Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Sheriff Nassir has moved to reassure residents that the planned demolition of an unsafe 11-storey building will not compromise nearby infrastructure, including the vital Nyali Bridge. The building, which began sinking on April 2, 2025, has been deemed a hazard, prompting a military-led demolition operation expected to take nearly eight hours.
Governor Nassir emphasized that the demolition is a carefully calculated process designed to minimize risks to surrounding structures. “The Nyali Bridge will remain safe for use. Its structure will not be affected. The bridge is firm, and from our calculations, it will not be compromised. This is a very precise operation,” he stated. The bridge will be temporarily closed during the demolition as a precautionary measure.
Authorities have also assured residents and business owners in the vicinity that their properties will not be damaged. The governor urged those living or working near the site to vacate the area for their safety. “We have done all necessary preparations, and we are only asking people nearby to leave. Staying close could harm your body, and the noise may damage your ears,” Nassir cautioned.
The demolition, led by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), follows a gazette notice by Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya. Given the complexity of the operation, the demolition team has spent days assessing risks and planning to ensure precision.
The sinking building had raised concerns over structural integrity, forcing swift government intervention. With safety measures in place, authorities aim to complete the demolition without collateral damage, restoring normalcy to the area. Residents have been advised to cooperate with security personnel and avoid the marked exclusion zone until the operation concludes.
As Mombasa braces for the high-stakes demolition, the government remains confident in its execution, prioritizing public safety while safeguarding critical infrastructure.
