Vihiga: President Dr. William Ruto has announced an ambitious plan to expand affordable housing and accelerate infrastructural development in Vihiga County. Speaking during the Pentecostal Assemblies of God (PAG) church centenary celebrations at Nyang'ori, the Head of State said the government is targeting to build 10,000 affordable houses in the region by 2027.
According to Kenya News Agency, Ruto also expressed satisfaction with progress of the 220-unit Boma Yangu Vihiga Estate, which is now 96 percent complete, terming it a model project under the government's Affordable Housing Programme. "Our ambition is to deliver 200,000 affordable homes every year, not just as shelter, but also as engines of jobs," he said.
The president noted that the housing project would not only address the scarcity of land in the county but also create employment opportunities for local youth and artisans. Ruto further unveiled plans to modernise major markets across the county, saying Sh1.35 billion will be spent on market infrastructure including Sh360 million and Sh300 million for Luanda and Chavakali markets respectively, as well as other allocations for additional trading centres.
The government will also construct student hostels, part of which will benefit Vihiga County. "We are committed to ensuring that every Kenyan has access to decent housing, modern infrastructure, and opportunities for economic growth," he added. The president also announced that Sh760 million has been set aside for the construction of a modern stadium in Vihiga, with works expected to begin as early as next week.