By Michelle Ndaga
As President William Ruto approaches the third anniversary of his tenure on September 13, 2025, his Affordable Housing Programme stands out as one of the administration’s signature initiatives, addressing Kenya’s housing deficit while generating thousands of jobs for the youth.
By 2023, the programme had launched approximately 36,000 housing units, with 124,000 more under development. The government has set an ambitious target of 200,000 units annually, aiming to provide affordable homes for middle- and low-income earners. Major projects are ongoing in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and selected counties across the country, reflecting a nationwide commitment to urban development and inclusivity.
The initiative has also significantly contributed to employment creation. Around 120,000 jobs were generated in the first eight months, rising to 200,000 by the end of 2024. In addition, 4,000 young professionals have benefited from internships in construction, project management, and urban planning, equipping the next generation with practical skills and work experience.
As Ruto’s administration nears its third year, the programme represents a tangible achievement in economic empowerment, addressing two critical challenges: housing affordability and youth unemployment. Analysts note that the initiative demonstrates the government’s efforts to translate policy into measurable impact, particularly in improving living standards and stimulating local economies through construction-related industries.
Looking forward, authorities emphasize continued transparency, efficiency, and timely delivery of homes, ensuring that the programme’s benefits reach the intended communities. For many Kenyans, the Affordable Housing Programme is a key marker of Ruto’s governance, showing progress toward a more inclusive and economically empowered society as the presidency enters its third year.
