The government has halted the South C building project that collapsed early Friday morning as it leads an intensive, multi-agency rescue operation to save four Kenyans still trapped under the rubble.
The building, which collapsed at around 4:30 a.m. in Nairobi’s South C area, was under construction at the time of the incident. Initial reports indicate that the structure had risen beyond its approved height, raising serious questions about compliance with construction regulations.
According to preliminary investigations, the building had been approved for 12 floors by the Nairobi City County Government, but was constructed beyond that limit. Authorities say early assessments suggest the collapse may have been caused by overloading of structural beams, though investigations are ongoing.
The National Construction Authority (NCA) has identified Yusuf Mohamed Yusuf as both the developer and contractor of the building. Officials say further details regarding project approvals, inspections, and compliance will be released as inquiries progress.
A multi-agency rescue operation is currently underway, led by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), with support from the Kenya Police Service, National Disaster Operations Centre (NDOC), National Youth Service (NYS), National Government Administration Officers (NGAO), the Kenya Red Cross, and officers from the Nairobi City County Government.
Authorities have confirmed that four people remain trapped in the rubble. Earlier reports indicated that two security guards and two Bolt drivers, along with their passengers, were among those affected. Rescue teams continue to work around the clock as anxious families await news.
Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Hon. Geoffrey Kiringa Ruk who visited the site on Friday afternoon assured affected families that the government will not relent until all those trapped are recovered.
The government has also announced that legal action will be taken against all individuals found culpable of violations that led to the collapse, warning that the move is intended to deter criminal practices and restore accountability in Kenya’s construction industry.
Rescue operations remain ongoing, and more updates are expected as investigations and recovery efforts continue.
