Mariam Msah, January 2, 2026

A multi-storey building under construction collapsed on Friday morning, January 2, in Nairobi’s South C estate, sparking panic among residents and passersby.

The structure, believed to be as high as 16 storeys, gave way suddenly, sending thick plumes of dust into the air and scattering debris across nearby streets. Businesses and residents in the vicinity were forced to evacuate amid safety concerns.

Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, although authorities had yet to confirm whether anyone was trapped or injured beneath the rubble.

The Kenya Red Cross said a multi-agency response team was immediately deployed to coordinate search-and-rescue efforts, manage the emergency, and secure the area as investigations into the cause of the collapse get underway.