I am heartbroken by the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls’ Academy that has taken the lives of 16 young girls and left many others injured.
I join the nation in mourning these children whose lives were cut short so painfully and too soon. To the parents, families, teachers, and fellow students, may God grant you strength, comfort, and peace in this difficult time. May the Lord receive the souls of the departed into His eternal rest, and may perpetual light shine upon them.
As we pray for the injured to heal quickly, we must also confront hard questions about the safety of our children in schools. These repeated tragedies cannot continue to happen while recommendations from past incidents remain unfulfilled.
We owe these children more than grief after disaster. We owe them safe schools, responsible leadership, and urgent action.
I the nation in calling for a thorough and transparent investigation into this incident and full accountability wherever negligence is found.
May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.