It was an 'act of God', developers of doomed Mombasa building say as they defend compliance
The developers attributed the unexpected failure to a geotechnical shift—a movement in the earth’s structure that was not anticipated and, according to them, beyond human control.
The developers of a demolished building in Mombasa’s Kilifi Corner area have spoken out for the first time following the structural failure that caused the building to tilt and sink by one floor. They referred to the incident as “an act of God” and reaffirmed full compliance with all legal and regulatory standards.
The building, which had been due for completion in August this year at a total cost of Sh350 million, experienced a dramatic structural shift on April 2, prompting an immediate evacuation and the activation of multi-agency emergency response efforts.
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A spokesman for the developers, Irshad Sumra, insisted that every aspect of the project was undertaken with strict adherence to guidelines from relevant oversight bodies, including the Mombasa County Government, the National Construction Authority (NCA), and the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA).
“As the developers of this project, we would like to reaffirm that from inception, we strictly adhered to all legal and regulatory requirements. This included obtaining full approvals from the Mombasa County Government, NCA, and NEMA,” said Irshad.
Irshad Sumra, a spokesman for the developers. (Farhiya Hussein)
“Every stage of the project was carried out in accordance with the required documentation, permits, and compliance protocols,” he added.
Originally approved as a six-storey building, the project eventually rose to ten floors. The developers clarified that they sought and received official clearance for the additional four floors through proper channels, maintaining that the expansion was lawful and approved.
According to the developers, the construction was subject to continuous supervision, including regular inspections by the Mombasa County Department of Planning and Housing. These inspections reportedly verified that all structural, architectural, and engineering works were consistent with the approved plans.
“From a technical standpoint, we went above and beyond the prescribed standards. For example, where the structural design specified D20 reinforcement bars, we upgraded to D25,” Irshad added.
The developers attributed the unexpected failure to a geotechnical shift—a movement in the earth’s structure that was not anticipated and, according to them, beyond human control.
“Despite our best efforts, rigorous planning, and substantial investment in quality, the building experienced an unfortunate and unforeseen event—sliding downward by one floor and developing a tilt. This was not due to structural inadequacy but rather an unexpected geotechnical shift, an act of God beyond human foresight or control,” said Irshad.
The developers expressed their deep distress at the incident, describing it as a painful setback both financially and emotionally.
“It is a moment of great distress for all of us involved, and we humbly ask for your understanding and support during this challenging time,” said Irshad while addressing the media at the demolition site minutes after the demolition.
The Mombasa building that was brought down after it begun to tilt and sink. (Farhiya Hussein)
They also extended heartfelt gratitude to emergency responders and local authorities, including the Kenya Army, the Muslim Kumbhar Jamaat, the Governor of Mombasa Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir, the staff of Mombasa County, and security teams who managed the site.
“Your professionalism, courage, and commitment have been invaluable during this difficult period,” said Irshad, noting, “We also sincerely thank the neighbouring residents and businesses for their patience, support, and resilience in the face of this natural tragedy.”
Authorities have yet to release an official report on the cause of the structural failure. Meanwhile, a multi-agency team is overseeing the demolition site, and the area remains cordoned off to ensure public safety.
Windows from two nearby buildings shattered due to the impact.
The Mombasa building that was brought down after it begun to tilt and sink. (Farhiya Hussein)
According to Governor Abdulswamad, delays occurred after some residents resisted staying back in their homes to film the demolition from their windows.
He, however, praised the collaboration between the military and other relevant authorities in ensuring a smooth demolition, with no casualties reported.
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