Plans are in top gear to commence the construction of the first phase of affordable housing units in Homa-Bay County.
Lands and Housing Cabinet Secretary (CS) Zakariah Njeru said the first phase of the project comprising of 110 housing units would be ready in the next one year.
The CS spoke Thursday when he handed over to the contractor the site located at Makongeni estate within Homa-Bay town.
The groundbreaking ceremony is expected to be presided over by President William Ruto at a later date.
Njeru said the government was also constructing non motorised transport lanes from Junction Kodoyo to Makongeni through Homa pier. “We will also put up a modern fish market in Homa-Bay town,” he added.
Njeru who was hosted by Governor Gladys Wanga said construction of affordable houses should begin before December 1.
The National Housing Corporation (NHC) had already signed an agreement with the Homa Bay County government to undertake construction.
The first phase will comprise 40 two-bedroom houses, 40 one-bedroom houses and 30 studios.
Njeru said the county government had availed an 11-acre parcel of land for the project and that the architectural drawings as well as all the necessary approvals were ready.
The CS said the contractor, Ernie Campbell Company Limited, would also put up a level three health facility within the site.
Ms. Wanga said the town is already served by a teaching and referral hospital and the health centre would boost health service provision to people who would occupy the units.
“We have a sewerage system already in place. What we are left with is water supply,” she said.
Other proposals at the site include putting up a shopping mall that will not only serve people living at the site but others from outside.
The Governor added that the construction would offer job opportunities to youths in Homa Bay County and urged the contractor to use locally available materials and labour.
“Homa Bay has plenty of sand and other building materials that can be used in the project. We also have artisans who can make good windows and doors for the project,” Ms Wanga said.
Homa-Bay County Commissioner Moses Lilan said adequate security measures had been put in place for the project.
He urged the contractor to deliver quality workmanship and work within the contract time lines.
By Davis Langat
