Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has donated a five-acre parcel of land in Kisumu to the national government for the construction of affordable housing units, in a move hailed by many as a significant boost to efforts aimed at addressing Kenya’s housing crisis.
The land, located in the Kirembe area of Kisumu County, is expected to host part of a larger government project that will deliver up to 15,000 affordable housing units in the region.
President Ruto confirmed the government’s plan to inject Ksh.3.5 billion into the development of the donated land. The funds will be used to construct modern housing units targeting low- and middle-income earners in the city.
The initiative is part of the Affordable Housing Programme, a national policy aimed at reducing the country’s housing deficit, currently estimated at over two million units.
The housing development is expected to benefit at least 1,000 local residents, offering them access to decent and affordable living spaces. The project will also include critical public amenities such as schools, healthcare facilities, and markets, aimed at building a holistic living environment.
Construction of the housing units is projected to create hundreds of jobs for local artisans, contractors, and service providers. The economic ripple effect is expected to stimulate small businesses and infrastructure development in the surrounding areas.
Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o praised the project, calling it a “timely intervention” that aligns with the county’s urban development agenda.
The occasion saw political rivals Ruto and Odinga share a podium, sending a rare message of political unity focused on development.
Their joint commitment to the housing agenda drew applause from attendees and was widely covered in national media as a gesture of goodwill and collaboration.
Kenyans across social media platforms welcomed the news with praise for Odinga’s donation, viewing it as a noble gesture that transcends political divisions.
Civil society groups and housing advocates also lauded the move, calling on other leaders and landowners to follow suit.
While optimism surrounds the project, challenges such as bureaucratic delays, land verification processes, and construction logistics may slow implementation. However, both national and county officials expressed confidence that the project would be delivered on time and within budget.
The Kisumu housing development is one of several being launched across the country as part of the government’s broader plan to make housing more accessible.
With growing urban populations and rising rent prices, affordable housing has become a priority for Kenya’s Vision 2030 development blueprint.
