NCA suspends Karen construction project after fatal collapse

The National Construction Authority (NCA) has suspended a construction project in Karen, Nairobi, following a tragic incident that left two people dead and several others injured on Saturday, January 10, 2026.

According to a press statement issued by NCA Executive Director and Registrar of Contractors Eng. Maurice Akech, the Authority stopped all activities at the site located on Plot Number 12882/197, Ngong View Lane in Karen Ward, Lang’ata Sub-County, through Suspension Order No. 165431 issued on January 10, 2026.

The NCA confirmed that the incident occurred at about 4:30 p.m. and involved a proposed one-storey residential development that was under construction.

Preliminary assessments by the Authority suggest that the tragedy happened during concrete casting works at the carport area of the structure. The statement indicates that the suspected cause was a failure of the formwork system, which collapsed under the weight of fresh concrete.

The Authority reported that the incident resulted in two fatalities, two people sustaining critical injuries, and seven others suffering minor injuries.

All injured persons were promptly evacuated to a nearby hospital for medical attention. The registered owner of the plot has also been identified, the Authority said.

NCA further disclosed that the project had not been registered with the Authority at the time of the incident. Following the suspension, the construction area has been secured and cordoned off to prevent further access while authorities continue to assess the scene.

Eng. Akech stated that the Authority, working alongside emergency response teams, arrived at the site shortly after the incident.

Rescue operations were successfully concluded later in the evening. He noted that relevant enforcement agencies are now conducting investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding the collapse.

The Authority said a comprehensive report will be issued upon completion of the investigations. In the meantime, NCA maintains that it remains committed to enforcing construction standards, ensuring compliance, and safeguarding public safety across all building projects in the country.

The statement reiterates NCA’s mandate as a State Corporation established under the National Construction Authority Act No. 41 of 2011, tasked with regulating and coordinating the construction industry in Kenya.

As investigations continue, the Authority has emphasized the importance of project registration and adherence to approved construction procedures, noting that compliance is critical in preventing such incidents and protecting lives.

A detailed report on the Karen incident will be made public after investigative processes are finalised.