First phase of affordable housing in Murang'a 20% done

@Alicewangechi

The first phase of affordable housing project in Murang’a County is 20 per cent complete.

The project that has 220 house units sits on two acres in Makenji in Kandara subcounty. It will be completed in December.

Central regional coordinator of affordable housing Albert Muchiri said the project will have about 100 two-bedroom units, 60 one-bedrooms and 60 bedsitters. 

He addressed Murang’a residents during a public participation forum at Technology Primary School. Muchiri said the government is also doing associated infrastructural development to benefit residents neighbouring the project.

In Kabati, an administration block and classrooms are being constructed at Makindi Primary school and a new ward established at Makenji health centre.

This, Muchiri said, will ensure the facilities are able to cater to the extra population that will be brought about by the housing project that sits near the Kenol-Thika highway.

He also announced that plans to commence affordable housing projects in other constituencies are at an advanced stage.

The government plans to construct 10, 000 affordable housing units in Murang’a by 2027.

In Gatanga, he said, 1, 000 units will be put up while in Maragua constituency, 400 units will be established at Makuyu. Kiharu and Kangema constituencies will each have 160 units.

“The government is looking for suitable land in Mathioya and Kigumo constituencies. This project has provided job opportunities for many locals, both directly and indirectly,” he said as he urged residents to support it.

About 300 youths have been employed at the Makenji site and construction materials sourced locally.

It is also benefiting locals selling food to the workers.

Assistant County Commissioner David Kasyoka, who chaired the forum, said although some residents expressed dissenting opinions on the project the  issues raised will be addressed by the appropriate government agencies.

Some of the issues raised included discontent with the 10 percent sum required for one to secure a house, as many said they could not afford.

Others said the government should instead help them to build homes on their farms instead of constructing the affordable houses.