As Kenyans continue to mourn the 16 students who lost their lives in the devastating fire at Utumishi Girls Academy, many have been asking about the story behind the dormitory block where the tragedy occurred — the Meline Waithera Dormitory.

The dormitory was named in honour of the late Meline Waithera Njoroge, the daughter of former Deputy Inspector General of Police Edward Mbugua, who served from 2018 to 2023.

Utumishi Girls Academy, together with Utumishi Boys Academy, was established under the sponsorship of the National Police Service to provide quality and affordable education, particularly for children of police officers serving across the country.

Founder’s Personal Tribute

Edward Mbugua is widely credited with playing a key role in the establishment of Utumishi Girls Academy. As part of the school’s development, one of its dormitory blocks was named after his daughter as a tribute to her memory and legacy.

Meline Waithera died tragically in June 2021 at the age of 25 following a fatal road accident in Nairobi. Reports indicated that she lost her life after being caught between two matatus in a horrific crash.

Her death deeply affected family, friends and colleagues, with many remembering her as a young woman whose life was cut short far too soon.

Memorial Garden Established

In November 2022, a memorial garden was established near the dormitory compound to honour both Meline’s memory and Edward Mbugua’s vision for the institution.

The memorial serves as a lasting reminder of the family’s connection to the school and their contribution to the education sector.

Tragedy Strikes Meline Waithera Dormitory

On May 28, 2026, tragedy struck when a fire broke out at the Meline Waithera Dormitory.

Investigators have since classified the incident as suspected arson. The inferno claimed the lives of 16 students and left approximately 90 others injured, with several sustaining critical injuries.

The incident has sparked nationwide grief and renewed calls for improved school safety measures as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the deadly blaze.

As the country mourns the young lives lost, the name Meline Waithera has once again come into the national spotlight — this time linked to a tragedy that has left an entire nation heartbroken.

May the souls of the departed students rest in eternal peace.