A fire that erupted late at night at Matungulu Boys Secondary School in Kangundo, Machakos County, resulted in multiple student injuries and hospitalizations at Kangundo Level 4 Hospital, sparking concerns about the institution’s ongoing operations and recovery following the destructive incident.
Initial reports indicate that a minimum of 15 students suffered injuries during the event, which took place in the early morning hours of Monday, January 26, 2026, compelling students to evacuate their dormitories as the flames advanced quickly.
Three dormitories were completely destroyed by the fire, reducing beds, books, bedding, and other personal belongings of over 300 students to ashes, consequently leaving numerous students without necessary essentials.
The origin of the fire remains undetermined, yet the significant damage to critical infrastructure and dormitories, which constitute a major portion of the school’s facilities, has intensified worry among parents and education authorities regarding the institution’s capacity to maintain educational services.
Multiple parents voiced their anger and frustration regarding the incident, with some advocating for enhanced student discipline amid growing concerns.
Joash Mulwa, a parent living near the institution, denounced the destruction, stating, “We are dissatisfied with what these students have done. The substantial losses incurred are evident.” Mulwa further encouraged all parents to communicate with their children, asserting, “This practice of setting schools ablaze must cease,” he concluded.
Sharing similar concerns, Sila Mutiso, the Chairperson of the Parents Association in Machakos County, characterized the extent of destruction as extensive, noting that the costs would undoubtedly impose financial burdens on parents.
“The damage here amounts to billions, and these costs will ultimately be borne by the parents,” Mutiso stated, calling upon students to demonstrate proper discipline.
Furthermore, Mutiso requested a more thorough examination of the difficulties confronting the school, highlighting deteriorating academic achievement. “Educational standards at Kangundo have been declining for several years, and as Parents’ Association leader, we must reassess this situation,” lamented Mutiso. “What is visible here merely scratches the surface,” he concluded.
Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have subsequently reached the school to inspect the location and gather evidence as part of investigations to ascertain the fire’s cause.