Mombasa Based Architectural Firm Red Flagged After Collapsed Building; 20 Projects Halted

The contractor responsible for an 11-storey building that collapsed in Mombasa last week is under increased scrutiny after Governor Abdulswamad Nassir suspended 20 high-rise construction projects linked to the firm.

“We have suspended 20 ongoing construction projects associated with the contractor behind the collapsed building,” Nassir announced during a press briefing. “All their operations have been halted, and once we receive the preliminary report on the structural materials, we will ensure the contractor is barred from operating anywhere in the country.”

The governor said experts spent over four hours collecting steel bar samples from the site to assess whether the materials met safety and quality standards.

“We cannot let emotions cloud our judgment, but we must hold those responsible to account. Our priority is public safety,” Nassir emphasized. “Once the steel bar report is released, appropriate action will follow.”

Conflict of Interest Concerns

John Kinuthia, the county architect responsible for approving building plans in Mombasa, is also a partner at Disaini Team Firm—the company that designed the collapsed 11-storey structure.

The building, located off Abdel Nasser Road in Bondeni’s Kilifi area, tilted and partially sank, causing two floors to cave in. Tragically, one person was buried alive in the incident.

Kinuthia’s dual role as a public official and private practitioner has raised concerns over a potential conflict of interest, casting doubt on the transparency of the county’s approval process.

Governor Nassir further vowed to push for the revocation of the contractor’s license, warning that negligence in construction would not be tolerated.