The Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK) has called for a multi-sectoral
approach to tame the rising cases of buildings collapsing in Kenya.
The association, in a statement, expressed deep concern over the increasing
number of buildings collapsing in Mombasa and across the country.
AAK Mombasa Branch Chairman Duncan Odhiambo said they have consistently
advocated for a holistic and coordinated effort to enhance compliance with
building regulations and streamline development control.
"Our position on these recurring
events is that there is a need for a multi-sectoral approach to ensure a
coordinated effort towards streamlining development control and ensuring
compliance with building regulations," Odhiambo said.
As part of its ongoing efforts, Odhiambo said AAK has spearheaded several
initiatives aimed at enhancing safety in the built environment.
Among them, he said, is the 'Mulika Mjengo' Campaign, which provides
detailed reports on inspected construction sites, including the status of
complaints received.
“Additionally, AAK has been conducting continuous training programs and
benchmarking with other countries that uphold best practices in promoting a
safe and sustainable built and natural environment,” he said.
To further strengthen regulatory oversight, AAK has officially engaged with
the government requesting the inclusion of professionals from its 'Mulika Mjengo' site inspection team in
the MSACC.
These professionals include architects to ensure design compliance, planners
to enforce zoning regulations, and engineers to assess structural integrity.
The concern came following latest incident which saw a building dangerously
lean towards Pwani Road.
This reignited the debate on the need for stricter enforcement of building
regulations and a multi-sectoral approach to development control.
A preliminary report and physical assessment by AAK leadership at the scene
pointed to the structural failure of the ground-floor columns as the primary
cause of the incident.
"We await the official report from the National Building Inspectorate,
part of the Multi-Sectoral Agencies Coordinating Committee (MSACC), which has
taken the lead in the rescue operations and the imminent demolition of the
building," Odhiambo said.
AAK is now calling on the County Government of Mombasa to cooperate in
reinforcing its oversight and compliance capacity.
"We seek to enhance and reinforce oversight and compliance by
replicating the 'Je una mjengo?' Campaign, which was widely successful in
Nairobi," Odhiambo urged.
“Strengthening regulatory compliance and promoting the adoption of safe
building practices among developers is paramount in preventing further
structural failure. It is imperative that we work together to ensure that our
buildings meet the highest safety standards to protect lives and property.”
