Murang’a Sh308m affordable housing to ease congestion

Gakuru Muchiri (Second right), the director of affordable housing and markets in the Central region, with government officials at the site of the Sh308m affordable housing project in Murang'a town/ALICE WAITHERA

The government has commissioned a Sh308 million affordable housing project in Kiharu estate, near Murang’a town. 

Expected to drastically ease congestion, the project, on 2.5 acres of land, will comprise 165 units, including 60 social housing units.

The establishment of learning institutions such as Murang’a University of Technology and Pioneer University has created immense housing pressure, making accommodation difficult to find.

This pressure has driven developers to surrounding areas like Kabuta and Kambirwa, transforming these formerly agricultural zones into real estate hubs. 

Consequently, many households are subdividing land into plots for sale, adversely affecting local food production.

Gakuru Muchiri, the director of affordable housing and markets in the Central region, stated the project will relieve pressure from swelling urban populations. 

“These units will be fitted with internet and cooking gas. They will make it possible for tenants to live in a community and discourage further subdivision of land,” Muchiri said. 

He noted that local suppliers and youth will benefit from employment opportunities, boosting the town’s economy.

The government’s broader plan is to establish 10,000 housing units in the county. So far, 220 units have been constructed in Makenji, Kandara, with another 1,900 units underway on land ceded by Delmonte and for a future industrial city. 

“These houses will ensure the workers who are employed in the manufacturing plants that will be established on the special economic zone have adequate housing,” Muchiri added. 

Another 700 units are under construction in Makuyu, with projects pledged for Kangema, Kigumo and Kiria-ini.

Murang’a town’s hilly terrain has challenged its expansion, allowing economically vibrant towns like Kenol to overtake it. Many businesses, including malls and eateries, have chosen to establish their presence in Kenol instead.

Completed projects ready for hand-over are in Makenji, Meru, Kerugoya and Embu towns.

The government has reduced the required deposit from 10 per cent to five percent, with the Affordable Housing Board willing to facilitate those unable to raise the money.

“We have seen some good response so far. In Makenji, we have received over 1,000 applications for only 220 units. Those who are yet to apply for houses should do so,” he said.