Many feared trapped after multistorey building collapses in Kenya

What the report says

Rescuers in Nairobi, Kenya, were searching for people feared trapped after a multistorey building collapsed on Friday in the Eastleigh area, a busy commercial district. Al Jazeera reported that the structure was still under construction when it gave way at about 1pm local time, leaving a large pile of concrete and steel for emergency crews to clear.

Officials said the building had more than 10 upper floors under construction. Nairobi police chief Issa Mohamud said one injured woman had been pulled out and taken to hospital, while another person who had been calling for help later went silent. Authorities also warned that the remaining structure could collapse further because it was leaning on a neighbouring building.

Governor Johnson Sakaja said the building had been approved for construction but did not have an occupation certificate, making use of the ground floor illegal. The ground level had reportedly been occupied by an electronics shop, a butchery and a grocery. Al Jazeera said relatives gathered nearby to report missing family members, while rescue teams used excavators and hand tools as heavy machinery arrived slowly.

The collapse has raised broader concerns about building safety and enforcement in Kenya, where inspectors have previously found many structures lacking standards or approvals. Police said investigations would follow, and officials said those found negligent could face legal action.