Architectural Association Raises Red Flags Over Ruto’s Affordable Housing Programme
President William Ruto’s Affordable Housing Programme (AHP) has come under renewed criticism following his commissioning of 1,080 housing units in Mukuru, Nairobi. Leading professionals from the Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK) have raised red flags over the project’s quality, transparency, and long-term viability.
AAK President George Ndege accused the government of prioritizing financiers and contractors while sidelining built environment professionals—such as architects and urban planners—resulting in substandard housing and significant project delays.
“The current AHP model prioritizes financing and contractors while sidelining built environment professionals. This approach has resulted in poor-quality housing, stalled projects, and an ever-worsening housing deficit,” Ndege stated.
According to AAK, only about one per cent of the intended housing units have been completed, far below expectations. The experts argue that technical professionals must be engaged from the planning stages to ensure both affordability and sustainability.
The association has proposed the creation of an Affordable Housing Forum to guide planning and design, ensuring adherence to professional standards and better alignment with community needs.
Further concerns were raised regarding the Housing Levy’s accountability and whether housing allocations are reaching those most in need. AAK also criticized the current definition of affordability, saying it does not accurately reflect the economic realities of most Kenyan families.
Instead of fixed pricing, the experts recommend a flexible, income-based approach that allows families to gradually achieve home ownership in line with their financial capacity.
Supporting these concerns, Professor Alfred Omenya warned that Kenya may face challenges similar to South Africa, where affordable housing beneficiaries were forced to sell or lease their homes due to lack of essential services and financial hardships.
“Without proper education and support, new homeowners may struggle to sustain ownership, defeating the purpose of the programme,” Omenya cautioned.
Experts continue to urge the government to re-evaluate the AHP’s structure, integrate professional expertise, and improve policy transparency. With mounting concerns and limited progress, the success of the housing initiative hinges on its ability to adapt and deliver genuinely sustainable, inclusive housing for Kenyans.
PCS
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Architectural Association Raises Red Flags Over Ruto’s Affordable Housing Programme