Kisumu: The National Social Security Fund (NSSF) is partnering with the Kisumu County Government to construct 164 housing units at Milimani Estate, a project valued at Sh2.4 billion. This development will consist of 102 two-bedroom units and 62 three-bedroom apartments, complete with servant quarters, and is slated for completion in nine months.
According to Kenya News Agency, the project will integrate key infrastructure enhancements, such as improved water and sewer systems, paved walkways, and heightened security measures. This collaboration follows a recent agreement between Kisumu County and UN-Habitat to build low-cost housing worth Sh2.7 billion in Kibuye and Muhoroni.
Kisumu Governor Prof. Peter Anyang' Nyong'o expressed that this initiative is part of a broader strategy to rejuvenate old estates and transform Kisumu into a modern city. The governor emphasized the project's potential to generate immediate employment opportunities for Kisumu residents, stressing the importance of sourcing suppliers locally.
NSSF's managing trustee and CEO, Mr. David Koross, highlighted the importance of partnerships in real estate and construction, which now account for over 14% of Kenya's GDP. He described the project as a landmark partnership and a symbol of what is achievable through collaboration between government institutions.
The Kisumu housing project is part of several estate renewal efforts underway or planned across the county, including projects at Lumumba, Makasembo, Anderson, and Mosque estates, aligning with UN-Habitat's housing model standards. These efforts aim to address Kenya's urban housing challenges, characterized by rapid urbanization and a significant affordable housing deficit.
Kenya faces a complex housing dynamic, with strong real estate market growth driven by government initiatives like the Affordable Housing Programme, yet marred by challenges such as financing difficulties, high costs, and limited access to affordable land. These issues contribute to a persistent housing deficit and widespread housing poverty, with many urban residents living in overcrowded and substandard conditions.