South C Building Collapse Raises Questions Over Oversight, Approval Violations, and Alleged Corruption

A 16-storey building under construction along Muhoho Road in Nairobi’s South C collapsed on Friday, January 2. The incident caused panic among residents. Two workers were feared trapped under the debris. Emergency teams rushed to the scene, including the Kenya Red Cross, National Disaster Management Unit, Nairobi City County teams, National Police Service, and Kenya Power.

The collapse gained more attention after Embakasi East MP Babu Owino released official Nairobi City County documents. The papers showed the project was approved as a 12-storey building, not 16. The approval, granted under the Physical and Land Use Planning Act of 2019, outlined strict conditions. These included certified structural designs, registered engineers’ approval, proper sewer systems, environmental safeguards, and an occupation certificate before use.

Babu said the documents proved safeguards existed on paper. However, he questioned whether officials enforced them. “We are shocked and saddened. This is a painful reminder of weak oversight, poor enforcement, and suspected corruption,” he said. He called for a full, independent investigation. He also demanded suspension of permits for undocumented or suspicious projects. Those found culpable must face prosecution. “Lives cannot be rebuilt, but systems can,” Babu added.

Lang’ata MP Felix Odiwuor, also known as Jalang’o, criticised the situation. He accused developers of colluding with corrupt officials to bypass safety rules. He noted residents had flagged the building as suspicious. Jalang’o urged that all ongoing construction projects in South C be halted. He called for multi-agency evaluations before any work resumes.

The collapse has raised concerns over weak enforcement and regulatory lapses in Nairobi. Authorities now face pressure to strengthen inspections. They must ensure builders comply with approved plans. The tragedy highlights the urgent need for stricter governance and accountability in urban development.