Construction of collapsed Kisii building that killed five people was illegal, AAK says
The incident left three other individuals remain hospitalised, while many more have been affected by what AAK terms as a preventable incident
The Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK) says the developer of a four-storey building under construction, which collapsed and killed five people in Itiero, Kisii County did not involve registered consultants or contractors on record.
While expressing his sadness over the tragic loss of the five lives in the April 6 incident, AAC President George A. Ndege said the Authority had suspended work at the site in September last year, yet the developer unlawfully resumed construction without obtaining the necessary approvals.
The incident left three other individuals remain hospitalised, while many more have been affected by what AAK terms as a preventable incident.
“This tragedy is a stark reminder of the grave consequences of non-compliance with construction regulations. Preliminary findings from the National Construction Authority (NCA) reveal that there were no registered consultants or contractors on record for the project,” Ndege said in a statement.
He added that to prevent such devastating incidents, essential safeguards for construction projects including engaging registered consultants throughout design and construction must be undertaken.
Ndege also reiterated the need to obtain statutory permits from the County Governments, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), National Construction Authority (NCA) and others before commencing works.
Developers must also ensure strict compliance with the National Building Code, approved plans and all conditions of approval.
“This is the third building collapse in Kenya this month alone—a grim indication of systemic negligence in enforcing building safety, site inspections and regulatory oversight,” Ndege noted.
He said AAK remains committed to promoting safe, legal, and sustainable practices in the built environment.
“We urge all government agencies to act swiftly against illegal developments and call on the public to report any suspicious construction activity via our Mulika Mjengo platform,” Ndege concluded.
On Wednesday, Kenya Defence Forces undertook a controlled detonation of a 11-storey building in Mombasa, which had exhibited severe foundation compromise resulting from the drilling of a borehole leading to the caving in of one floor.
