Revealed: Poor workmanship behind fatal Karen building collapse
By Aloys Michael, January 11, 2026Preliminary investigations into the Karen building collapse indicate that poor workmanship and substandard construction materials caused the tragedy that killed two people and injured seven others.
In a press briefing on Saturday, January 10, 2026, Nairobi City County Executive Committee Member Patrick Mbogo said initial findings show that inappropriate timber supports were used instead of steel props, compromising the structure.
“Preliminary investigations indicate that the collapse was caused by structural failure resulting from poor workmanship and inadequate formwork. Initial findings show the use of sub-standard materials, where timber gum tree supports were used instead of appropriate steel props for the double-volume slab,” he revealed.
The County revealed that the project was developed by Moses A. Nyakiogora with Eng. Edward Kariuki is listed as the structural engineer.
Mbogo said NCCG immediately deployed emergency and rescue teams, working alongside the National Disaster Management Unit (NDMU) and the Kenya Red Cross.
Seven people were rescued with injuries and taken to the hospital, while two others succumbed to severe crush injuries and were transferred to Nairobi Funeral Home.
The incident occurred at Plot No. 12882/197 along Ngong View Lane, Karen Ward, within Lang’ata Sub-County, Southern Borough.
According to NCCG records, architectural plans for the development were approved on November 14, 2024, and structural plans received approval on November 27, 2024.
The County noted that further investigations are ongoing to establish the exact cause of the collapse and determine if any parties may be held legally responsible.
Further, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Assistant Inspector General Duncan Ochieng said emergency crews continue to assess the site.
Reports indicated that the first floor caved in as workers began laying the slab foundation.
This incident follows the South C building 14-storey building structure pancaked, killing at least two people.
Lands Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome blamed the Nairobi County Government for approving four additional floors beyond the originally sanctioned design.
She noted that preliminary findings pointed to serious lapses in the approval process, describing the actions of some county officials as rogue and criminal.
“The government will take action against all individuals involved in irregular and unlawful approvals that compromised safety standards and ultimately led to the collapse of this 14-storey building,” Wahome said.
Moreover, experts in the building and construction industry have called for a rapid inquiry into the collapse, urging that those responsible for approving additional floors be held accountable for breaching professional codes.