By Shadrack Nyakoe
The government of Kenya has committed to releasing 4,888 affordable housing units by the end of March 2025.
This is part of an ongoing effort to address the country’s housing challenges, with plans to release between 4,000 and 5,000 units each quarter thereafter.
Speaking about the progress, Cabinet Secretary for Lands, Alice Wahome, highlighted that the majority of these units will be accessible to low-income earners, specifically those earning Sh20,000 or less. These individuals will be eligible for social housing, which is heavily subsidized to make it affordable.
However, Wahome made it clear that contributing to the Housing Levy does not guarantee an individual will own a house under the Boma Yangu initiative.
“The money you pay is not supposed to give you a house,” she said, emphasizing that the contributions are primarily meant to fund the construction of housing infrastructure, not to directly fund individual units.
The housing program is designed to provide various housing options at affordable rates. Social housing, for those earning less than Sh20,000, will be priced at rates that are significantly subsidized.
For instance, a studio apartment, covering 20 square meters, will cost around Sh640,000 with a monthly rent of Sh3,900.
Additionally, the initiative will cater to the lower-middle class with more affordable housing priced between Sh1 million and Sh3 million, depending on the size of the unit. The middle class will also be able to access affordable housing, with units starting from Sh2.4 million.
Wahome urged Kenyans to continue supporting the initiative, emphasizing that the government has a responsibility to drive the program despite some public reservations. While she expressed a desire for more support, she acknowledged the challenges in managing such a significant project.
The initiative is part of the government’s broader goal to reduce the country’s housing deficit, providing decent and affordable living spaces for all. The government has also partnered with financial institutions to offer favorable financing options for potential homeowners, with interest rates ranging from 3% to 9% based on income levels.
The government aims to make significant strides in addressing Kenya’s long-standing housing issues, offering hope to many who are in dire need of affordable and quality housing.
