Affordable Housing project news Archives

Matuga Affordable Housing Project has Redefined Joy of Living in Kwale

Posted on March 20, 2025 by Kibaki Muthamia

The Matuga Affordable Housing Project (AHP) in Kwale County stands as a beacon of Kenya’s commitment to providing affordable housing and fostering socio-economic development.

This initiative aligns with the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), aiming to deliver both economic opportunities and affordable homes.

President William Ruto is assisted to lay the foundation stone during the launch of the Matuga Affordable Housing Project in Kwale (Image: Facebook)

Project Overview

Located in Kwale Town, Matuga Constituency, the Matuga AHP is designed to deliver 195 affordable housing units, complemented by eight commercial units, a kindergarten, a basketball pitch, and a playground.

The development offers one, two, and three-bedroom units, thoughtfully designed to reflect local architectural and cultural preferences, ensuring residents feel a deep connection to their community.

Economic and Social Impact

Beyond providing housing, the Matuga AHP is a transformative initiative at the heart of BETA, delivering both economic opportunities and affordable homes.

By actively engaging local youth and women, the project is creating employment opportunities, fostering skills development, and stimulating the local economy.

Alignment with National Housing Goals

The Matuga AHP is part of Kenya’s broader Affordable Housing Program, which seeks to address the housing deficit by constructing quality and affordable homes nationwide.

This initiative is crucial in spurring private developers to build more affordable housing and serves as a link between the demand for such homes among low- and middle-income individuals.

Community-Centric Amenities

The inclusion of amenities such as a kindergarten, commercial units, and recreational facilities like a basketball pitch and playground underscores the project’s holistic approach to community building.

These facilities are designed to enhance the quality of life for residents, providing spaces for education, commerce, and leisure.

Progress and Future Outlook

As of March 2025, the Matuga AHP progressing towards its goal of delivering 195 housing units.

The project’s completion is highly anticipated, with expectations that it will set a precedent for future affordable housing developments in the region.

In conclusion, the Matuga Affordable Housing Project exemplifies a comprehensive approach to affordable housing, integrating economic empowerment, cultural considerations, and community development.

It serves as a model for future initiatives aiming to address housing shortages while fostering socio-economic growth in Kenya.

To get a visual overview of the Matuga Affordable Housing Project, you can watch the following video:

Reclaiming Nairobi River: A Bold Plan to Restore the City’s Lifeline

Posted on March 13, 2025 by Kibaki Muthamia

For years, Nairobi River – once a vital artery of the city – has been reduced to a polluted, clogged waterway, barely recognizable as the lifeline it once was.

But, a transformative initiative is underway.

The Nairobi River Regeneration Project is setting the stage for one of the most ambitious environmental and urban renewal efforts in Kenya’s history.

President Ruto inspects progress on the Nairobi River reclamation near Dandora dumpsite. (Image: Facebook)

This is more than just a cleanup – it’s a complete re-engineering of the river’s role in Nairobi’s urban ecosystem.

At the core of the project is the construction of a 54-kilometer trunk sewer line, designed to prevent raw sewage from contaminating the water.

This will be complemented by comprehensive waste removal, unclogging efforts, and river widening to mitigate flooding.

But the vision goes far beyond environmental restoration. Along the river’s banks, a new urban landscape will emerge.

The plan includes over 50,000 social housing units, alongside community parks, public halls, and modern markets to serve Nairobi’s growing population.

Walkways and cycle lanes, complete with electrification for security, will redefine accessibility and public spaces along the riverfront.

President Ruto pictured alongside Nairobi politician, Bishop Wanjiru and other dignitaries in the Langata leg of the Presidential Tour. (Image: Facebook)

The infrastructure overhaul is equally ambitious, with 44 new vehicular and pedestrian bridges set to improve connectivity across the city.

Meanwhile, constructed wetlands will naturally purify the river, and an expanded Kariobangi wastewater treatment plant will enhance Nairobi’s capacity to manage sewage efficiently.

One of the most significant interventions is the rehabilitation of the Dandora dumpsite, a notorious environmental hazard.

Alongside this, a massive tree-planting initiative will stabilize riverbanks, combat soil erosion, and revive Nairobi River’s lost biodiversity.

Phase one of the project covers 27.2 kilometers, from Naivasha Road to Dandora Falls – with future phases set to extend restoration efforts further along the river’s course.

This initiative is a turning point for Nairobi.

If executed and sustained, it will not only restore Nairobi River to its former glory but also redefine urban life in the capital.

The challenge now is ensuring long-term commitment – from the government, private sector, and the citizens who call Nairobi home. The transformation has begun.

Will we sustain it?

Mid-Term Scorecard: President Ruto’s Progress on the Bottom-Up Economic Agenda

Posted on March 12, 2025March 12, 2025 by Kibaki Muthamia

At the halfway mark of President William Ruto’s first term, Kenya stands at a critical juncture, evaluating the successes and challenges of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) 2022-2027.

Designed to uplift millions at the base of the economic pyramid, BETA focuses on agriculture, MSMEs, affordable housing, healthcare, and digital transformation.

This mid-term review examines the administration’s key achievements, the impact on citizens, and areas requiring further intervention.

President Ruto, Vice President Kindiki interacts with IT students at an unidentified college (Image: Facebook)

1. Agriculture

Agriculture remains central to Kenya’s economy, and the administration has prioritized reducing production costs, stabilizing farmer incomes, and increasing output.

Key Achievements

Fertilizer Subsidy: The price of fertilizer dropped by 67%, from KES 7,500 in 2022 to KES 2,500 in 2025, boosting affordability for farmers.

Increased Maize Production: Output rose by 39%, from 61.7M 50-kg bags in 2022 to 85.7M in 2025.

Expansion of Livestock Insurance: The number of insured Tropical Livestock Units (TLUs) increased from 78,175 in 2022 to 649,518 in 2025, benefiting 1.6 million pastoralists.

Revival of Key Crops: Guaranteed Minimum Returns (GMR) introduced for dairy, sugarcane, wheat, macadamia, and miraa, stabilizing farmer incomes.

Impact and Challenges

These interventions have increased productivity, reduced dependency on imports, and improved food security. However, challenges persist, including climate-related risks and slow adoption of modern farming techniques.

2. MSME Economy

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are the backbone of Kenya’s economy, and the government has focused on easing financial access and reducing regulatory bottlenecks.

Key Achievements

Hustler Fund: KES 63.5 billion disbursed to 26.3 million individuals and KES 196.8 million to 58,630 small businesses.

Reduced Bureaucracy: Digital tax and regulatory compliance processes streamlined via eCitizen, reducing business registration time.

Market Access: 2,001 MSMEs facilitated to access local and regional markets, including subcontracting opportunities in the Affordable Housing Program.

Impact and Challenges

While the Hustler Fund has expanded financial inclusion, concerns over loan repayment rates and sustainability remain.

Additionally, informal businesses still struggle with licensing challenges.

President Ruto and other leaders inspecting progress at the Affordable Housing Project in Ruiru, Kiambu County (Image: Facebook)

3. Affordable Housing

Housing is a flagship priority, with the goal of delivering 250,000 affordable units annually.

Key Achievements

Affordable Housing Units: 130,988 units under construction in 2025, a 1,061% rise from 8,872 in 2022.

Job Creation: 206,000 new jobs created in construction, benefiting TVET graduates and Jua Kali artisans.

Expanded Mortgage Access: Low-cost mortgages under KES 10,000 introduced, with a 40% rise in refinanced mortgages since 2022.

Impact and Challenges

The housing sector has stimulated employment and investment, but land acquisition, financing, and public-private partnerships require strengthening to meet the ambitious targets.

4. Universal Health Coverage (UHC)

Healthcare reform has focused on expanding insurance coverage and improving service delivery.

Key Achievements

Social Health Insurance (SHI): Membership grew by 146%, from 8M NHIF members in 2022 to 19.7M under SHA in 2025.

Strengthening Primary Healthcare: 106,542 Community Health Promoters (CHPs) recruited and equipped, covering 8.5M households.

KEMSA Reform: 63% of medical supplies now sourced from local manufacturers, reducing reliance on imports.

Impact and Challenges

While healthcare access has improved, challenges include delays in full implementation of new health laws and initial operational inefficiencies in SHA.

5. Digital and Economic Growth

Kenya is positioning itself as a digital hub by expanding infrastructure and regulatory frameworks.

Key Achievements

E-Government Services: Expansion of digital identity systems and automation of public services.

Digital Jobs: Investment in online work programs and tech hubs to create employment for youth.

Impact and Challenges

The digital shift has improved efficiency, but cybersecurity risks and digital inclusion for marginalized groups need to be addressed.

Conclusion

At the mid-term mark, the Kenya Kwanza administration has made significant progress in key sectors, laying a foundation for economic transformation.

However, challenges such as financing gaps, climate resilience, and public-private sector collaboration require further attention.

The next phase will be critical in ensuring these gains translate into sustainable economic prosperity for all Kenyans.

Verdict

Progress has been made, but sustained effort is needed to fully realize the BETA vision.

Ruiru’s Affordable Housing Initiative: A Blueprint for Kenya’s Urban Future

Posted on March 7, 2025 by Kibaki Muthamia

Ruiru, a rapidly growing town in Kiambu County, is setting a remarkable example in addressing Kenya’s urban housing challenges through the Affordable Housing Program.

This initiative not only aims to provide quality homes but also to stimulate local economies and enhance the overall quality of life for its residents.

Ruiru AHP: An Overview

Launched in January 2023 by President William Ruto, the Ruiru Affordable Housing Project is also known as Kings Boma Estate.

It is a Ksh2.8 billion development strategically located near the Kenya Prisons Staff Training College along the Ruiru-Kiambu road.

Occupying approximately 2.47 hectares (about 6.1 acres), the site previously housed government pool residences, which were cleared to pave the way for this transformative project.

Project Specifications and Progress

The estate is designed to offer 1,050 housing units, catering to diverse housing needs:

1. Studio Apartments: 25 square meters, priced at Ksh1.25 million.

2. One-Bedroom Apartments: 30 units, each 40 square meters, priced at Ksh1.5 million.

3. Two-Bedroom Apartments: Various configurations ranging from 60 to 85 square meters, with prices between Ksh2 million and Ksh4.25 million.

4. Three-Bedroom Apartments: 80 units, each 85 square meters with a balcony, priced at Ksh4.7 million.

As of November 2023, the project had reached 40% completion, with an anticipated completion date of August 31, 2025.

Notably, 20% of the units (210 apartments) are reserved for civil servants, encouraging public sector participation in homeownership.

Economic and Social Impact

Beyond providing affordable housing, the project is poised to:

Create Employment

Generate approximately 3,000 direct jobs for both skilled and unskilled labor, boosting the local economy.

Enhance Infrastructure

Introduce amenities such as green spaces, children’s play areas, boreholes, and solar lighting for common areas, promoting sustainable living.

Ruiru: A Strategic Location

Ruiru’s appeal as a residential hub is bolstered by:

Accessibility

Proximity to Nairobi’s Central Business District (approximately 20-30 minutes via Thika Superhighway) and connectivity to major highways like the Eastern and Northern Bypasses.

Educational Institutions

Home to reputable schools and universities, including Zetech University and Kenyatta University.

Amenities

Availability of shopping centers, healthcare facilities, and recreational spots, ensuring a comfortable lifestyle for residents.

Conclusion

The Ruiru Affordable Housing Project exemplifies a collaborative effort between the government and private developers to tackle the housing deficit in Kenya.

By offering affordable, quality housing and enhancing urban infrastructure, Ruiru is not only transforming its landscape but also setting a precedent for other towns and cities to emulate in the quest for sustainable urban development.

There’s no time to waste. Register and apply for an housing unit on www.bomayangu.go.ke now.

My Story: Rhoda Musyoka’s Gamble Turns Her From Tenant to Homeowner

Posted on February 28, 2025 by Kibaki Muthamia

Owning a home in Nairobi feels like a far-fetched dream for many, a privilege reserved for the wealthy or those willing to take on decades of mortgage repayments.

For Rhoda Musyoka, a mother of five and a businesswoman, this dream seemed even more elusive – until she took a leap of faith with the Affordable Housing Program.

At first, she was sceptical. A house in Nairobi? At an affordable price?

It sounded too good to be true. But when, at a Chama meeting – the chairman introduced the initiative, she decided to listen.

The idea lingered, nagging at the back of her mind. Could this be her way out of the endless cycle of rent?

Rhoda Musyoka in the spacious kitchen in her Affordable Housing unit in Nairobi.

Sacrifice, Skepticism and a Bold Leap

Saving wasn’t easy. Like many Nairobians, Rhoda juggled multiple financial demands – school fees, food, daily expenses, and, of course, rent.

A three-bedroom rental in the city is no small expense, and the thought of setting aside extra money for a house seemed impossible.

But she couldn’t shake off the idea. She borrowed money from her sister, not even telling her what it was for.

She took a risk. Others hesitated, unsure if the project was real, but Rhoda chose to believe.

Then came the moment of truth. Her name appeared on the allocation list. A house, a real home, with her name on the contract!

Doubts turned to reality.

The Feeling of Waking Up in Your Own House

Now, Rhoda wakes up every morning in her house. No more worrying about landlords, unexpected rent hikes, or the stress of eviction.

Instead of pouring money into rent, she can invest in her children’s future, her business, and her peace of mind.

There’s something powerful about knowing that, no matter what happens, her family has a roof over their heads – a permanent one.

Rhoda Musyoka in her Affordable Housing apartment at the time of the interview.

A Message Worth Passing

Rhoda’s message is simple: Take the risk. Ignore the naysayers. Secure your future.

She encourages other single mothers and business owners to embrace the Boma Yangu project.

Not just as an investment, but as a chance to build something permanent for their children.

“One day,” she says, “my kids will decide what to do with this house. Rent it out, live in it – it’s theirs. But at least they will have an option.”

And that’s what affordable housing is about – giving people options, stability, and a future they can count on.

So, for every person hesitating on the side-lines, wondering if it’s worth it, Rhoda’s journey stands as proof: It’s real. It’s possible. And it’s life-changing.

Pay Rent for Life or Own a Unit? Let’s Settle This Debate!

Posted on February 20, 2025February 21, 2025 by Kibaki Muthamia

For decades, the question of whether to rent or buy has divided opinions. Some see renting as financial freedom – flexibility without long-term debt.

Others believe homeownership is the ultimate goal, a ticket to long-term stability and wealth creation.

Now, with the government’s Affordable Housing Program, this debate takes on a new urgency.

Should you continue renting indefinitely, or is now the time to secure your own home?

Let’s weigh the options.

The Case for Renting: Flexibility Over Commitment

Advocates for renting argue that it offers freedom – no mortgage pressure, no maintenance costs, and the ability to relocate whenever opportunities arise.

In major cities, renting allows people to live in prime locations without the burden of a hefty property purchase.

Plus, in a fast-changing economy, some fear the financial risks of homeownership. What if property values drop?

What if maintenance costs pile up? Renting avoids these uncertainties.

The Case for Homeownership: Building Equity, Securing the Future

On the other hand, homeownership is often seen as an investment in the future.

Instead of spending years paying rent with nothing to show for it, owning a home allows you to build equity – real value in an asset you can sell, pass down, or use for financial leverage.

Through the Affordable Housing Program, the government is making homeownership more accessible, offering structured payment plans that rival monthly rent.

The question is: If you’re already paying rent, why not direct that money toward owning your own home?

The Verdict? We Need Your Opinion!

This debate isn’t just theoretical – it affects real people making real financial decisions. So, we’re turning to you:

Would you rather pay rent for life or invest in your own home?

Vote below and let’s hear your thoughts!

No New Taxes in 2025? Treasury CS John Mbadi Says ‘Enough Is Enough’

Posted on February 7, 2025 by Kibaki Muthamia

In a rare moment of fiscal relief, Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has given Kenyans something to breathe easy about: no new tax hikes in the upcoming Finance Bill 2025.

Yes, you read that right – no adjustments to Value Added Tax (VAT), employment taxes, or other key levies.

CS Mbadi during a recent press briefing in Nairobi (Image: Files)

Speaking candidly with the Bunge la Wananchi caucus in Nairobi on February 3, Mbadi made it clear – the government has hit its taxation ceiling.

“We cannot overtax Kenyans anymore,” he declared. “There’s no more room for additional taxes, especially on employment income. Not under my watch.”

This announcement comes as a small but notable relief for many Kenyans already grappling with multiple deductions – from the Social Health Insurance Fund to the Affordable Housing Levy and other statutory contributions that chip away at take-home pay.

Speaking of the Affordable Housing Levy…

Let’s not forget that back in October 2023, the government secured court approval to enforce the 1.5% levy on gross salaries, with employers matching that amount – bringing the total deduction to 3%.

So while Mbadi’s declaration might ease fears of new taxes, the deductions already in place aren’t going anywhere.

Pension Funds Get a Break

On the bright side, Mbadi is also championing an amendment to the Pensions Fund Act, aiming to exempt pension savings from taxation.

His reasoning? A mix of personal and public interest:

“When I retire, I’d like to receive my pension in full – without surrendering a chunk of it to taxes. And I believe every Kenyan deserves the same.”

This move isn’t just about lightening the tax load.

It’s also designed to encourage a savings culture and offer better protection for retirees.

What This Means for You

While there’s no promise of tax reductions, the fact that the government is pressing pause on new tax hikes is significant.

It reflects growing recognition of the financial strain many Kenyans face.

But here’s the kicker: no new taxes doesn’t mean no existing burdens.

Deductions for health insurance, housing, and pensions will still apply. The real question is – will these measures be enough to ease the cost of living?

How Affordable Housing is Breathing Life into Rural Towns

Posted on January 30, 2025 by Kibaki Muthamia

For years, towns like Chepalungu in Bomet and Emgwen in Nandi County remained stagnant – low economic activity, dwindling opportunities, and a struggling workforce.

But, that’s changing.

The government’s Affordable Housing Programme (AHP) under the Bottom-Up Transformation Agenda (BETA) is not just building homes – it’s revitalizing entire communities.

An image of the Affordable Housing project in progress in Bomet County (Image: files)

A Welder’s Dream Revived

John Kipkorir, a welder in Bomet, once struggled to get orders, sometimes going an entire year without work.

But when AHP projects took off, his small juakali workshop transformed into a thriving business.

“I am now producing more than I ever imagined,” he says, grateful for the steady demand for construction materials.

From Grief to Self-Reliance

Chepkirui Joan, a widow and mother of two, had no stable income – until she saw an opportunity.

She set up a food kiosk near the Emgwen Affordable Housing project, selling chapatis, mandazis, and githeri to construction workers.

“I never imagined I’d stand on my own two feet again,” she says.

Now, she feeds her family and calls for the project to continue, knowing it’s giving ‘hustlers’ like her a chance to thrive.

More Jobs, Less Crime

Youth who were once idle, some even turning to crime, have found employment through the housing projects.

In Eldoret, Joyce Waceke, a civil engineering graduate, took a job as a casual laborer at the Kidiwo Affordable Housing project.

She was soon promoted to supervisor and now earns enough to support herself.

“I no longer rely on my parents,” she says.

At the Makenji site, project agent Michael Mwololo confirms that over 120 youth are engaged daily.

“This project has been a lifeline, keeping them from criminal gangs and alcoholism,” he explains.

A Boost for TVET Training

With housing projects demanding skilled labor, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions are experiencing increased enrollment.

In some counties, up to 250 skilled youth are working daily on these sites, learning, earning, and even launching their own businesses.

Kericho County Commissioner Gilbert Kitiyo highlights a drop in crime, gambling, and domestic violence, attributing it to youth involvement in the program.

“They must take part in this project – it’s changing lives.”

Beyond Construction: A New Economy

The Affordable Housing Programme is not just about shelter. It’s about economic mobility.

According to Lands and Housing CS Alice Wahome, housing projects are catalysts for local business growth.

Restaurants, milk vendors, and vegetable suppliers are emerging to meet the needs of the new workforce and future tenants.

Once these houses are occupied, a new wave of economic activity will follow – small traders, boda boda operators, and service providers will benefit, further injecting life into towns that were once asleep.

This is more than housing. It’s a transformation.

To learn more on affordable housing and how to register for a unit, log into the Boma Yangu website.

The Transformative Impact of the Affordable Housing Project on the NGOKAMKA Group

Posted on January 22, 2025 by Kibaki Muthamia

Kenya’s Jua Kali sector is the backbone of the country’s economy, providing jobs for 83% of the workforce, which translates to about 15 million people.

This vibrant sector, including clusters in Ngong Road, Kariobangi, and Kamukunji, is known for producing high-quality wood and metal products.

Juakali artisans under the Ngokamka Group hard at work in one of their workshops (Image: Files)

However, despite their skills, these artisans have long been excluded from participating in large-scale construction projects, limiting their growth potential.

Affordable Housing: A New Dawn for Jua Kali

The Affordable Housing Programme under the Big Four Agenda presented a unique chance for Jua Kali artisans to showcase their expertise.

The first pilot project at Park Road, Pangani, involving the construction of 1,300 housing units, opened the door for local artisans to supply metal and wooden doors.

This project aimed to bring artisans into the formal economy while addressing the housing needs of Kenyans.

Formation of Ngokamka Group

To participate in this groundbreaking initiative, the Ngong Road, Kariobangi, and Kamukunji clusters came together to form a new company called Ngokamka.

This union allowed them to bid for and execute contracts as a single entity. The name ‘Ngokamka‘ represents the unity of these three clusters.

Achievements of Ngokamka

With support from the State Department of Housing and Urban Development, Ngokamka delivered:

1,281 metal doors and 6,100 wooden doors for the Park Road project.
Completed their work ahead of schedule and within budget.
Enhanced skills, created jobs, and boosted incomes for participating artisans.

Impact on the Jua Kali Sector

The project had several benefits for artisans:

Increased Earnings: Many businesses saw higher revenues and hired more workers.
New Skills: Artisans learned advanced production techniques and gained insights into formal contracting.
Confidence and Visibility: The clusters gained confidence to bid for future projects and earned recognition from government leaders and partners.

Challenges and Lessons Learned

The project faced hurdles such as:

Lack of access to affordable financing for small businesses.
Raw material shortages due to a ban on logging.
Communication challenges within the clusters.

Despite these challenges, Ngokamka successfully navigated them with government support, showing the potential of Jua Kali artisans to contribute to national development.

The Future of Jua Kali in Kenya

The success of this pilot project sets the stage for greater involvement of the Jua Kali sector in government projects.

By standardizing housing inputs and building partnerships, Kenya can harness the full potential of its artisans.

The Affordable Housing Programme continues to prioritize local participation, ensuring that more Kenyans benefit economically while addressing the housing crisis.

A Message of Hope

Ngokamka’s journey shows that when opportunities and support are provided, Kenyan artisans can achieve remarkable success.

This is just the beginning of a brighter future for Kenya’s informal sector, with more doors opening for local businesses to thrive and grow.

Myth Buster: Seven Hard Truths to Know about The Affordable Housing Program

Posted on December 18, 2024December 17, 2024 by Kibaki Muthamia

Kenya’s Affordable Housing Program has been a cornerstone of the government’s economic transformation agenda, yet it remains shrouded in myths and misconceptions.

As the nation grapples with a housing deficit of 200,000 units annually, this initiative aims to bridge the gap by providing decent, safe, and affordable housing for citizens.

Let’s uncover the truth behind the common myths surrounding this ambitious program.

Myth 1: “The government is stealing from us through the housing levy tax.”

Truth:

The National Housing Levy, established under the Affordable Housing Levy Act of 2024, is managed transparently by the National Housing Fund.

This fund, overseen by the Affordable Housing Board under the State Department of Housing and Urban Development, ensures that every cent is accounted for.

While the levy doesn’t guarantee home ownership, it supports infrastructure development and subsidizes housing construction costs.

Myth 2: “Affordable homes are not so affordable.”

Truth:

The program caters to diverse income levels through three distinct categories:

• Social Housing: For low-income households.
• Affordable Housing: For middle and lower-middle-income earners.
• Market Housing: For higher-income earners.

This segmentation ensures that no one is left behind.

Myth 3: “The government is constructing these homes.”

Truth:

The Affordable Housing Program leverages Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs). The government provides land, bulk infrastructure, and tax incentives, while private developers finance and construct the homes.

This collaboration boosts economic growth while ensuring efficiency in project execution.

Myth 4: “Projects are only within Nairobi County.”

Truth:

Affordable housing is a nationwide initiative. Active projects are ongoing in 37 counties, including Bungoma, Nanyuki, Mombasa, Nakuru, and Nyeri.

The aim is to decentralize development and ensure every Kenyan has access to affordable housing.

Myth 5: “The housing levy directly contributes to owning an affordable housing unit.”

Truth:

While the levy supports the Affordable Housing Program, it doesn’t translate into automatic homeownership.

To own a home under this initiative, individuals must register on the Boma Yangu portal and start contributing. The levy funds broader infrastructure and development, creating an enabling environment for housing projects.

Myth 6: “My personal information isn’t safe and might be leaked.”

Truth:

Data privacy is a priority for the Boma Yangu platform, which adheres to the Kenya Data Protection Act of 2019.

Personal information is transmitted securely and handled with robust physical, electronic, and administrative safeguards to prevent breaches or misuse.

Myth 7: “These houses are reserved for senior government officials.”

Truth:

The allocation process is transparent and fair, guided by strict criteria. Every registered Kenyan is eligible, and individuals can only benefit once.

Factors such as family status, the amount saved, and demand across housing categories determine priority. No special privileges are extended to government officials.

Affordable Housing in Action

The Affordable Housing Program is a testament to Kenya’s commitment to addressing the housing crisis.

With 124,000 units at various stages of development and 75 active construction sites nationwide, the program is scaling up rapidly.

Over the next four years, it targets delivering an additional 730,000 units, narrowing the housing deficit significantly.

Beyond homeownership, the program boosts job creation and supports small and medium-sized businesses by stimulating demand and supply in the construction sector.

It also fosters economic growth through PPPs, showcasing how strategic collaboration can achieve national goals.

Start Your Homeownership Journey Now

Misinformation shouldn’t hold you back from owning your dream home. Kenya’s Affordable Housing Program is more than bricks and mortar – it’s about empowering citizens and transforming communities

How to Apply for Affordable Housing Units: A Step-by-Step Guide

Posted on October 19, 2024October 19, 2024 by Kibaki Muthamia

Finding affordable housing is becoming increasingly vital as more people seek secure and cost-effective homes.

The government’s Affordable Housing Program aims to tackle this issue.

Under the theme, “Boma Yangu: Housing the Nation, Empowering the Future“, the initiative seeks to provide citizens with access to affordable, modern homes.

Here’s everything you need to know to get started.

President Ruto inspects progress of the Affordable Housing Program in Nairobi (Image: Files)

Step 1: Register for the Housing Units

Before you can apply for a housing unit, you need to register on the official platform. Here’s what you’ll need:

An eCitizen account: If you don’t already have one, sign up on the eCitizen portal.

Be 18 years or older: Only individuals above the age of 18 can apply.

A valid national identity card: Ensure your ID is up to date.

Step 2: Save to Activate Your Account

After registering, your next step is to activate your account by saving a minimum of Ksh 200.

You can save any amount at any time and make multiple deposits to grow your savings over time.

Step 3: Owning a Housing Unit

Registered members will be notified when housing units become available, with priority given based on savings and registration status.

The Homeowner Journey: What Comes Next?

Once you’re registered and saving, your journey toward homeownership continues through a structured process:

1. Pre-Qualification

Your ID and income will be verified.

A credit profile review will ensure you’re eligible.

2. Contributions

Start making voluntary contributions toward your deposit.

These savings will help meet the deposit requirements for your chosen unit.

3. Application for a Unit

Select a housing unit and ensure you meet the deposit requirements.

Complete your profile on the Boma Yangu platform, and submit your application.

4. Allocation Process

The Board will review and allocate units to successful applicants, who will then receive an offer letter.

What are you waiting for?

The Affordable Housing and Urbanization Week is set to highlight these efforts. This is the perfect time to explore the opportunities offered by this program.

Start the process by dialing *832# now to register.

Alternatively, you can visit Boma Yangu website www.bomayangu.go.ke/ to register.

This initiative provides a clear pathway to secure housing, empowering Kenyans to take control of their homeownership journey.

Kisumu County: The Transformative Impact of the Lumumba Affordable Housing Project

Posted on August 28, 2024August 29, 2024 by Kibaki Muthamia

The Kenyan government is committed to creating a better future for its citizens by focusing on initiatives that directly benefit the people.

A key pillar of this commitment is the Affordable Housing Program, a flagship project that promises not just to build houses but to improve the quality of life for many Kenyans.

Basic Scope of the Lumumba Affordable Housing Project

At the centre of this initiative is the Lumumba Affordable Housing Project, a transformative development in Kisumu Central Constituency, Kisumu County.

Situated on land previously occupied by dilapidated housing, this ambitious project will deliver 2,384 residential units.

Representing a significant investment in the community, the project has a total cost of KSh 5.75 billion and includes a mix of social housing, affordable housing, and market-rate housing to cater to various income levels.

The Lumumba project emphasizes more than just constructing buildings; it’s about creating a sustainable and inclusive urban environment.

By integrating residential units with essential amenities such as waste management systems, guard houses, play areas, and parking spaces, the project enhances the quality of life for its residents.

Its strategic location near schools, commercial centers, and healthcare facilities ensures a comprehensive living experience.

Ultimate Catalyst for Economic Growth

A critical aspect of the Lumumba project is its potential to drive economic growth. The construction phase is generating substantial employment opportunities, with an average of 92 laborers working on-site daily.

These jobs support the local economy and provide much-needed income for families, stimulating overall economic activity in the region.

The project also serves as a catalyst for sustainable infrastructure development. The creation of new housing units requires the establishment of roads, water supply systems, sewage systems, and electricity, contributing to the overall development of the community.

This comprehensive approach ensures that the project’s benefits extend beyond housing, fostering broader community development and sustainable

The Empowerment and Social Inclusivity angle

The Lumumba Affordable Housing Project exemplifies the government’s dedication to fostering social inclusivity and empowering marginalized groups.

By offering affordable housing options, the project allows low- and middle-income families to own or rent homes, providing stability and a sense of belonging.

This inclusivity fosters social cohesion, ensuring that residents feel connected and invested in their community.

Additionally, the project’s focus on social housing guarantees that vulnerable populations, including marginalized groups, have access to decent housing.

This approach aligns with the government’s broader vision of an inclusive society where all Kenyans, regardless of their socio-economic status, have access to safe, secure, and affordable housing.

Boost to the Quality of Life

Adequate housing is fundamental to the well-being of individuals and communities. The Lumumba project aims to provide well-designed, safe, and secure homes, significantly enhancing residents’ quality of life.

Children will benefit from stable environments that support learning and development, while families will enjoy spaces that promote safety, comfort, and well-being, creating a community where everyone can thrive.

The Tentative Overall Vision

The Affordable Housing Program, as demonstrated by the Lumumba project, showcases the government’s vision for a prosperous and inclusive Kenya.

It addresses the growing demand for housing and supports sustainable development, economic empowerment, and social inclusivity.

As similar projects are rolled out across the country, the government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens becomes increasingly evident.

In a Nutshell…..

By investing in affordable housing, the government is laying the foundation for a future where every Kenyan has the opportunity to live with dignity and hope.

The Lumumba Affordable Housing Project is a beacon of that future, paving the way towards a more equitable and prosperous Kenya.