This archive report was first published on 23 September 2019.
On Monday, a classroom at Precious Talent Academy in Nairobi's Dagoretti area collapsed just minutes after the start of the school day, resulting in the deaths of at least seven children and injuring 64 others.
The wooden structure collapsed, causing soft tissue injuries to the students who were admitted to Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH).
Education Cabinet Secretary George Magoha ordered the school closed for four days, citing the need to ensure the students' safety.
"We have asked the pupils to stay at home for four days as we put everything in check to ensure they are safe," Magoha said.
Rescuers faced difficulty accessing the school due to large crowds gathered nearby.
Government officials confirmed seven fatalities and 57 hospitalizations, with the school's director and residents blaming the government for the poor infrastructure and potential role of a nearby sewerage system in the collapse.
The school's owner, Moses Wainaina, was taken in for questioning by the Directorate of Criminal Investigation.
