Grief, tears as last Utumishi Girls fire victim laid to rest in Ruai

Neema Wairimu Murigi, the last student to be laid to rest following the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls' school, was on Wednesday buried at her family home in Nairobi's Ruai area.

Family members, friends, and fellow students gathered to pay their final respects, with many overwhelmed by emotion as they remembered Neema's life and shared cherished memories of their time with her.

Her parents, sisters, and classmates struggled to contain their tears as they honored her memory, bringing to a close another painful chapter in the aftermath of the school fire tragedy.

Neema’s parents remembered their second-born daughter, one of three sisters, as a source of joy, love, and blessings within the family.

They described her as a bright and compassionate young woman whose sudden death had left an irreplaceable void in their lives.

Gabriel Murigi Ngugi, Neema's father, said: “Wwe thank you for the beautiful moments and precious memories we shared with you…”

Her sisters, Stellah and Abby, fought back tears as they delivered emotional farewell messages, recounting cherished memories and the special bond they shared with Neema.

Their tributes were deeply emotional, capturing the depth of their heartbreak and the pain of saying goodbye.

“Neema you were hardworking determined and excellent perfomer,” said Stella.

Abby added: “There are so many memories of you and I will carry forever...”

Students from Utumishi Girls Academy turned out in large numbers to honor their schoolmate and classmate.

Friends and peers, many visibly emotionally drained, shared memories of Neema’s kindness, warmth, and vibrant spirit. A student whose presence touched their lives in so many ways

Tabitha Chepkemoi, Neema's friend, said: “Neema you were more than a friend...more than a sister…”

Wendy Moraa, another friend, added: “You are no longer physically with us but your memories live with us forever…”

Following the requiem service, Neema’s body was escorted to her family home in Ruai for burial, marking the end of a painful chapter for her loved ones.

Her interment comes nearly a month after the devastating fire at Utumishi Girls Academy on May 27, a tragedy that plunged families, classmates, and the wider community into mourning.