Delays in payments to workers involved in the Affordable Housing project in Makenji, Murang’a County, have sparked unrest at the site, with multiple protests breaking out in recent weeks.
Construction workers, many of whom claim they have not received their wages for weeks, say frustrations boiled over as promises from site supervisors and relevant authorities failed to materialize.
A protest held on Saturday evening is said to have followed a similar demonstration that occurred two weeks earlier, during which some of the workers allegedly damaged sections of the site, including breaking a perimeter fence and vandalizing construction materials.
The discontent among the labourers stems from what they describe as a lack of transparency and accountability from contractors and project managers overseeing the housing scheme, which is part of the government’s flagship housing initiative.
Sources on the ground say the situation has been deteriorating steadily, with some fundis forced to abandon the site altogether due to lack of income, leaving parts of the project stalled.
The workers claim that attempts to raise the matter with site officials have been met with indifference and no clear communication has been given regarding when they can expect their dues.
Several affected labourers have privately expressed disappointment at what they see as systemic exploitation of their labour under a government-led programme that promised jobs and dignity.
The most recent protest has now drawn the attention of local residents and business owners, who fear continued disruptions could destabilize the area further.
They are now calling on the Ministry of Lands, Public Works, Housing and Urban Development to intervene, saying the silence from both county officials and contractors has only deepened their frustration.
“Hi Nyakundi. I am one of your followers. There is a problem with the Affordable Housing project (Murang’a County – Makenji). There are delays in paying fundis — generally, construction workers. There was a protest yesterday evening, and a similar one also happened two weeks ago. They broke the fence and destroyed property. Please address this. Up to now, there are people who haven’t been paid in weeks. Hide identity.”
