Ruiru: The government's multi-billion-shilling affordable housing projects in Ruiru and Thika are nearing completion, with the demand for the units soaring even before they are officially opened. In Ruiru, all the 1,050 housing units under the Sh1.8 billion affordable housing programme have already been sold out, two months ahead of completion.
According to Kenya News Agency, the National Assembly Committee on Housing, Urban Planning and Public Works, led by its Chairperson Johanna Ng'eno, toured the project and expressed satisfaction with the progress, noting that construction is within the set timelines and standards. Ng'eno said the early sell-out was proof that Kenyans have embraced the affordable housing initiative, dispelling earlier doubts about its viability. "The buyout confirms that the demand for affordable housing is massive. We are pleased to note that 80 percent of the buyers are ordinary Kenyans, the true hustlers, and not the wealthy as some had speculated," said the Emurua Dikirr MP.
He added that the committee's main goal is to ensure public funds are used prudently, expressing satisfaction with the quality of work and transparency of the process. Ruiru MP Simon King'ara, who accompanied the team, said the project has greatly benefited locals through job creation and business opportunities. "Many of our youth have secured casual jobs, and traders have been earning from selling food and other goods to workers. Once the new homeowners move in, the local economy will further expand," he said.
However, King'ara cautioned that with the expected population surge, there is a need to expand local schools, infrastructure, and health facilities to meet the new demand. Meanwhile, in Thika, over 4,000 affordable housing units spread across Starehe' Bustani, Depot, UTI, and Boma Orchard areas are 70 percent complete and are set for commissioning by June next year, according to Ng'eno.
He said the team was impressed by the quality of workmanship, noting that most of the remaining work involves interior finishes. "We have confirmed that the structures are stable and meet safety standards despite the ongoing rainy season. There is no threat of collapse," he said. Thika Town MP Alice Ng'ang'a lauded the initiative, saying hundreds of residents have benefited from casual jobs during construction. "These projects are transforming Thika by creating jobs, boosting local trade, and providing decent homes for our people," she said.
The affordable housing projects in Ruiru and Thika are part of the national government's broader plan to bridge the housing deficit and uplift living standards for low- and middle-income earners across the country.