A tragic building collapse in Karen has reignited debates on construction safety in Nairobi, highlighting the risks posed by unregistered projects and substandard materials. On the evening of Saturday, January 10, a structure along Ngong Road gave way during concrete works, killing two workers and injuring several others.
The National Construction Authority (NCA) confirmed in a statement on Sunday, January 11, that the project was not registered with the authority at the time of the incident and has since been suspended under Suspension Order No. 165431. Preliminary investigations suggest that the framework system supporting the concrete failed under load during casting at the carport area.
Rescue operations, coordinated by NCA and other relevant agencies, were concluded Saturday night, and the site has been secured as further investigations continue. The authority also disclosed the registered owner of the plot where the collapsed building stood.
Meanwhile, Nairobi City County officials attributed the collapse to the use of substandard materials, including timber gun tree supports instead of steel props, for the double-volume slab. Police reports indicate the building had reached the first-floor level when the floor gave way, claiming two lives.
This incident follows closely on the heels of another building collapse in South C estate less than two weeks ago, which also resulted in fatalities. The recurring accidents have sparked calls for stricter enforcement of construction regulations and more rigorous oversight of both registered and unregistered projects across Nairobi.