Mombasa, Kenya| Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has ordered an immediate and comprehensive audit of all buildings linked to the professionals involved in the construction of a dangerously unstable 11-storey building in Kona ya Kilifi, Mvita Sub-County.
The move follows the alarming near-collapse of the structure, which had reached its finishing stage but began showing significant structural distress.
The first floor has already caved in, and the entire building leans precariously, posing a grave threat to nearby residents and businesses.
Deep cracks have been observed on key support columns, raising fears that the entire structure could collapse at any moment.
Governor Nassir emphasized the gravity of the situation and vowed accountability, stating, “We have brought onboard the Engineers Board of Kenya and the National Construction Authority. If the Engineers lied in their reports, these are people who need to go to jail. There are no two ways about it.”
As part of the directive, a full audit will be undertaken on all buildings connected to the engineers and professionals involved in the compromised structure.
The audit will not only evaluate structural soundness but also scrutinize compliance with architectural and engineering specifications, particularly the quality and type of construction materials used.
Authorities will also compile a complete inventory of materials used in the controversial building to determine whether they match those listed in the officially approved plans.
Any deviation from the approved specifications could constitute gross negligence or fraud, both of which are criminally prosecutable.
The directive was issued a day after Coast Regional Commissioner Rhoda Onyancha led efforts to cordon off the building and ordered the evacuation of nearby buildings to ensure public safety.
Emergency responders and security personnel have been stationed in the area to prevent access and respond to any sudden developments.
Governor Nassir revealed that the building initially received county approval for six floors in 2023. In 2024, an additional three floors were sanctioned, bringing the legally approved total to nine.
However, the current structure stands at 11 floors, raising serious questions about oversight and regulatory enforcement.
“The engineers submitted their drawings, which included all the technical specifications and materials to be used. What we see now is not what was approved,” said the Governor.
The County Government, in collaboration with national regulatory bodies, is now spearheading efforts to demolish the unstable building to avert a potential disaster.
Investigations are underway to determine who authorized the extra floors and whether shortcuts were taken during construction.
This incident has reignited concerns about construction standards and regulatory enforcement in rapidly urbanizing regions such as Mombasa.
Experts have long warned of the dangers posed by rogue developers and professionals who flout building codes in pursuit of profit.
As the audit unfolds, more buildings may come under scrutiny, and arrests or legal action could follow if violations are confirmed.
The County Government has reiterated its commitment to public safety and promised transparency in the investigation process.
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