Kirinyaga County is one of the counties selected for the implementation of the affordable housing program in partnership with the national government.
Consequently, preparations for the same has been initiated by the county government in Kerugoya town.
Kerugoya will get over 500 units in addition to other county’s major towns including Wang’uru and Sagana, where the same program will be rolled out.
Kirinyaga county governor Anne Waiguru said it was an honor to be selected for affordable housing and construction of an industrial park in Sagana, which will boost the economy of the county.
She said the county government will partner with the national government through Kirinyaga Investment Development Authority (KIDA) to ensure residents benefit not only from the houses, but also job opportunities during the implementation process.
Speaking during supervision of removal and disposal of asbestos from old construction in Kerugoya, the director of Housing Samwel Mwangi said they are preparing the land in readiness for the launch of the program.
The director noted the removal of asbestos is guided by the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) regulations and the county must comply with the same.
“These old houses were built long time ago, removal of asbestos is done under NEMA rules before demolition, we are here to supervise that all procedures are followed,” he said.
Meanwhile, the old buildings that were originally occupied by the civil servants are being demolished to pave way for the new houses.
Chief Executive Member (CEC) for Transport and Housing in Kirinyaga, Jared Migwi, said the six-acre piece of land in Kerugoya will provide space for houses targeting all people.
He acknowledged the concept of house ownership as an idea that will transform the livelihoods of many.
“Affordable housing is one of the key pillars of the Kenya Kwanza government and will change the lives of many through job creation and getting decent housing. This space we are creating will host units that will be available for everybody,” Migwi said.
Ayub Kibara, Chief Officer, said the houses will target all people, but for Sagana they will prioritize those working in the industrial park.
“All can buy a house here like in any other place. The houses to be constructed in Sagana will mainly target those who will be working on Industrial Park because we will have a large population there,” he said.
By Mutai Kipngetich
