Nairobi MCAs raise safety concerns over 'unsafe' highrise buildings ahead of short rains

Nairobi MCAs have raised alarm over the safety of highrise buildings following the heavy rains witnessed in May and ahead of the short rains in the coming months.

Kiamaiko MCA Joseph Ndung'u has pointed out safety concerns surrounding a six-storey building in Huruma, which has shown signs of structural damage following the heavy rains experienced in May 2024.

In a statement issued before the Nairobi County Assembly, Ndung'u highlighted the potential danger posed by the building, which serves as a hostel for both local and international students.

"The building, located on plot No. C20 and C21 developed cracks due to the recent flooding. It is now unsafe for occupation," he said.

The structure houses 120 units, serving as a hostel for local and international students.

The legislator, referring to the Physical Planning and Urban Planning Act of 2019, pointed out that construction projects in Nairobi are required to undergo strict vetting before they begin, including the ability to withstand different weather conditions.

Ndung'u revealed that, despite efforts by the building's owner to reainforce the structure, the damage caused by the flooding remains severe.

"The owner has tried to reinforce the building, but its integrity was already compromised by the floods," he said, adding that the building is unsafe for continued occupation.

The MCA expressed concern that these guidelines may not have been followed in this case.

"The law is clear on what should be done before any construction takes place," Ndung'u noted.

"Experts must vet the building plans to ensure they meet all safety standards, but this building has developed cracks after the heavy rains, and it is now a danger to the residents."

Proper procedures

In a statement addressed to the Chairperson of the Sectoral Committees on Lands, Planning, and Housing, Ndung'u requested an investigation into whether the building's construction followed the proper procedures.

He also questioned whether the county government regularly inspects buildings to ensure they are safe for occupation, particularly in Kiamaiko Ward, where the damaged building is located.

"I am requesting the Chairperson to investigate whether the owner of this building followed the correct procedures during construction," reads the statement.

"We also need to know if the county government carries out regular assessments of buildings to determine their safety, especially in my ward."

The city MCA further urged the county to take decisive action to safeguard the lives of the students residing in the hostel.

He called for an immediate evacuation of the building if the county determines it is unsafe.

"We cannot afford to wait for a tragedy to happen. The safety of the students living in this building must come first. If the building does not meet the safety standards, an evacuation and demolition notice should be issued without delay to protect the lives of the residents," Ndung'u warned.

In May 2024, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja issued a stern warning to city architects and engineers on building construction approvals after a five-storey apartment block collapsed in Uthiru.

Sakaja cautioned architects and engineers whose names are utilised by contractors on construction permits, emphasising that they will be held responsible for any consequences that may arise.

"Action will be taken against any construction professionals who didn't follow the right procedures and approved the construction of the building that didn't meet required standards. The law must be followed," he said.

"If you are a professional architect or engineer whose name was used to get the construction approval for a building and you abandon the project for whatever reason, you must notify the professional body you belong to which will then inform the county that the project is ongoing without the supervision of professionals," Sakaja added.