KDF Gives Fresh Rescue Update on Collapsed Eastleigh Building as Search Continues

The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has confirmed that six survivors have been rescued from a collapsed building in Eastleigh, Nairobi, as emergency response teams continue searching for more people who may be trapped beneath the rubble.

The rescue operation is taking place along 9th Street, where a multi-storey building under construction collapsed on Friday, October 23, 2026. The incident triggered a multi-agency emergency response involving military personnel, police officers, firefighters and humanitarian organisations.

In an update published on Monday, October 26, the KDF said its specialised rescue teams had joined other emergency responders in efforts to locate survivors and provide assistance to those affected by the disaster.

The military has deployed Urban Search and Rescue teams, a Rapid Response Unit from the Kenya Air Force and canine units to support the operation.

The teams are using specialised equipment to clear debris, examine affected sections of the structure and access areas where people may still be trapped.

According to the KDF, two survivors were rescued during subsequent operations and were reported to be in stable condition before being referred to Kenyatta National Hospital for further medical attention and monitoring.

The rescue effort involves several agencies, including the National Police Service, Kenya Red Cross Society, Nairobi County Fire Brigade, National Disaster Management Unit, National Disaster Operations Centre, Ministry of Health and St John Ambulance.

Excavators and other heavy equipment provided by the KDF, National Youth Service and Nairobi City County are also supporting efforts to remove debris and create access routes for rescue personnel.

The General Officer Commanding Central Command, Major General William Kamoiro, visited the scene to assess the progress of the operation and engage emergency responders.

His visit came as teams continued working to establish whether more people remained trapped inside the collapsed structure.

The incident has also raised questions about building safety and compliance with construction regulations in Nairobi. Authorities are expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the collapse as investigations progress.

Meanwhile, rescue teams remain at the scene, with efforts focused on locating possible survivors and supporting families affected by the incident.

The public has been urged to keep away from the affected area to allow emergency personnel and specialised equipment to operate without obstruction.

The search-and-rescue operation remains ongoing as authorities work to account for people who may have been inside the building when it collapsed.