news 11 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
NBRB Report: Construction Failures Led to Mbale Building Collapse
A preliminary report from the National Building Review Board (NBRB) has identified significant construction failures as the cause of a deadly building collapse in Mbale City, which resulted in one fatality. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/construction-failures-caused-mbale-building-collapse-nbrb-report-5455146
A recent building collapse in Mbale City’s Kachumbala cell, Namakwekwe Estate, has been attributed to severe construction deficiencies, according to a preliminary report by the National Building Review Board (NBRB).
The incident tragically claimed the life of Andrew Wonyakara, a builder, and left several others injured. The NBRB’s investigation revealed that the structure, which was illegally converted from a semi-detached house into a multi-storey building, lacked essential documentation, including a building permit and approved architectural drawings.
Technical assessments highlighted critical flaws such as poor concrete quality, inadequate reinforcement bar placement, and an insufficiently shallow foundation. Investigators also noted a complete absence of professional supervision and poor workmanship throughout the construction process.
“Cutting corners in design, materials, or approvals puts lives at serious risk and leads to avoidable losses,” stated Mr. Herbert Zziwa, Communications Manager at the NBRB, emphasizing the importance of adhering to building standards.
The collapse has also brought scrutiny to Mbale City’s oversight mechanisms. Engineer Dan Mukhwana alleged that city council officials prioritize fee collection over site inspections, potentially allowing substandard work to proceed unchecked. Mbale City Clerk Abirebe has assured that investigations are ongoing, and accountability will be pursued for any officials involved in approving the structure, which had been under construction for roughly three years.