Over 85 students affected after JKUAT hostel goes up in flames, three hospitalised
By Lucy Mumbi |
However, the cause of the fire remains unclear, but investigations are underway, led by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations in Juja.
A total of 88 students were affected by the fire incident that broke out at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) in Juja early Tuesday morning.
The fire, which began at around 4 am on December 10, 2024, engulfed the second floor of Hall 5, one of the students’ hostels, the university has confirmed.
Keep reading
- JKUAT, KeMU among 16 institutions banned from offering nutrition courses
- 50 households affected as fire ravages Kitui Village in Kamukunji
- Over 20 Eastleigh families left homeless after gas cylinder explosion sparks fire
- Nairobi's firefighting capacity in crisis as 26 fire engines remain grounded due to delays in spare arts
In a statement on Tuesday, Acting Chief Corporate Communications Officer Patrick Munavi said many students lost personal belongings and valuables in the fire, while a few sustained minor injuries.
He noted that those injured were treated and discharged, except for three students who remain under observation at the university hospital.
"It is unfortunate that such an incident occurred. A few students sustained minor injuries and have been treated in hospital and released. Only three are currently under observation in the university hospital,” he said.
He also announced that the university has arranged counselling services and alternative accommodation for the affected students.
However, the cause of the fire remains unclear, but investigations are underway, led by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations in Juja.
"The university community will be updated on the progress of the investigations,” Munavi said.
The institution has reassured stakeholders that the safety and security of students remain a priority.
It noted that security surveillance has been enhanced within and around the campus to ensure students' and staff's well-being.
The institution also noted that university activities and programs will continue as scheduled.
The management also expressed gratitude to the first responders, including JKUAT student fire marshals, Kiambu County firefighters, staff, and the Juja community, for their swift action in containing the fire.
“The safety and well-being of our students are paramount to us,” Munavi said.
Videos circulating on social media had shown thick smoke and a large fireball rising from the hostel’s windows, sparking panic among students and other residents of the university.
The institution’s clinical department had also confirmed that seven students were injured in the incident, with five admitted to JKUAT Hospital and two others receiving treatment at Thika Level 5 Hospital.
Reader comments
Follow Us and Stay Connected!
We'd love for you to join our community and stay updated with our latest stories and updates. Follow us on our social media channels and be part of the conversation!
Let's stay connected and keep the dialogue going!
Latest News For You
