Magena Boys’ High School in Kenyenya Subcounty has been closed indefinitely after a devastating fire destroyed seven dormitories on Sunday night, leaving hundreds of students without shelter or personal belongings.
According to sources within the school, the blaze broke out shortly after midnight while students were asleep. Form Three and Form Four learners were the first to notice the flames and raised the alarm, prompting a chaotic escape as students fled for safety.
“The fire started in one dormitory and quickly spread, reducing six others to ashes,” said a source. A Form Three student, James Nyabuto, recounted his ordeal: “I woke up and started running away for my safety but lost everything in the inferno except the clothes I was wearing.”
The cries of students drew nearby villagers and police officers from Magena Police Station, who rushed to the scene. However, by the time firefighters from Kisii town arrived at dawn, the flames had already consumed the dormitories, leaving little to salvage.
Parents and pastors streamed into the school in the morning to check on the safety of learners and offer prayers. Inside sources revealed that more than 250 Grade 10 students, who had recently reported to the school, were the most affected, losing uniforms and other personal belongings.
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Speculation over the cause of the fire has emerged, with some students suggesting it may have been linked to frustrations over the school’s poor 2025 KCSE examination results. However, the exact cause remains unconfirmed.
When contacted, Principal David Mbaka declined to comment, referring inquiries to the area Deputy Director of Education and police officers on the ground, who said investigations were still underway.
The incident comes barely a week after parents in Kenyenya Subcounty raised concerns over declining academic performance in several schools, including Magena Boys, Kerongorori, Kenyoro, and Eberege.
Parents had petitioned the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to transfer principals from the affected institutions, citing fears of further unrest if results did not improve.
By Enock Okong’o
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