NBRB Cites Structural Flaws in Bwerenga Church Collapse

What the report says

The National Building Review Board has said its preliminary assessment of the Holy City Church collapse in Bwerenga, Wakiso District points to several possible causes, including design weaknesses, poor workmanship and the absence of required building approvals. The incident left one person dead and 25 others injured, according to the Nile Post report.

The board said the collapsed section was a four-level extension added to the existing church hall. It found that the structure had leaned before falling, and that construction work was still ongoing at the time, with workers reportedly doing finishing tasks such as terrazzo flooring. Investigators also raised concerns about large concrete beams, uneven reinforcement placement and irregular shapes in columns, beams and floors, all of which suggested potential weaknesses in structural integrity.

The report further said no building permit or approved construction drawings were found at the site, raising questions about compliance with building regulations. The extension was described as a Class A building, which typically requires closer regulatory oversight and professional supervision. The board also noted a lack of visible site safety measures.

The findings are still preliminary, and the board said more investigation is needed to determine the exact cause of the collapse and how much each factor contributed. The case highlights broader concerns about building safety and enforcement in fast-growing areas, where construction projects may face pressure from weak oversight or noncompliance with standards.