Multiple feared trapped as Nairobi building collapses during construction

The building came down at approximately 1 p.m. local time along a congested commercial thoroughfare in Nairobi's Eastleigh area, one of the city's most densely populated business zones. The collapse sent tremors through the neighbourhood, home to thousands of traders, shoppers, and residents who frequent the area daily.

Emergency responders rushed to the scene following the incident. The exact number of people feared trapped beneath the structure remains unclear as rescue efforts got underway. Initial reports indicate that workers and possibly bystanders may have been in or near the building at the time of the collapse.

The incident has renewed concerns about construction safety and oversight in Kenya, where building collapses have occasionally been reported in recent years. Authorities have begun investigating the circumstances surrounding the structural failure, including potential violations of building codes or safety protocols.

The Eastleigh district, a major commercial hub in Nairobi, is typically bustling with activity throughout the day. The timing of the collapse during peak business hours raised the possibility of a higher casualty count. Rescue teams continued working to assess the full extent of the disaster and locate survivors.