In an update on the January 2, 2026, collapse of a 16-storey building in Nairobi's South C that killed at least two people, Lands and Housing CS Alice Wahome confirmed developers violated approvals by adding four unapproved floors to a structure cleared for 12 storeys. Rescue efforts retrieved one body, with investigations underway.
The collapse occurred on January 2 around 5 a.m. at Plot No. 209/5909/10 along Kiganjo Muhoho Avenue, prompting ongoing multi-agency rescues by Kenya Red Cross, National Disaster Management Unit, and National Police Service. The site remains cordoned off.
CS Wahome visited on January 5, revealing approvals covered only 12 storeys with construction up to the third floor at inspection. Developers illegally added four more floors. "At the time of the incident, the project was non-compliant on four additional floors that were never approved. That is the beginning of the problem, and our investigations will start from that point," she said.
A multi-sectoral team including the ministry, agencies, and professionals is probing violations, with threats of deregistration for culpable architects, contractors, and inspectors.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja stated the county issued non-compliance notices in May, July, and December 2025, ignored by developers. He urged prosecutorial powers for counties, citing ODPP inaction.
On January 4, DPP Renson Ingonga directed IG Douglas Kanja to investigate and report within seven days, including statements from developers, contractors, and officials. The ODPP emphasized rule of law and sympathies for victims.
