Deadly collapse in Dar es Salaam: the tragedy of shoddy construction

On November 16, 2024, a four-story building collapsed in the busy Kariakoo neighborhood of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, killing at least 16 people and injuring dozens more.

A predictable drama in a crowded neighborhood

Kariakoo, the commercial heart of Dar es Salaam, is known for its bustling market and crowded streets. The collapse of the building occurred in the early morning as traders and shoppers poured in, amplifying the scale of the disaster. Witnesses described a chaotic scene, with screams of panic and clouds of dust filling the air.

Heroic relief in the face of adversity

Rescue teams, including firefighters, volunteers and members of the Tanzanian Red Cross, worked tirelessly to pull survivors from the rubble. More than 80 people were rescued, some seriously injured. Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila said people were still trapped in the basement of the building, without specifying the exact number.

Multiple causes: negligence and weather conditions

Building collapses are not uncommon in Tanzania, often attributed to violations of building codes and lax enforcement of regulations. The rainy season, which was underway at the time of the incident, further weakens poorly constructed structures. Witnesses reported that work on a basement extension had begun the day before the collapse, raising questions about safety and supervision at the construction sites.

Official reactions and upcoming measures

President Samia Suluhu Hassan expressed deep sorrow and ordered a comprehensive audit of buildings in the Kariakoo area. She also asked the police to verify the construction permits and ownership of the collapsed building. Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa attended the funerals of some of the victims and assured that rescue operations would continue day and night until all the trapped people were accounted for.

A recurring problem: construction safety in Tanzania

The incident is tragically reminiscent of the collapse of a 16-storey building in Dar es Salaam in 2013, which killed 36 people. Despite promises of reform and tighter controls, collapses continue to occur, highlighting persistent gaps in regulation and enforcement of building standards.

Calls for urgent action and increased accountability

Residents and experts are calling for a complete overhaul of construction practices and accountability of stakeholders. The need for strict enforcement of regulations and rigorous monitoring of construction sites is crucial to prevent such tragedies in the future.