This archive report was first published on 24 September 2019.
On September 24, 2019, tragedy struck Precious Talent Primary School in Nairobi when a two-storey building collapsed, killing seven people, including 13-year-old Emmna Idambo.
Emmna, a bright and responsible girl, had prepared tea for her parents and siblings the previous morning before heading to school as routine.
Her father, Isaac Idambo, recalled how Emmna had woken up excited, prepared tea, and bid farewell before leaving for school at around 6am. However, just 30 minutes later, Emmna's brother came running to inform them that the school had collapsed, and he couldn't see his sister.
Mr. Idambo and his family rushed to the school, where they found a few parents and teachers trying to rescue the pupils from the rubble. Despite their efforts, Emmna was severely injured and was rushed to Mediheal hospital, where she was pronounced dead upon arrival.
Emmna's parents and relatives were devastated by her death, which cut short her dream of becoming an educationist. Her father, Isaac Idambo, a bishop at Great Holiness Church, had cleared her school fees the previous day, hoping to ensure she was not distracted from her studies.
Emmna had aspired to join Starehe Girls High School and become a senior lecturer in one of the universities. Her mother, Judith Kadenyi, described her as a responsible young girl who carried the hopes of the family due to her exceptional academic abilities.
Gregory Shikanda, the presiding bishop at Great Holiness Church, remembered Emmna as a jovial girl who regularly participated in church functions. He called on the Government to ensure that buildings in both public and private schools are secure for learning.
