news 6 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Mbale Building Collapse Highlights Flaws in Construction Regulation
A four-storey building in Mbale collapsed, killing one and injuring others, sparking warnings from engineers about numerous unsafe structures due to poor oversight and outdated urban plans. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/collapsed-mbale-building-exposes-gaps-in-construction-oversight-5448792
The recent collapse of a four-storey building in Mbale’s Namakwekwe suburb has claimed one life and left several injured, raising alarms over construction standards across the city.
Engineers and locals point to substandard materials, like inadequate 12mm reinforcement bars in load-bearing columns, unfit for such heights. Expert Dan Mukwana noted that stronger 16mm bars were needed, and heavy concrete slabs overwhelmed the weak supports.
City officials confirmed no approved plans existed for the building, with a 2024 halt notice ignored. An investigation is underway to probe breaches and accountability.
Leaders identify similar risks in suburbs like Namanyonyi, Musoto, and Namatala, blaming lax inspections under the Building Control Act, which requires checks before pouring concrete.
Mbale’s rapid growth since becoming a city in 2020 has outstripped its 2019 development plan, now covering twice the area without updates. Officials cite funding shortages delaying a new master plan, amid concerns over unplanned builds in road expansion zones and riverbanks.
Residents had flagged unsafe practices, including nighttime construction, with some structures slated for demolition.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)