Introduction

There have been global efforts to promote a culture of disaster reduction, prevention, mitigation and preparedness in the building and construction sector. These efforts have created significant global awareness outcomes, acknowledging achievements and advocating for continued endeavour to foster disaster-resilient communities and nations. The increasing frequency of natural disasters, urbanization and climate change impacts necessitate a focused approach to enhancing the safety and resilience of our buildings and infrastructure in Kenya.

Building is one of the sub-set of the infrastructure sector in Kenya and entails the engagement of specialized professionals to oversee the planning, design and development of structures for human habitation. As a strategic pillar of the country’s economy, it is guided by processes and procedures governed by various legal, institutional and regulatory frameworks. 

Background on building industry in Kenya

With Kenya being one of the most disaster-prone countries in the Greater Horn of Africa, the Government has established legal and institutional frameworks to support and promote disaster risk reductions in the Country.

Buildings collapse (being the sudden structural failing, partially or entirely of a building) has been a source of concern to the National   and County Governments as it threatens human life, health, economic damage and property destruction. These collapses are caused by several factors, including poor workmanship, sub standards materials used in construction, inadequate supervision, poor-quality control, lack of proper maintenance, extra ordinary load and/or combination of causes. 

The increased frequency of these incidents highlighted the urgent need for enhanced building safety measures and effective mitigation strategies; therefore necessitating the setting up of the National Buildings inspectorate

MANDATE OF NBI

1. Under the Executive Order of the President, carry out Buildings inspection and audit; building safety and quality assurance; and where necessary, recommend legal actions including removal of dangerous structures.
2. Oversee implementation of Safety and Health in Construction Convention, 1988 (No. 167) in Kenya
3. Facilitate the implementation of resilient infrastructure principles enshrined in the Global target D of Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction and the African Regional Strategy for Disaster Risk Reduction in Building construction  in Kenya
4. Coordinate the Inter- Ministerial Steering Advisory Committee on Safe Construction Practices in Kenya
5. Promote safe construction practices, accelerate measures to reduce vulnerabilities and enhance resilience within the building sector in Kenya.
6. Coordinate the implementation of Goal 9 of Sustainable Development Goals focusing on innovation, safety and Business development in the building industry.
7. Support and where necessary, develop legal framework to improve Safety and Health of Occupants of buildings during and post-construction.
8. Coordinate  the mainstreaming of Climate Change in Buildings and Construction sector in Kenya in accordance with the Climate Change Act of 2016
9. Develop mechanisms to enhance accountability and shared responsibility among building industry stakeholders