Nine of 10 technicians who were working at a construction site in Hurlingham, Nairobi have died after a tower crane they were working on came tumbling down on Thursday.

Zhejiang Chengjian Construction Africa, the contractor at the site, said the tragic incident occurred at 12:45pm as the technicians were decommissioning the crane at the site.

“At 12:45 p.m today (26th August, 2021) we had an unfortunate accident that occurred at one of our construction sites in the Hurlingham area. We first and foremost wish to convey our sincerest condolences to the families of the bereaved,” said Zonq Xudong, General Manager Kenya, Zhejiang Chengjian Construction Africa.

He said the company was working with all other relevant government agencies to establish what transpired leading to the accident.

“While decommissioning our tower crane, part of it unfortunately collapsed killing nine technicians, seven of whom were of Kenyan nationality and two of Chinese nationality. One technician is currently receiving medical care,” Xudong said.

ZJCC construction site. PHOTO/COURTESY 

He added, “Our crisis team is currently in the process of contacting families of the affected persons. We reiterate our deepest condolences and sympathies and offer our thoughts, prayers and support at this time.”

The contractor said the site had been sealed off and they were working with police and the Directorate of Occupational Safety and Health Services (DOSHS) to probe the matter.

They have assured that a thorough investigation would be carried into the incident based on the laws and regulations governing construction sites in Kenya.