This archive report was first published on 7 December 2019.
On Friday, President Uhuru Kenyatta launched the construction of 8,888 houses in Mavoko, Machakos County, under the affordable housing programme, a key component of his Big Four agenda.
As part of the initiative, the government aims to provide affordable housing to Kenyans, with the President emphasizing that modern decent housing is crucial for the nation's prosperity.
"Kenya falls short of decent affordable houses by international parameters, but my administration is focused on partnering with the private sector to address the problem," the President said, adding that low-cost houses should not be translated to mean cheap substandard houses but quality houses for the people.
President Kenyatta also urged investors to use locally made raw materials to boost the country's manufacturing industry and create jobs for local youth at construction sites.
"My administration will continue extending incentives, including free land, and waiving some taxes to investors eyeing the housing sector to entice them into working with the government," he added.
The Sh50 billion project, funded by the United Nations through the Habitat Heights company, is expected to be completed in 18 months and will comprise 972 one-bedroom units, 2,912 two-bedroom units, 4,368 three-bedroom units, 60 retail shop units, and other amenities.
Transport, Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development Cabinet Secretary James Macharia hailed the project as a pacesetter in ensuring the affordable housing programme succeeds.
