The Kenyan government has advertised for developers to construct 12,500 affordable houses in Kiambu County. The houses will be developed under a rental purchase scheme targeting the residents within the urban periphery of Nairobi.
Kiambu Governor Mr. Ferdinand Waititu who confirmed the reports, said that the county has invited developers to present proposals for setting up the houses on 50 acres of public land in Kiambu, Kikuyu, Limuru, Ruiru and Thika for locals.
“Kiambu County is proposing to undertake a 50-acre, 12,500 units affordable housing project by 2022 on government land where old houses will be demolished to pave way for the new units. Existing tenants will be given a unit each at no cost,” he said.
He further said that the proposed affordable housing project will include US $300k to be spent on putting up 43 housing units for existing tenants at Thika Government Quarters near the stadium. The quarters will be demolished to pave way for an industrial park.
The governor explained that the project will be undertaken within the existing estates which consist of old dilapidated houses and structures, as well as new sites acquired by the county government.
Each acre of land is expected to host a total of 240 housing units with ample space set aside for greening, parking and children playing areas.
Neighbouring Nairobi County has recently proposed to break ground for 36,840 housing units in Starehe A and B, Park Road, Muguga Green, Shauri Moyo A, B & C and Makongeni estates.
The initiative by Kiambu could benefit from its proximity to the capital which makes it attractive for workers looking to avoid the hustle of long commuting hours to and from the Nairobi.
