The challenge of affordable housing in Kenya is not just a matter of numbers; it’s a complex issue intertwined with economic growth, local industry development, and social equity. The Institute of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) has stepped up to address this challenge, advocating for a collaborative approach to enhance the monitoring and evaluation of the government’s affordable housing program. With the establishment of a Joint Research Centre, the IEK aims to optimize the delivery of housing projects while fostering local economic growth.
The Need for a Joint Research Centre
As Kenya grapples with a significant housing deficit—estimated at 250,000 units annually against a current supply of only 50,000—the role of the IEK becomes even more critical. IEK President Shammah Kiteme has articulated a vision for a Joint Research Centre or Secretariat that would operate in conjunction with the State Department for Housing and Urban Development. This center would serve as a focal point for monitoring and evaluating the various projects undertaken under the affordable housing initiative.
Kiteme emphasizes that such collaboration will not only ensure improved project delivery but also unlock an economic stimulus for local professionals in the engineering and construction sectors. By actively engaging in the monitoring and evaluation process, the IEK can facilitate a system of continuous improvement, capturing experiences and lessons that can inform future phases of the housing program.
Monitoring and Evaluation: A Pathway to Success
The establishment of the Joint Research Centre would enable the collection and analysis of critical data regarding the affordable housing program’s impact. Kiteme highlights several areas that require tracking, including:
- Impact on the Informal Labor Market: Understanding how the program affects informal employment can provide insights into broader economic dynamics and help identify opportunities for enhancing workers’ livelihoods.
- Gender Distribution of Employment: By monitoring employment patterns, the program can promote gender equality and empower women within the construction industry, addressing long-standing disparities.
- Indirect Employment Generated: The ripple effects of housing projects extend beyond direct employment; tracking indirect employment can reveal the program’s broader economic impact on communities.
By focusing on these critical data points, the Joint Research Centre can ensure that the affordable housing program aligns with Kenya’s economic and social goals.
Progress and Challenges in the Affordable Housing Program
Since its inception, the affordable housing program has delivered 1,189 homes, with an impressive 94,513 additional projects currently under implementation. The program has also created direct and indirect employment for approximately 29,000 individuals, illustrating its potential as a catalyst for economic development.
However, the government’s ambitious target of constructing an additional 500,000 affordable housing units underscores the enormity of the challenge at hand. The IEK’s proposal for the Joint Research Centre seeks to address these challenges by providing robust oversight and data-driven insights to guide the program’s implementation.
Local Sourcing: Strengthening the Manufacturing Sector
In tandem with the establishment of the Joint Research Centre, the IEK is advocating for increased sourcing of local products in the construction of affordable homes. Kiteme suggests that all components required for the housing program, including steel, cement, doors, hinges, and cables, should be manufactured or assembled locally. This shift towards local sourcing could yield significant benefits:
- Economic Growth: By fostering the growth of the local manufacturing industry, the government can stimulate economic activity and create jobs. This multiplier effect can significantly enhance the overall impact of the affordable housing initiative.
- Quality Control: Local production allows for better quality control and adherence to local standards, which can improve the overall quality of housing units.
- Sustainability: Sourcing materials locally reduces transportation costs and the associated carbon footprint, contributing to a more sustainable construction process.
Reviewing Engineers’ Fees: A Call for Fair Compensation
As the IEK champions the cause of affordable housing, it is also advocating for an upward review of the Engineers Scale of Fees, currently pegged at 2.5%. Kiteme argues that the existing fee structure does not adequately reflect the complexities and responsibilities involved in engineering projects, particularly in the context of large-scale initiatives like the affordable housing program.
An upward revision of fees would not only ensure fair compensation for engineers but also attract more professionals to participate in the housing initiative. A well-compensated workforce is more likely to produce high-quality work, which is essential for the successful delivery of the government’s ambitious housing goals.
Conclusion: A Collaborative Future for Affordable Housing in Kenya
The IEK’s proposals for a Joint Research Centre, local sourcing of construction materials, and an upward review of engineering fees underscore a comprehensive approach to addressing Kenya’s affordable housing crisis. By fostering collaboration between the government, local professionals, and industry stakeholders, the IEK is positioning itself as a key player in the ongoing efforts to alleviate the housing deficit.
As Kenya moves forward with its housing agenda, the recommendations put forth by the IEK can help ensure that the affordable housing program is not only successful in delivering homes but also contributes to the broader goals of economic empowerment and social equity. With careful monitoring and evaluation, the insights gained can drive continuous improvement, making the affordable housing initiative a model for sustainable development in the region.
In the words of Shammah Kiteme, capturing experiences and lessons learned will be crucial for the program’s success. By establishing the Joint Research Centre and committing to local sourcing, Kenya can transform its approach to affordable housing, creating a sustainable future for its citizens. As the country aims to bridge the housing gap, the collaborative efforts of institutions like the IEK will be vital in driving meaningful change.
