Press Statement by Hon. Babu Owino on the Collapse of a Seven-Storey Building in Kahawa West, Nairobi

October 20, 2024

I have learned with great sadness about the tragic collapse of a seven-storey building in the Kahawa West area of Nairobi. My heartfelt condolences go out to the families who have lost loved ones in this tragic incident. I stand with you in this time of grief. For those who have been injured, I wish you a swift and full recovery.

This devastating event is a stark reminder of the urgent need for proper regulation and accountability in the construction and development sector. The County Government of Nairobi must take up its role to rigorously enforce building standards and ensure that every development project meets the required safety regulations. Too often, we have witnessed lives lost and families broken due to negligence and corruption within this industry. It is unacceptable.

I strongly condemn any form of corruption and negligence that may have contributed to this disaster. The lives of Kenyans are precious, and no one should have to live in fear of such preventable tragedies. It is high time that the authorities take decisive action against those responsible for the systemic failures in our construction industry. The safety of Nairobi residents must be prioritized above profit or political expediency.

As we continue to receive updates on the situation, I urge the County Government of Nairobi to swiftly address the root causes of these incidents. Let us not wait for another catastrophe to act. Together, we must build a city where people can live, work, and raise families without the fear of unsafe buildings collapsing around them.

I will continue to advocate for accountability and transparency in our development processes to ensure that the people of Nairobi are protected from such tragedies in the future.

May the departed rest in peace, and may their families find comfort in this difficult time.

Hon. Babu Owino, MP
Embakasi East Constituency