Housing and Urban Development Principal Secretary (PS) Charles Hinga has called on Kenyans living abroad to take advantage of the government’s Affordable Housing Project, emphasizing that homeownership is no longer a privilege of a select few. Speaking in Cairo, Egypt, PS Hinga underscored the government’s commitment to transforming informal settlements into modern estates and providing dignified housing for all citizens.
The Affordable Housing Programme, a flagship initiative of President William Ruto’s administration, aims to address the growing housing crisis in Kenya. Hinga lamented that 70 percent of Kenyans currently reside in slums due to the rising cost of land, particularly in urban areas such as Nairobi. He reassured Kenyans in the diaspora that this project presents a viable investment opportunity, offering decent homes at accessible prices.
“We are now fixing a problem that has persisted for 60 years. Through the Affordable Housing Project, ordinary Kenyans can finally own homes, a privilege that was previously limited to a small portion of the population,” said Hinga. He stressed that this initiative not only provides housing solutions but also stimulates economic growth by creating jobs and fostering urban development.
Hinga was part of the delegation accompanying President William Ruto on his state visit to Egypt. While addressing Kenyans living in Cairo, he highlighted the transformative impact of the housing program, noting that it has already made significant progress. According to President Ruto, 4,800 housing units are currently on sale, with an additional 1,080 social units ready for occupation. Furthermore, more than 124,000 units are under construction, generating employment for over 250,000 youth across Kenya.
Beyond homeownership, the Affordable Housing Programme has been lauded for its far-reaching economic benefits. The PS noted that the initiative has created a multiplier effect, fostering job creation, improving public health, and enhancing overall household resilience. By investing in housing, the government is not only addressing shelter needs but also catalyzing sustainable economic growth.
During the visit, the Kenyan delegation toured Cairo’s Capital Gardens City, where Egypt has successfully built over one million housing units within four years. This ambitious project serves as an inspiration for Kenya’s own housing goals.
Investor David Obayo, based in Cairo, commended PS Hinga for his unwavering dedication to promoting the Affordable Housing Project. “Bwana PS, your consistency and commitment to educating Kenyans about this initiative have been remarkable. You have played a key role in ensuring its success,” Obayo remarked.
Hinga urged Kenyans abroad to seize this opportunity and invest in their homeland. He also acknowledged their economic contributions, emphasizing that they remain valuable ambassadors of Kenya’s development agenda. As the government continues to scale up housing projects, the call for diaspora investment remains stronger than ever.
