Dar es Salaam, Tanzania: 13 fatalities due to building collapse

On Saturday, November 16, 2024, at approximately 9:00 a.m. local time, a four-storey building collapsed in the Kariakoo market area of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s commercial hub. The incident resulted in the deaths of 13 people, while many others were trapped beneath the debris. The building was a commercial center serving numerous businesses and customers; at least 100 people were inside the building at the time of the collapse. Fire and Rescue Brigade personnel, local police, and soldiers from the Tanzania People's Defense Force (TPDF) promptly arrived at the site

Through coordinated efforts, the teams managed to clear the rubble and rescue at least 80 people, 26 of whom are currently hospitalized. Rescue operations continued until Monday to ensure all trapped individuals were freed, as authorities were unsure of the building's exact capacity at the time of the collapse.

Additionally, the government expressed condolences and announced that it would cover medical expenses and assist with funeral arrangements. The cause of the collapse is not yet known, and an investigation is underway. However, authorities suggest that construction work to expand the underground spaces may have compromised the structure's stability. Notably, building collapses are common in African cities due to the lack of strict regulations and the prevalence of illegal construction activities.

President Hassan has ordered a thorough assessment of the buildings in the Kariakoo district and instructed the police to gather information on the ownership and permits related to the collapsed structure.