Westlands building that partially collapsed/TRACY MUTHONINairobi and Kericho counties witnessed separate construction incidents on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, resulting in two confirmed deaths and multiple injuries.
The National Construction Authority (NCA) has released preliminary findings on the accidents, highlighting potential causes and urging strict compliance with safety standards.
In Westlands, Nairobi, a partial collapse occurred at around 9:00 pm. The incident involved the 22nd-floor slab giving way onto the 21st floor during concrete casting.
One person died, while another sustained injuries and was taken to the hospital for treatment. Preliminary findings suggest the collapse was caused by a failure in the formwork supporting the slab.
Speaking on the matter, Eng. Maurice Akech, Executive Director of the NCA, said, “The incident involved a partial structural failure, with the probable cause being formwork failure.”
He noted that emergency teams responded promptly, securing the site and assisting with rescue operations.
Earlier the same day, at approximately 3:00 p.m., a residential development in Kaptebeswet, Belgut Sub‑County, Kericho, experienced a similar incident.
The second-floor slab of the construction site collapsed shortly after concrete placement. One fatality was recorded, and three others were injured and taken to Kericho County Referral Hospital.
NCA’s preliminary investigations indicate that inadequate propping and insufficient structural reinforcement may have contributed to the collapse.
Eng. Akech emphasised the importance of compliance with professional standards and building regulations.
“Continuous on-site supervision by duly registered and licensed professionals is critical. Proper design, installation, and supervision of formwork during concrete works must be ensured,” he said.
In both cases, multi-agency emergency teams—including the National Disaster Management Unit (NDMU), county governments, and the Kenya Red Cross—acted swiftly to secure the sites and support rescue and recovery efforts.
The NCA has confirmed that further investigations will determine accountability, establish the full circumstances surrounding the incidents, and assess adherence to construction regulations.
The authority has also issued a public advisory highlighting safety measures to prevent similar occurrences.
Eng. Akech urged developers and construction professionals to follow approved structural designs, implement adequate flood mitigation measures, and comply fully with the National Building Code, 2024.
“Adherence to approved demolition procedures and avoidance of development within riparian reserves are equally critical,” he added.
The NCA expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and wished a speedy recovery for the injured. Eng. Akech confirmed that updates will follow once investigations conclude.
These incidents serve as a stark reminder of the risks associated with construction when safety protocols are not fully observed. Authorities have called on industry players to prioritise public safety and rigorous supervision during all stages of construction, stressing that regulatory compliance is not optional but a legal and moral obligation.
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