In a bold step toward fulfilling its Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, the Cabinet has approved the Affordable Housing Regulations, 2024, setting the legal foundation for expanding access to home ownership for low- and middle-income Kenyans.
A key highlight of the newly endorsed framework is the reduction of the mandatory housing deposit from 10% to 5%, a move designed to lower the entry barrier for ordinary Kenyans aspiring to own homes.
The regulations also provide for structured deposit support for those unable to pay upfront, low-interest home loans, and equitable allocation across income groups.
The regulations will guide the planning, design, and maintenance of affordable and institutional housing across all 47 counties, while also providing mechanisms for long-term financing, estate upkeep, and provision of essential services.
President William Ruto, speaking at the Second Kenya Urban Forum in Naivasha, emphasized the transformative power of the programme in tackling Kenya’s housing crisis and revamping urban living standards.
“The government is determined to do away with the indignity and squalor in slums through the Affordable Housing Programme,” said Ruto. “It is not just about building houses, it’s about restoring dignity, creating jobs, and setting a firm foundation for inclusive growth.”
In response to political pushback, the President maintained the programme would continue uninterrupted.
“Sometimes it’s hard to understand why some leaders would oppose a project that employs thousands of young people and gives them hope of owning a decent home,” he stated.
He reiterated that his administration is focused on long-term socio-economic transformation over short-term populism.
“Leadership is about laying a foundation for future generations, not just political survival,” said Ruto.
The Affordable Housing Programme remains a central pillar of the Kenya Kwanza administration, promising both social impact and economic stimulus.
