Several construction workers are still unaccounted for after a building under construction collapsed in Kericho on Wednesday, March 18, prompting an urgent multi-agency rescue operation.
The incident occurred in Kaptebeswet area, Kipchebor Ward, where a structure caved in, trapping workers beneath debris. In a statement, the Kericho County Government confirmed that emergency response teams, including firefighters and ambulances, were swiftly dispatched to the scene. Excavators and other heavy machinery were also deployed to support search and rescue efforts.
Images shared from the site show a partially collapsed structure, with a concrete slab that gave way, exposing twisted reinforcement bars and a compromised support column. Wooden formwork at the site also appeared unstable, raising concerns about construction integrity.
The Kenya Red Cross confirmed its involvement in the rescue mission, noting that at least four workers had been successfully pulled from the rubble. However, several others are still feared trapped as operations continue.
The incident adds to a worrying trend of building collapses across the country. On the same day, four people lost their lives after a partially demolished building collapsed in Shauri Moyo, Nairobi, while another incident earlier in January in South C left at least two people feared dead.
The Engineers Board of Kenya has attributed the rising cases to poor construction practices, use of unqualified personnel, and weak regulatory enforcement. A coalition of engineering bodies has warned that over 200 buildings have collapsed nationwide since 1996, blaming a persistent culture of impunity.
Government officials have since cautioned developers and contractors, warning of severe consequences for those found responsible for unsafe construction practices.