Wamuzi News Ke
Residents of Maragua in Murang’a County are mourning the tragic death of a Grade Nine student from Gikomoro Primary School following the collapse of an old wall.
The incident occurred when 15-year-old Francis Gichuhi, walking home with classmates, stopped to tie his shoelaces near the school gate. At that moment, the deteriorating wall gave way, with a falling brick striking him before the entire structure collapsed, fatally trapping him. His classmates, unable to rescue him, fled to safety.
“The boy had stayed behind to tie his shoes when the wall suddenly gave way and buried him,” recounted Emily Karanja, a witness.
Locals have expressed frustration over the state of the wall, which had been standing for over two decades and was visibly unsafe. Many had expected it to collapse eventually, though no action was taken to prevent the tragedy.
“It’s devastating. That wall should have been demolished long ago and replaced with a safer structure,” lamented Peter Wanyoike, a resident.
According to the Physical and Land Use Planning Act, building owners are required to repair, secure, or remove structures deemed unsafe. If such action is not taken, authorities can intervene to prevent risks to public safety.
The rise in similar building collapses across the country has sparked calls for stricter adherence to construction laws and regulations. Authorities and construction professionals have been urged to prioritize safety to avoid future tragedies.
