Campaign to ensure safe buildings begins

The East African Portland Cement Company (EAPCC) in partnership with the Kenya Alliance of Resident Association (KARA) has launched the first Resident Dialogue Forum (RDF) in a series of eight to be held in different counties. The talks are aimed at creating public awareness, interest and participation in prevention of poor quality construction and continued occupation of dangerous buildings. 

The forum, which was targeted mainly at resident associations, brought together various stakeholders in the construction industry including Ministry of lands, Housing and Urban Development, Nairobi City County Government, EAPCC, National Environment Management Authority(NEMA), National Construction Authority(NCA), Kenya Alliance of Resident Association(KARA) and key players in real Estate Industry.

Cases of poor construction and consequent collapse of structures in Kenya have reached and alarming rates. Causes include wrong concrete mix ratio and cost cutting. The forum seeks to increase awareness and ensure that those directly involved understand the dangers and what they can do to protect themselves and the residents who elected them to look after their welfare.

Speaking at the event, EAPCC head of production operation Joseph Kombo attributed part of the problem to shortcuts that compromise construction quality. He emphasized the need for awareness on adhering to regulations and proper ratio of the mixtures during the construction process to ensure safe and sustainable structures.

“Everyone has a role to play in preventing construction and occupation of poor quality buildings and the only way that we can all effectively participate is by first ensuring that the public and relevant stakeholders are better informed,” he added.

Ms Margaret Njuki, Chief Compliance officer at NEMA, added: Anytime a building comes up in your neighbourhood, the experts involved in the construction must consult the resident association representatives, as you are the ones living in the neighborhoods.”