The Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK) has issued a public warning following a partial structural failure at a construction site in Westlands, Nairobi.

The incident occurred at a 14-storey residential building with three basement levels, along Ndonyo Sabuk Avenue, off Peponi Road.

In its public statement dated Wednesday, December 17, 2025, the EBK stated: “The Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK) wishes to inform the public and provide an update on the ongoing investigations into a partial structural failure at the construction site of a 14-storey residential building with three basement levels, located in Westlands, Nairobi.”

The Board, in collaboration with the National Construction Authority (NCA), Board of Registration of Architects and Quantity Surveyors (BORAQS), Nairobi City County Government, National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), and other agencies forming the Multi-Sectoral Agency Consultative Committee (M-SACC), visited the site on 16 December 2025 to assess the situation.

Preliminary findings

The joint inspection revealed that construction began in September 2024 and had obtained all necessary approvals, including a registered engineer on record. However, the partial collapse involved the failure of two shear walls. Key issues identified include unauthorised engineering practices, unauthorised design changes, and a lack of professional supervision.

“The person supervising the structural works on-site with the help of two others, is not registered with the Engineers Board of Kenya. Under the Engineers Act, practising engineering without proper registration is strictly prohibited,” the Board stated.

“Design changes on site done by unregistered persons were implemented, which potentially led to the partial structural failure witnessed,” the statement added.

“The investigation found no record of the appointed engineer-on-record providing the required statutory supervision, or approvals for the structural changes made prior to the failure,” the EBK noted.

Regulatory actions and public guidance

In response, the EBK has suspended all engineering works at the site except for emergency activities. “The Board has commenced formal investigation proceedings regarding the conduct of the persons offering professional engineering services on the site.”

The Board reminded developers and the public: “The EBK reminds all project owners, contractors, and developers that adherence to engineering laws is essential for site safety. It is a legal requirement to hire only registered and licensed Professional Engineers for the design and supervision of all works.”