KDF deployed to assist in demolishing sinking building in Mombasa

The Cabinet Secretary for Defence Soipan Tuya, has officially gazetted the deployment of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) personnel to support the demolition of a structurally unsafe building in Mombasa County.

The move follows a directive issued under Article 241(3)(b) of the Constitution and Section 34(2) of the Kenya Defence Forces Act.

According to the gazette notice, KDF officers were deployed on April 7, 2025, to assist the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, alongside the Mombasa County Government, in responding to an emergency involving a sinking eleven-storey building located at Kilifi Corner, Fayaz Estate along Abdel Nasser Road.

The building, situated on Plot No. XLVI/195/MI, began sinking on April 2, raising serious concerns for the safety of surrounding residential and commercial structures.

A detailed assessment by a multi-agency team, including the County Department of Lands, Urban Planning and Housing, and the National Building Inspectorate, led to the decision to demolish the building.

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Speaking on Tuesday, Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Sharrif Nassir underscored the urgency of the operation, calling it a critical measure to ensure public safety.

“This is a life-saving operation. We cannot and will not compromise on the safety of our people,” the governor stated.

Preparations for the demolition—set for 8:00 a.m. Wednesday—include the evacuation of 504 patients from the Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital.

Of these, 380 will be discharged, while the remaining 124 patients, including eight in intensive care, will be relocated to Utange and Port Reitz hospitals.

In addition, the governor ordered a mandatory evacuation within a 1.2-kilometre radius of the building. Affected areas include Digo Road, Hospital Road, Jomo Kenyatta Avenue, Mwembe Tayari, and parts of Ronald Ngala Road.

Beach Management Units have also been instructed to clear adjacent waters as a precautionary measure.

The County Government continues to coordinate with national agencies to mitigate risks and protect residents as the demolition proceeds.