A staggering number of buildings in Kenya are at risk of collapse, according to a report by the Department of Public Construction. The report, presented to parliament, reveals that 57% of inspected buildings have structural defects that could lead to collapse. Out of 21,282 buildings inspected between July 1, 2025, and April 2, 2026, only 9,264, or 43.53%, were found to be safe and meeting construction standards.
The report has raised concerns about the safety of citizens, particularly given that 100 buildings have collapsed in Kenya since 1996. This year alone, eight buildings have collapsed, the highest number recorded in a single year. Nairobi, which recently witnessed a building collapse in the Eastleigh area, had a defect rate of 57%. Out of 3,908 construction sites inspected, only 2,261 met the required standards.
The report also highlights regional disparities in building safety. The former Western province led in terms of safety, with a compliance rate of 77%. In contrast, the North Eastern region had the worst record, with a compliance rate of only 5%. Out of 220 buildings inspected, only 11 were allowed to continue construction, while 209 projects were halted.
The report attributes building collapses to defects in design, substandard materials, and poor workmanship. Some builders are accused of reducing costs by using insufficient cement, especially in areas with weak soil, to increase profits. The report also notes that unqualified individuals are posing as engineers and architects, selling construction designs to investors.
The National Construction Authority (NCA) is responsible for inspecting construction sites and ensuring compliance with regulations. However, the report reveals that as of March 31, 2026, only 15 cases had been successfully prosecuted in various counties. The report blames the lack of enforcement and prosecution for encouraging a culture of non-compliance among developers and professionals.
The report recommends strengthening inspection and enforcement departments to hold violators accountable. It also calls for all construction projects to adhere to the 2024 Building Codes, which set standards for design, construction, and building maintenance. Those who violate these codes risk fines, imprisonment, or revocation of their professional licenses.
The report also notes that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is investigating building collapses to determine if any criminal offenses have been committed. The government has been urged to take action to address the issue and ensure public safety.
Key points
- Over half of inspected buildings in Kenya have structural defects that could lead to collapse.
- The report recommends strengthening inspection and enforcement departments to hold violators accountable.
- The government has been urged to take action to address the issue and ensure public safety.
