17 pupils have been burnt to death and beyond recognition by a fire at Hillside Endarasha Primary, in Nyeri County, Kenya.

The fire engulfed the dormitory at around midnight on September 6, 2024, as the pupils slept.

Police have reported that the cause of the fire is still being investigated, and at least 13 pupils have also been seriously injured. The number of dead is expected to rise because of how serious the burns are.

President William Ruto has commiserated with all those who have lost their loved ones and called upon authorities to investigate the incident fully.

“I call upon authorities to thoroughly investigate this horrific incident and hold those responsible to account,” said Ruto.

According to authorities, the Kenyan Red Cross is currently offering psychological support to the injured pupils with the school being condoned off.