The construction of affordable housing at Kabati in Murang’a marks the beginning of the government’s commitment to push home ownership agenda
Lands and Housing Cabinet Secretary (CS) Alice Wahome has reiterated the government’s commitment to fully implement the affordable housing agenda, shining a spotlight on how, this year, the government is targeting to complete 200,000 house units.
On Wednesday, when the CS inspected the construction of affordable housing at Kabati in Murang’a, she said the funds to be utilized in the project will be realized through taxes.
“The houses must be completed in stipulated time and this will reduce the shortfall of housing units in the country. In every financial year, there is a target of house units to be completed,” she said.
Ms Wahome added that the government is working to amend the housing levy bill to align with the constitution.
“The levy in coming years will have huge impacts on Kenyans as they will own their houses,” she said, adding that at Makeji, for example, 220 units are being built in nine blocks spread in five acres of land located along the Nairobi Nyeri highway in Nguthuru village, Kandara.
The CS who was accompanied by Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu, and Eng. Benjamin Njenga, said there are active 33 housing projects countrywide that have engaged more than 100,000 youths, thus keeping them away from bad company and the influence of alcoholism.
On churches that were demolished to pave the way for the Makeji project, Wahome said they will be relocated to a portion of land given by the County Government of Murang’a.
“The two churches that fell within the Makeji project, will be constructed by the government as compensation,” said the CS.
On his part, Senator Nyutu stated that leaders from Mt Kenya region were keen on the Kenya Kwanza Government owing to many projects designed towards job opportunities, saving youth from indulging in alcoholism and crime.
“Housing is one of the key programmes that shortly will spur growth and development among the youth,” said the senator. – KNA
