Pope Francis has expressed profound sorrow over the tragic fire that engulfed Hillside Endarasha Academy in Nyeri County, claiming the lives of 18 students.

In a telegram addressed to Archbishop Anthony Muheria of Nyeri, the Pope conveyed his deep sadness, calling the incident a "calamity" that has shaken the Kenyan nation.

Pope Francis shared in his message, which was signed by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, on Saturday, stating he was “deeply saddened” to learn of the loss of young lives.

He also expressed his “spiritual closeness to all who are suffering the effects of this calamity, especially the injured and the families who grieve.

The Pope offered his prayers for the victims' families and commended the souls of the departed children to "the loving mercy of Almighty God." He also extended his spiritual support to those injured in the incident and those still grappling with the overwhelming grief.

He stated, “loving mercy of Almighty God” and offered his “prayers for the personnel and the civil authorities who continue to provide assistance.”

The fire, which broke out on Thursday night, ravaged a boys' dormitory at the school, housing over 150 boys aged between 10 and 14. Eyewitness reports describe a scene of chaos as the flames rapidly consumed the dormitory, leaving little room for escape. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, with authorities yet to release an official statement on the origin of the blaze.

As rescue efforts continue, 70 students remain unaccounted for, intensifying fears that the death toll could rise.

Pope Francis’ message was not the only gesture of global solidarity.

President William Ruto, in a statement from China where he is currently on an official visit, declared a three-day period of national mourning to honour the lives lost.

“As a solemn testament to the indelible mark left upon the nation’s consciousness by the spirits of the eighteen departed children, Kenya shall observe a three-day period of national mourning,” President Ruto announced.

Beginning on Monday, flags across the country, including at the State House and all Kenyan diplomatic missions, will fly at half-mast until sunset on Wednesday, a symbolic gesture of the nation's grief and respect for the innocent lives lost.

The President’s statement, while echoing the sorrow of Kenyans, also pointed to the government's commitment to getting to the bottom of the tragedy. “We shall not rest until we establish the cause of this devastating incident and ensure justice for the victims and their families,” he affirmed.

Parents and relatives of the affected students have been left in shock, with many gathering at the school hoping for news of their missing children. The overwhelming grief was palpable as tearful parents clutched photos of their children, praying for any sign of life.

The government has pledged to support the families, both emotionally and financially, during this difficult time. In a gesture of solidarity, the Ministry of Education has ordered all schools across Nyeri County to observe moments of silence in memory of the departed children.

The tragedy has reignited concerns over safety standards in boarding schools across Kenya, with many parents calling for stricter enforcement of regulations. The national outcry has reached fever pitch, with demands for answers growing louder as the nation struggles to come to terms with the horrific loss.

As Pope Francis continues his Apostolic Journey in Papua New Guinea, his words of comfort resonate deeply with a grieving nation. “May the Lord’s blessings of strength, peace, and consolation be upon all those affected,” he wrote, offering a ray of hope in a time of darkness.