By Michelle Ndaga
President William Ruto has announced that the government will expand the use of the housing levy to finance the construction of hostels in universities and colleges across the country.So far, 11,000 housing units have been completed, while the programme continues with 150,000 units under construction, and over 150,000 more planned.The programme has generated over 250,000 jobs, catalyzing youth employment, Jua-Kali enterprises, and small- and medium-scale suppliers
Speaking in Homa Bay during the launch of a 588-unit hostel at Tom Mboya University, the President said the move is part of a national rollout aimed at easing the accommodation crisis in higher learning institutions. Further easing access to housing, Ruto introduced a new home-loan facility that would allow housing levy contributors to borrow up to KSh 5 million at single-digit interest rates—usable for any home on the market or to offset existing mortgage debt
Ruto reaffirmed that housing levy deductions will continue despite growing public concern, insisting the funds will be put to projects that directly benefit Kenyans, including students.He also recently pledged that members of the Harambee Stars national football team will each receive a house in recognition of their service to the country. This promise ties into the broader goal of ensuring contributors and exemplary citizens share in the levy’s benefits.
