Rescue teams in Tanzania’s commercial capital have entered a third day of efforts to save those trapped in the rubble of a four-story building that collapsed on Saturday, killing at least 13 people.

Authorities remain uncertain about the exact number of people still trapped under the debris. Local residents have reported losing contact with relatives they believe were inside the building, which housed dozens of shops in the bustling Kariakoo area.

So far, more than 80 people have been rescued, and over 20 are receiving medical treatment, with the government pledging to cover all medical expenses.

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan expressed her condolences on Sunday and directed authorities to take action to prevent future tragedies. She ordered a comprehensive audit of buildings in Kariakoo to ensure compliance with construction regulations.

“We need to identify and address the root causes of these incidents,” President Hassan said. She also instructed police to gather ownership and construction permits for the collapsed structure, signaling potential legal consequences for those responsible.

The collapse comes during Tanzania’s rainy season, a period often associated with building failures due to poor construction practices. Investigations into previous collapses have frequently revealed violations of building codes, such as substandard materials or the absence of proper permits.

Kariakoo, a popular trading hub, is densely packed with buildings, making it particularly vulnerable to such disasters.

Emergency teams, assisted by local volunteers, continue to comb through the debris with the hope of finding more survivors. However, officials warn that the chances of survival diminish with each passing day.

Rescue operations have been complicated by heavy rains, which have made the area unstable and dangerous for both rescuers and potential survivors.

Authorities have pledged to continue their efforts until all those trapped are accounted for, while citizens anxiously await news of their loved ones.

This tragedy has reignited concerns about building safety standards in Tanzania, with many calling for stricter enforcement of construction laws to prevent future loss of life.