, he had grown accustomed to their presence, making the loss even more heartbreaking. Kinyua further asked for prayers, hoping for emotional healing for everyone involved.
“I am a parent, and I’ve been with those children for years. And we had gotten used to one another. I have been really saddened because I have also lost so many children. I am asking for your prayers. Pray for us so we can heal faster,” he said.
Kinyua shared his future plans for the school now that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has officially returned the premises to him.
He revealed that renovations would begin shortly. To help students avoid emotional trauma, Kinyua explained that they have decided to relocate the boys’ dormitory to a different area within the school compound.
Kinyua announced a prayer meeting with parents scheduled for Monday, where church leaders and education officers would also be in attendance.
Following this meeting, there would be discussions about how to resume classes and allow students to return to school.
Support for Affected Pupils
A committee has been set up to ensure students who lost belongings in the fire receive replacement items. Kinyua reassured parents that the students would return to school as they were, without the need to purchase anything, as numerous well-wishers have stepped forward to offer assistance.
“The pupils will come how they left. They don’t need to buy anything because well-wishers are very ready to support those children,” he added.
Kinyua expressed his gratitude toward the Kenya Red Cross for their timely intervention in providing counseling services to students and others affected by the tragedy.
Additionally, he thanked the DCI for taking charge of the investigations and stated that everyone eagerly awaits the final report on the incident.
The devastating fire at Hillside Endarasha Academy occurred on September 6, resulting in the deaths of 21 students and injuries to several others.
Initial investigations left many questions unanswered, particularly with 70 pupils unaccounted for. The uncertainty led to protests by Kenyans at the school, demanding government transparency.
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However, by September 12, all the missing children had been accounted for in a final report.
President Ruto faced criticism initially for donating maize and beans immediately after the incident. However, on September 15, he responded with a financial donation of Ksh2 million, which helped alleviate some of the concerns.
Hillside Endarasha Academy Fire: School Owner Opens Up for the First Time.
