Two days after President William Ruto ceremoniously handed over more than 1,000 affordable housing units to residents of Mukuru kwa Njenga, only one family has moved in. This unexpected development has sparked debates about the allocation process and eligibility of beneficiaries, even as the government affirms that the official move-in date is set for June 1, 2025.
Delays and Allegations of Foul Play
The Affordable Housing Board, tasked with overseeing the Mukuru kwa Njenga project, has dismissed allegations that some of the listed beneficiaries are not genuine residents of the area. Acting CEO Shila Waweru clarified that while June 1 remains the formal move-in date, beneficiaries are free to occupy their units earlier if they choose.
“The delays are primarily due to ongoing utility installations to ensure the homes are fully equipped for comfortable living,” Waweru explained.
Out of the 1,080 units completed in the initial phase, only one has been occupied so far. The lone resident, Jerusha Muthoni, is already enjoying the comforts of her new home, a stark contrast to her former life in the informal settlements. However, her solitary move has raised pressing questions: Where are the other 1,079 beneficiaries?
Concerns from the Community
Amid the celebrations, concerns have emerged among Mukuru kwa Njenga residents. Some allege that the housing units may have been allocated to individuals who are not original inhabitants of the area, accusing the board of favoritism or irregular allocations.
The Affordable Housing Board has firmly denied these claims, insisting that all beneficiaries were selected fairly and transparently.
A Landmark Housing Initiative
The New Mukuru Housing Estate project is part of the government’s larger affordable housing agenda and aims to deliver a total of 13,248 units, making it one of the most ambitious housing programs in Kenya’s history.
President Ruto has emphasized the transformative potential of the project, which seeks to address the pressing housing deficit in urban areas and uplift the living standards of low-income families.
While the first phase of the project has faced logistical hiccups and public scrutiny, the government remains optimistic about its long-term impact.
What’s Next?
As the official move-in date approaches, all eyes will be on Mukuru kwa Njenga to see how the government handles the challenges of transparency and accessibility. With June 1 around the corner, the focus now shifts to ensuring that the housing initiative achieves its intended purpose of providing safe, affordable homes for deserving families.
