Affordable Housing Initiative Aims to Improve Living Conditions and Expand Opportunities

The Affordable Housing Initiative (AHI), spearheaded by the national government, aims to enhance living conditions across the country. Rooted in the constitutional right to accessible and adequate housing, the program is designed not merely to provide shelter but to foster improved living standards for low-income families.

John Karanja, the Coast Region Coordinator for Housing, emphasizes that the AHI is focused on creating substantial opportunities for better living conditions, not just building houses. He highlights that the need for decent housing remains acute, prompting the government to launch extensive housing projects aimed at addressing the urban housing crisis.

Karanja underscores the significance of affordable and sustainable housing, noting its impact on the economic development of all 47 counties. He describes affordable housing as a catalyst for job creation and poverty reduction, crucial for building resilient communities where every person can have a place to call home.

During a recent visit to Kwale, Karanja led a regional technical committee to evaluate the status of various affordable housing projects in the area. His visit was intended to provide a direct assessment of the government’s initiatives in Kwale, and he expressed optimism about their progress and potential benefits.

“The affordable housing efforts will ultimately enhance the quality of life for communities by promoting better urban development, social cohesion, and economic opportunities,” Karanja said. The technical committee, after reviewing the sites, was pleased with the progress and quality of work, noting that the projects are advancing as planned in their initial phase.

The AHI’s rent-to-own schemes are designed to address the country’s housing deficit while incorporating essential infrastructure. These developments include internal roads, electricity, water supply, sports facilities, shopping centers, schools, and clinics, making the housing estates more livable.

In Kwale County, proposed housing sites include Survey Camp with 200 units, Diani Whitehouse with 200 units, and Mabokoni Smart City with 1,000 units. Additionally, the construction of the Sh200 million Diani produce market aims to create a favorable business environment for local traders, thereby boosting the county’s revenue and supporting economic growth.

Karanja, accompanied by Kwale’s Director of Housing Ezekiel Muiruri, reaffirmed the State Department for Housing and Urban Development’s commitment to completing these multimillion-shilling projects within their scheduled timeframe. For instance, the Kwale housing projects, which commenced in July 2024, are expected to be completed by December 2025, with the assurance of durable housing units.

Despite challenges related to funding, Karanja noted that the government remains dedicated to increasing the housing stock and addressing the national housing deficit. Governor Fatuma Achani of Kwale emphasized the county’s collaboration with the national government and other stakeholders to address the housing needs comprehensively. She praised the ongoing projects and urged contractors to adhere to deadlines, ensuring that the community can benefit from the new houses and markets promptly.

“We are confident that these housing developments will set a new benchmark for affordable housing in the country, offering quality and cost-effective living spaces for our residents,” Governor Achani stated. She also highlighted the creation of numerous job opportunities for youth through the housing projects, which has positively impacted many families.

Achani added that the construction of new homes and major infrastructure in urban areas is expected to drive further development and attract investment opportunities throughout the counties.

President William Ruto, who inaugurated the Kwale affordable housing projects in July 2024, reiterated the government’s dedication to providing affordable housing solutions and moving closer to the vision of universal housing access and improved citizen welfare.