Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has ordered an audit of all buildings that were approved for construction in the last two years.
Speaking during the launch of a project in Mlango Kubwa on Wednesday, May 8, Sakaja noted that the audit was aimed at ascertaining the safety standards for buildings under construction.
In particular, he revealed that a task force appointed for the task will be looking at the safety of buildings and the standards of materials used during the construction.
Sakaja noted that the developers found to have used dubious means to obtain permits will have action taken against them.
Additionally, county officials found capable of approving buildings that do not meet the required standards will also face the law.
Further, he ordered the halting of approvals of new buildings and projects until further notice.
"I have also formed a task force that will look at the buildings that were approved for the last two years.
"If there is anybody who took shortcuts to approve the houses or use of substandard materials, action will be taken. The law must be taken," he stated.
Sakaja also noted that he had engaged with various professionals on ways to prevent the collapse of buildings within the country.
As a means to enhance safety during the ongoing rainy seasons, the governor announced a ban on all excavations. He explained that the excavations were undermining the integrity of surrounding buildings.
Further, he also noted an emerging trend where developers were using unqualified personnel to develop storey buildings.
"I have told the architects and engineers that if they are removed from a site, they have to inform their professional body so that we can know," he added.
Sakaja made the remarks after a residential building collapsed in Uthiru, Kiambu County. All occupants were accounted for during the rescue mission.
