Engineers have commenced a detailed geotechnical survey at the Affordable Housing Project (AHP) site in Majira, Chogoria, in a move aimed at ensuring structural safety and long-term durability of the planned housing units.
The Chogoria development aims to deliver thousands of housing units while maintaining strict engineering standards.
The investigation involves drilling boreholes up to 15 meters deep to assess soil composition and determine the most suitable foundation depth for the development.
Leading the exercise, geotechnical Eng. Muthoka Obadiah confirmed that “Within the first three metres, we encountered red clay soil, which may not adequately support high-rise buildings. However, we have struck solid rock beneath that layer, which provides a stable foundation base,” he said.
Over the years, Kenya has experienced several cases of building collapses often linked to poor foundation design and failure to conduct proper soil testing.
Experts say thorough geotechnical investigations like the one underway in Chogoria are key to preventing such tragedies.
According to the team, foundation design plays a critical role in preventing building failure.
Soil testing data collected during the survey will be analyzed in the laboratory and used by structural engineers to design foundations capable of supporting multistory housing units.
Eng. Muthoka notes that while foundation works can account for up to one-third of total construction costs, geotechnical investigations represent a small but crucial investment that significantly reduces the risk of structural collapse.
He lauded government efforts in maintaining professionalism in construction of the Affordable Housing Projects all over the country further highlighting that, “This is one of the major reasons why government projects and houses stand the test of time.”
“There must be respect for professional input from architects, structural engineers, quantity surveyors, and geotechnical experts. When all these disciplines are properly engaged, the result is a stable and lasting building,” he added.
With rock strata confirmed beneath the clay layer, project leaders express confidence that the housing units in Majira will meet structural integrity standards and stand the test of time, reinforcing the broader goal of providing quality, affordable homes for Kenyans.
