The family of Faith Koskei, a Nakuru woman who died in a road accident while rushing to check on her daughter after the tragic Utumishi Girls Academy fire, has spoken about the painful loss that continues to haunt them.
Faith was travelling to the school following the dormitory blaze that claimed the lives of 16 students and left 79 others injured when the fatal accident occurred. Her daughter, who survived both the fire and the ensuing stampede, has now shared her emotional account of the tragedy.
Recalling the day, the student said she anxiously waited for her parents to arrive, unaware of the devastating turn of events.
“I kept wondering why Mum and Dad had not shown up. It was already afternoon, and I was upset because they knew I was experiencing back pain,” she said.
Although her dormitory escaped the flames, she was caught in the chaos as students scrambled to safety. The traumatic experience was compounded by the news of her mother’s death and the serious injuries sustained by her father, Emmanuel, who survived the crash.
Daughter chooses forgiveness
Despite the immense grief, the student said she harbours no resentment towards those suspected of causing the fire.
“I wanted to be angry and hate them, but my mother always taught me not to hate. Hatred cannot change what happened. No punishment can ever be enough to compensate for losing my mum,” she said.
Her remarks have drawn attention for their message of forgiveness amid overwhelming loss.
Family appeals for support
Faith’s father-in-law, Henry Koskei, described her as the family’s backbone and principal provider. He said her wisdom and guidance were invaluable and that major family decisions were rarely made without consulting her.
The family has appealed to the county government for assistance as they struggle with mounting medical expenses and other financial challenges.
According to Henry, Emmanuel recently underwent a successful surgery but still requires another operation as part of his recovery.
Beyond financial support, the family is demanding accountability and a thorough investigation into the fire, urging authorities to strengthen safety measures in schools to prevent similar tragedies.
Public sympathy pours in
Many Kenyans expressed their condolences online, with some questioning how those responsible for the fire could have allegedly planned such an act without considering the consequences.
Also Read: Alliance High School Sends Students Home Following Early Morning Fire
Others mourned both the students who lost their lives and the indirect victims, including Faith, whose death added another layer of heartbreak to an already devastating tragedy.
The Utumishi Girls fire continues to leave a deep mark on affected families, many of whom are still grappling with grief, unanswered questions and the long road to recovery.
