In response to a safety alarm raised over a structurally compromised building in Kahawa West, Nairobi, the National Construction Authority (NCA), along with multiple government agencies, swiftly initiated the evacuation of all residents on Wednesday.

The building, located on Plot L.R. No 71/11/3 in Kwale, Roysambu Subcounty, was deemed hazardous following an assessment, prompting the Nairobi City County Government to issue an enforcement notice.

The building, a four-storey structure with a penthouse converted for storage, houses 20 one-bedroom units and has reportedly been occupied by the owner, one Mary Wangui, for over a decade.

Following a thorough inspection, the NCA identified several critical structural issues compromising its integrity and endangering its inhabitants.

Among the primary concerns flagged was a “failure in key load-bearing areas”, with visible cracks on the ground floor wall and front corner columns, severely affecting the building's stability.

Read More

  1. Two rescued as NCC confirms safety after condemned Kahawa building collapses
  2. MEWS: City cat owners to pay Sh200 in annual license fee in proposed regulation
  3. Kenya Railways announces resumption of Kahawa West, Nanyuki train services

The inspection further revealed “cracking on structural elements,” notably on beams and walls on the first floor and ground level. Additionally, “dampness” observed on the first-floor balconies highlighted water infiltration risks, which could progressively weaken the building over time.

In response, the NCA ensured all tenants were evacuated and cordoned off the building to prevent unauthorised access.

The building owner has received an order to proceed with demolition, with authorities warning that failure to comply will result in immediate governmental intervention.

The NCA Executive Director, Eng. Maurice Akech, MBS, underscored the agency's commitment to public safety, urging the public and property owners to prioritise structural safety.

He noted that the NCA will continue collaborating with multi-sectoral agencies to enforce rigorous safety standards in the country’s construction industry.

“Members of the public and property owners are reminded to prioritise structural safety in residential buildings. NCA continues to work alongside multi-sectoral agencies in the built environment to ensure that safety standards are rigorously upheld in construction across the nation," Akech stated.

The swift evacuation and intervention underscore the ongoing efforts by Kenyan authorities to address the prevalent issue of substandard construction practices.

As the NCA takes decisive action, residents are reminded of the critical importance of adhering to building standards to safeguard lives and properties across the nation.