AAK attributes cracks in Mombasa building teetering on collapse to structural failures

The Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK) has raised concerns over the increasing number of buildings collapsing in Mombasa and across the country.

A preliminary report and on-site assessment by AAK leadership indicate that the structural failure of ground-floor columns caused a building under construction at Lighthouse, Kilifi Corner, to tilt dangerously towards Pwani Road, prompting fears of an imminent collapse.

“We await the official report from the National Building Inspectorate, part of MSACC, which has taken the lead in the rescue operations and the imminent demolition of the building,” AAK Mombasa Branch Chairman Dancan Odhiambo said.

There was panic among residents near the Coast General Hospital on Wednesday night after large cracks appeared on the structure.

Alarmed locals reported the issue around 7:30 pm, prompting an immediate response from emergency teams.

Coast Regional Commissioner Rhoda Onyancha urged residents to remain patient as authorities worked on a safe demolition plan.

She said the situation was being actively addressed and called on the county government to handle the matter carefully, as emergency operations required coordination.

“I want to assure residents that the demolition process would take time to ensure safety and urged them to be patient,” she said.

Lawrence Gitau, the director at the National Building Inspectorate, confirmed that the ground-floor columns had failed, leading to structural instability.

One floor already collapsed

He explained that one floor had already collapsed, indicating that the foundation was compromised and the building was now leaning dangerously. He said experts, including engineers and architects, had been consulted to assess the situation.

“Once the demolition is complete, concrete samples will be taken to the laboratory for further analysis to determine the exact cause of failure,” said Gitau.

He emphasised that ensuring strict adherence to approved architectural and structural plans is critical in preventing further structural failures, adding that the cost of hiring professional consultants is minimal compared to the potential loss of investment and, more importantly, the loss of lives.

The AAK has reiterated the need for stricter oversight and compliance with building regulations to prevent such incidents.

The association noted it has been at the forefront of advocating for better construction practices and has taken several initiatives, including launching the ‘Mulika Mjengo’ campaign, which inspects construction sites and documents compliance violations.

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It has also focused on continuous training of professionals and benchmarking with global best practices to enhance the safety and sustainability of the built environment.

AAK has also formally engaged the government, requesting the inclusion of its professionals in MSACC teams to oversee compliance, particularly in ensuring design adherence, enforcing zoning regulations, and evaluating structural and civil engineering aspects of buildings.

AAK’s Odhiambo called on the Mombasa County government to enhance its oversight role in the construction industry. He also suggested replicating Nairobi’s successful ‘Je Una Mjengo?’ campaign to strengthen regulatory compliance and promote safer building practices among developers.

Authorities in Mombasa have warned residents to stay clear of the area as demolition experts assess the best approach to safely bring down the compromised structure.

Investigations into the cause of the structural failure are ongoing, with experts emphasising the urgent need for better construction standards to avert disasters.