The Architectural Association of Kenya has detailed multiple regulatory failures preceding the collapse of a 14-storey building in South C on January 2, 2026. In their statement, they pointed to ignored stop orders and inadequate approvals. The group is urging investigations and tougher construction oversight.
The Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK) has identified multiple regulatory failures and professional lapses that preceded the collapse of a 14-storey building at the Kiganjo-Muhoho Avenue junction in South C on January 2, 2026. In a statement released on January 7, 2026, AAK President George A. Ndege outlined how the project advanced despite lacking critical approvals, ignored stop orders, and poor professional oversight.
The National Construction Authority (NCA) granted project registration before the developer obtained approvals from the Nairobi City County Government or the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA). Additional floors were approved without evidence of structural reviews or inspections of ongoing work. The AAK noted weak documentation of site supervision by the professional team and mid-project changes in consultants, including the structural engineer.
The project architect stated that the developer controlled coordination, restricting site access, and that the client served as both developer and contractor. While inspections and meetings occurred, no visit reports or minutes were recorded.
The AAK has called on the Board of Registration of Architects and Quantity Surveyors, as well as the Engineers Board of Kenya, to conduct independent investigations. It highlighted that enforcement notices and stop orders from the NCA and Nairobi City County Government were disregarded during construction.
To prevent future incidents, the AAK recommends involving registered consultants at every design and construction stage and adopting the 2024 Joint Building Contracts Committee (JBCC) Agreement. It advocates for a One-Stop Shop system to integrate permitting agencies, strict enforcement of the National Building Code, and routine standardized site inspections. County governments should maintain publicly accessible records of approved developments and require periodic compliance reports from consultants, with approvals confirmed only upon full verification at practical completion.
The association also urges firm action against unauthorized developments and encourages the public to report suspicious construction via its Mulika Mjengo platform, while extending condolences to the affected families.
