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

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

Register today on Boma Yangu at www.bomayangu.go.ke or dial *832# to begin your journey toward affordable homeownership.

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

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

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.