Written By | Peter Luzinda
The incident occurred at around 3:00pm on Friday during ongoing construction works, when the structure suddenly gave way and collapsed, burying sections of the site in debris.
Search
Kawempe
At least nine people have been rescued following a building collapse in Kisota Zone, Kibaaye Parish, Kawempe Division, Kampala, while several others remain feared trapped under the rubble as rescue operations continue.
The incident occurred at around 3:00pm on Friday during ongoing construction works, when the structure suddenly gave way and collapsed, burying sections of the site in debris.
Nine rescued and taken for treatment
Emergency responders confirmed that nine individuals were pulled alive from the wreckage shortly after the collapse and rushed to nearby health facilities for medical attention.
Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Rachel Kawala said rescue teams were immediately deployed to the scene and are still conducting search operations to determine whether more victims remain trapped.
She noted that the exact number of missing persons and any possible fatalities has not yet been confirmed.
Search operations continue at the site
Police fire and rescue services, supported by local residents, have been working tirelessly to clear debris and search for survivors.
The operation remains challenging due to the large concrete slabs and unstable sections of the collapsed structure, which continue to slow down access to deeper parts of the site.
Heavy machinery has been brought in to assist in removing rubble, while responders continue careful manual searches to avoid further structural movement.
The area has been sealed off by authorities to allow uninterrupted rescue efforts and ensure safety.
Police open investigation
Authorities have launched investigations into the cause of the collapse, focusing on possible construction negligence, structural failure, or use of substandard materials.
Police also confirmed that efforts are underway to trace the site supervisor and other individuals connected to the project to assist with ongoing inquiries.
A full technical assessment will be conducted once rescue operations are completed.
Concerns over construction safety in Kampala
The incident adds to growing concerns over building safety in Kampala, where a number of similar collapses have been reported in recent years.
Authorities have repeatedly warned contractors and developers to comply with approved construction standards to prevent avoidable tragedies.
Rescue operations remain ongoing as families wait anxiously for updates on their missing relatives.
Torch Media Africa
