More than 550,000 Kenyans have registered to own affordable housing units under the government’s ambitious Affordable Housing Programme, surpassing the planned units for the first phase of the project, according to Housing and Urban Development Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome.
Speaking on Friday during an inspection tour in Murang’a County, Wahome highlighted that the government has already constructed 124,000 housing units, a combination of completed and ongoing projects. She emphasized that this marks significant progress toward the government’s annual target of delivering 200,000 housing units.
“These are the units that are either complete or are ongoing,” said Wahome, adding that the Kenya Kwanza administration aims to deliver one million housing units by the end of its term.
High Uptake of Government Programmes
The large number of registrations is a testament to the demand for affordable housing in the country despite some public skepticism. Wahome urged Kenyans to embrace the initiative and avoid being swayed by critics.
“Do not take seriously those who are dismissing these projects because you may end up losing while others benefit,” she said.
Affordable Housing in Murang’a County
In Murang’a County, the government is constructing 220 units in the Makenji area along the Kenol-Thika highway, just a few kilometers from Thika town. These units include:
- 100 two-bedroom houses
- 60 three-bedroom houses
- 60 one-bedroom houses
Prices range from Ksh1 million to Ksh3 million, making them accessible to a broad spectrum of Kenyans.
Additionally, Wahome presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for 1,910 new units to be built on land ceded to the county government by Delmonte, a fruit processing company.
Five-Year Housing Plan
The Murang’a County government plans to construct 10,000 housing units over the next five years in various areas, including:
- Kangema
- Gatunyu in Gatanga Constituency
- Kiriaini in Mathioya
- Kabati in Kandara
- Kangari in Kigumo
This expansive program is designed to address housing deficits and stimulate local economies.
Youth Employment Opportunities
In addition to providing affordable housing, the initiative is set to create significant employment opportunities. In Murang’a County alone, 5,000 youths are expected to benefit from jobs related to the construction projects. Nationwide, over 165,000 jobs will be generated, ranging from skilled to unskilled labor.
Addressing Housing Needs
The Affordable Housing Programme is part of the government’s larger agenda to improve living conditions for Kenyans while addressing the growing urban population’s housing demands. The program also aligns with President William Ruto’s pledge to prioritize housing development as a key driver of economic growth.
The success of the program’s first phase indicates widespread support, despite initial resistance from some quarters. By surpassing registration targets, the initiative underscores the urgent need for sustainable housing solutions in the country.
Looking Ahead
As construction continues across the country, the government is optimistic about meeting its target of one million affordable housing units. Wahome expressed confidence in the program’s ability to enhance the lives of ordinary Kenyans and contribute to national economic development.
By providing affordable housing options and creating job opportunities, the government aims to build not just homes but also a more equitable society.
