According to a report titled ‘Status of the Built Environment 2024’ by the Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK), over 1,333 buildings were audited in the financial year 2023/24 to assess the safety of buildings across the country.
Of these, 42 buildings were deemed dangerous, requiring immediate testing and in some cases demolition. 246 buildings were classified as unsafe. In contrast, 453 buildings were marked as fair in following the set guidelines while 570 structures were identified as safe.
The association emphasised the need for robust planning from county governments and enhanced oversight to monitor urban density.
They also called on governors to adhere to policies that are in line with the law while attempting to accommodate the growing population.
One of the policies highlighted was Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja’s declaration that height restrictions on buildings would be eliminated and some areas within the county would be re-zoned.
According to the report, several professional bodies and associations opposed the move, arguing that it posed a threat to the environment and that the governor should prioritise more pressing matters on Nairobi’s infrastructure.
“The development of Local Physical Development Plans (LPDPs) and expansion of critical infrastructure, including sewerage and water reticulation, solid waste management, public transport networks, schools, health amenities, green open spaces, fire and emergency services and other social and physical infrastructure were emphasised as a priority,” read part of the report.
In the past decade, NBI has flagged 962 buildings as dangerous out of 20,649 inspected during the period.
Of these, 688 buildings were identified in Nairobi, while Kisii and Uasin Gishu counties recorded 703 and 368 unsafe structures respectively.
By Brian Kimani
