Patients Evacuated as Kisii Hospital Block Is Declared Unsafe Over Structural Defects

Authorities at the Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital on Tuesday ordered an emergency evacuation of patients after one of the main buildings was declared structurally unsafe.

The abrupt move came after engineers raised alarm over visible cracks, sinking sections, and suspected foundation weaknesses that pose a potential risk of collapse. The block, which houses several critical departments, was immediately cordoned off as patients were moved to alternative wards within the facility.

Engineers Sound the Alarm

County officials confirmed that a swift structural inspection revealed serious defects that made the building unfit for occupancy.The team reported compromised pillars, water damage, and aging materials that may have worsened over time.“

Lives could be at risk if we continue admitting patients in a building whose stability cannot be guaranteed,” a senior engineer involved in the assessment said.

Patients, Staff Scramble for Safety

Medical staff worked quickly to relocate patients, including mothers, children, and high-dependency cases. Some were temporarily transferred to tents and adjacent blocks as the hospital reorganised space to prevent disruption of essential services.

Witnesses described chaotic scenes as families rushed to help move their loved ones before the condemned block was sealed off by security personnel.

County Government Responds

Kisii County’s health officials said the decision was necessary and unavoidable, adding that repairs or a total rebuilding of the block would be considered once a full structural audit is completed.

“We cannot gamble with safety. The building remains off-limits until experts declare it fit,” the county’s health department stated.

Public Over Construction Standards

The incident has reignited public concern over construction quality in public institutions, with residents demanding accountability from past contractors and county administrators

.Healthcare advocates have urged for swift action, warning that congestion in the remaining wards could compromise patient care.A comprehensive report is expected in the coming days to guide the county’s next steps. In the meantime, services will continue in temporary spaces as the hospital works to minimise disruption.

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Eunice Awino Awino

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