Emergency teams continue rescue efforts at the collapsed building along Eastleigh’s 9th Street.
The Health Ministry is coordinating emergency treatment and family support as rescuers search the rubble along Eastleigh’s 9th Street.
The Ministry of Health has established a 24-hour medical coordination desk at the Eastleigh building collapse scene. The desk will coordinate emergency care as teams continue searching for people feared trapped beneath the rubble.
Public Health and Professional Standards Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni said the ministry had activated disaster response protocols. It is also working with Nairobi City County to support those affected by the collapse.
During a Saturday morning visit, Muthoni said the ministry had deployed medical personnel from referral facilities. Their deployment will strengthen the county’s emergency response as rescuers search the multi-storey building along 9th Street.
Eastleigh building collapse medical response
The coordination desk will organise emergency services, facilitate referrals and help survivors receive timely treatment, the ministry said. Meanwhile, nearby health facilities are on alert to receive people who need urgent care.
The ministry is coordinating the medical response with the county government and other agencies involved in rescue efforts. These arrangements aim to keep medical assistance available throughout the operation.
Support for families seeking relatives
The ministry and Kenya Red Cross have also established stations offering medical assistance and emotional support. These stations will assist families seeking information about relatives as rescue teams work to locate missing people.
In addition, a separate desk will help families share and verify information about their relatives. The ministry said this arrangement would improve communication between affected families and emergency response agencies.
Authorities have urged families to remain calm and give emergency teams time to conduct rescue efforts. For now, the priorities remain rescue support, medical care and verified information for families.
Public urged to keep clear of rescue zone
However, the ministry cautioned the public against entering the rescue area without relevant training or instructions from responders. Muthoni urged people without specialised training to stay clear so emergency personnel can work safely.
The ministry also asked people following the operation to maintain a safe distance and obey response agencies’ directions. It said limiting access would help prevent further injuries and avoid interference with rescue work.
Separately, the ministry urged public health officers to watch for occupational hazards at buildings under construction. Officers should identify and report risks promptly to help protect workers and the public.
Authorities continue to assess the circumstances surrounding the collapse while emergency teams carry on with the rescue operation.
