State to push on Housing agenda

Murang’a,

Thursday, January 4, 2024

KNA by Bernard Munyao

Lands and Housing Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome has reiterated the government's commitment to fully implement the affordable housing agenda.

On Wednesday speaking when she inspected the construction of affordable housing at Kabati in Murang’a, Wahome said the funds to be utilized in the project will be realized through taxes saying the houses are meant to benefit low-income earners.

She faulted the Judiciary for issuing contradicting orders which she said were targeted to derail the programme.

The CS noted that the orders by the Judiciary must be issued within a certain environment saying construction of affordable houses in various parts of the country has kicked off and the programme will not be stopped.

This year, Wahome observed the government is targeting to complete 200, 000 house units.

“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 noted.

She continued “We know where we are shooting the ball as sabotage will make the government seem ineffective and the environment right now is the housing programme is on course.”

The CS averred that she is strongly behind the president to ensure the government agenda is not sabotaged by ‘corrupt’ members of the judiciary.

She revealed the government is working to amend the housing levy bill to conform to the constitution. (The levy in coming years will have huge impacts on Kenyans as they will own their houses,” she added.

At Makeji 220 units are being built in nine blocks spread in five acres of land located along the Nairobi Nyeri highway in Nguthuru village in Kandara.

The CS who was accompanied by Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu, and Eng. Benjamin Njenga, revealed that 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.

“The most interesting thing is that governors from the opposition areas are calling my Ministry seeking immediate construction of the affordable houses, for their people,” said Wahome who castigated politicians and individuals who are against the government-designed programmes.

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.

Courtesy; KNA