Officials blame structural failures for collapsed Karen building
The Nairobi City County Government claims the collapse of a building in Karen was caused by structural failure linked to poor workmanship and inadequate formwork.
County Executive Committee Member for Built Environment and Urban Planning, Patrick Mbogo said initial findings revealed the use of sub-standard materials, with timber gum tree supports allegedly used instead of the required steel props to support a double-volume slab.
According to NCCG, architectural plans for the project were approved on November 14, 2024, while structural plans received approval on November 27, 2024.
The developer of the project has been identified as Moses A. Nyakiogora, with Eng. Edward Kariuki listed as the structural engineer.
Two people were killed and seven others injured on January 10 after a residential building under construction collapsed in Karen, Nairobi.
The incident occurred along Ngong View Lane in Karen Ward, Lang’ata Sub-county. Officials said the structure caved in while construction was ongoing, trapping workers beneath the debris.
Emergency and rescue teams were immediately dispatched to the scene following the report of the collapse.
The operation was carried out jointly by NCCG emergency responders, the National Disaster Management Unit, and the Kenya Red Cross.
Seven victims were rescued with injuries and rushed to hospital for treatment.
However, two people sustained severe crush injuries and were pronounced dead.
Their bodies were transferred to the Nairobi Funeral Home.
Mbogo said further investigations are ongoing to establish accountability and ensure compliance with construction standards.
It comes a weeks after a 16 storey building collapsed and killed two guards on duty at South C in Nairobi. There have been calls for action on officials responsible for the approval of the construction of the building.
Police are among those investigating the saga and have so far recorded statements from the developer and other parties involved. The team has also summoned at least ten officials at the county government for statements.
Police plan to press charges on those found culpable for the collapse.
There is also a push for audit on many structures under construction. This is after major professional bodies in the sector claimed graft had compromised the integrity of the structures.