Two trapped as 22-storey Westlands building partially collapses

 Westlands building that partially collapsed/TRACY MUTHONI

A 22-storey building under construction in Westlands partially collapsed on Wednesday, leaving two workers trapped and two others unharmed, authorities confirmed.

In a tweet, the Kenya Red Cross said, “Out of four workers involved, two escaped unhurt. Two remain trapped. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with the status of those trapped yet to be confirmed.”

Rescue teams have been deployed to search for the missing workers, working to secure the unstable structure and ensure the safety of the surrounding areas.

“Rescue teams are on site, carrying out search and rescue operations,” the Kenya Red Cross added. Residents have been urged to stay clear of the site to allow emergency personnel to operate without hindrance.

The Westlands collapse follows similar incidents elsewhere in the country. Hours earlier, a building under construction along the Kaptebeswet Bypass in Kericho County gave way, leaving several people feared trapped under rubble.

The County Government of Kericho confirmed that emergency response teams, including firefighting units and ambulances, were dispatched to the scene.

Earlier this week, on March 16, a separate collapse occurred in the Blue Estate area of Shauri Moyo, Nairobi. The Kenya Red Cross reported that the structure gave way adjacent to buildings being demolished on riparian land. Emergency teams were immediately deployed to rescue trapped individuals.

The cause of the Westlands' collapse remains unknown, and investigations are ongoing. Kenya Red Cross officials reiterated the need for strict adherence to construction safety regulations, warning that rushed or unsafe building practices can endanger lives.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation, while rescue crews work tirelessly to free the trapped workers.