Nairobi leaders have called on the county government to tighten enforcement of building regulations and conduct regular inspections to prevent building collapses that put residents and workers at risk.
The leaders want the Nairobi City County Government and relevant authorities to ensure that all buildings obtain the necessary construction permits before work begins and that developers adhere to approved architectural plans and safety standards.
They have also called for routine inspections during construction to ensure developers comply with building regulations and that structures meet the required safety standards.
Their concerns come amid growing calls for accountability over building safety in Nairobi, where structural failures have raised questions about the enforcement of construction regulations and the protection of residents.
Speaking on the issue, Nairobi County UDA woman rep aspirant Faith Nguthu urged county officials to stop overlooking building regulations, warning that innocent people continue to bear the consequences when structures collapse.
“Tuache kupitia vitu za nusu nusu, sababu kuna watu tunaambiwa leo wako huko chini, wanaumia innocently,” Nguthu said.
She noted that residents and workers often occupy buildings believing they are safe, only for disaster to strike unexpectedly.
“Wao walikuwa wanajua nyumba imejengwa vizuri, all of a sudden mtu alikuwa ametoka asubuhi kukuja kazini, nyumba ikaanguka,” she added.
Nguthu said authorities must ensure that developers follow the proper procedures when applying for construction approvals and putting up buildings.
“So tunaihimiza Nairobi County na viongozi wetu, please watu wakikuja kuapply mambo ya ujenzi, wafuate ile vitu inafaa wafuate ya ujenzi ndio watu wasiumie,” she said.
Calls for accountability
The appeal places renewed focus on the responsibility of county authorities to verify construction plans, issue permits in accordance with the law and monitor projects to ensure compliance with approved designs.
Regular inspections are critical in identifying structural weaknesses and other safety violations before buildings are occupied, helping to reduce the risk of collapses and loss of life.
The leaders are also calling for strict action against developers and contractors who disregard construction requirements, as well as stronger oversight to ensure that building approvals are not treated as mere formalities.
For residents, the issue goes beyond compliance with paperwork, with Nguthu stressing that enforcement failures can have devastating consequences for people who trust that the buildings they live and work in are safe.
The calls put pressure on Nairobi County to strengthen building inspections and ensure that construction standards are upheld to protect lives and property.
