news 6 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Kisasi Building Collapse: Three Bodies Recovered, Authorities Hunt Owner and Engineer
Rescue efforts in Kisasi have recovered three bodies following the collapse of an illegal, under-construction building. Police are now searching for the site owner and engineer amid scrutiny of KCCA's enforcement. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/kisasi-building-collapse-three-bodies-recovered-so-far-as-police-hunt-owner-site-engineer-5487518
Rescue teams continue to search through the rubble of a collapsed multi-storey building in Kisasi, with the death toll now reaching three by Saturday evening. Nine individuals were rescued and are currently receiving medical attention.
The three-story structure, which had been under construction for approximately eight months, unexpectedly caved in on Friday afternoon. The collapse, which reportedly started from the top floor, trapped several construction workers.
Official sources confirm that two of the deceased have been identified as Jonathan Kivumbi and James, also known as “Rasta.” The identity of the third victim, an adult male, is still pending. Their remains have been taken to Mulago City mortuary for further examination.
The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has stated that the building was being constructed illegally, as its plans were never approved. A stop notice was issued in April, but the developers allegedly ignored it, continuing construction, often at night to avoid detection.
Police have initiated a manhunt for the site owner and the site engineer, emphasizing the need for them to produce approved plans and their professional qualifications. A criminal investigation into negligence has been launched.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about regulatory oversight and enforcement within Kampala’s construction sector. Data from the National Building Review Board shows a concerning trend of structural failures in Uganda, with dozens of such incidents recorded in recent years, leading to numerous fatalities.
Critics argue that despite new legislation increasing penalties for non-compliance, the effectiveness hinges on robust, proactive site supervision by KCCA, rather than solely reactive measures after disasters occur.