MPs push for faster delivery of affordable housing, economic stimulus projects

MPs push for faster delivery of affordable housing, economic stimulus projects

Committee members expressed concern over the adequacy of essential facilities such as schools, hospitals, and other social services for the new housing estates.

Nairobi County’s ongoing Affordable Housing and Economic Stimulus Programme (ESP) projects have come under close scrutiny as members of the National Assembly Housing, Urban Planning, and Public Works Committee pressed for faster delivery.

The team, led by chairperson Johanna Ng’eno, visited several key sites across the city to assess progress and identify bottlenecks slowing completion.

During their inspections, the MPs toured the South B ESP Modern Market, Mukuru Meteorological Social Housing, Shauri Moyo A and B Affordable Housing developments, Jogoo Road Phase 1 Housing project, and the Riruta Modern ESP Market.

The visits allowed the committee to observe firsthand the construction pace and the readiness of social amenities that will serve future residents and market operators.

Committee members expressed concern over the adequacy of essential facilities such as schools, hospitals, and other social services for the new housing estates.

The Committee evaluating an ongoing project. (Photo: Handout)

Ng’eno stressed the importance of timely project delivery, pointing out that contractors should face no obstacles from payments or labour shortages.

“You have no challenge of payments nor labour, so these projects should not stall. This Committee expects that you complete the projects in good time,” Ng’eno told contractors during the tour.

The Shauri Moyo Affordable Housing site, which had previously faced construction halts, was noted to have resumed work, reflecting efforts to get delayed projects back on track.

According to the State Department for Housing and Urban Development, the stoppage was linked to a transition from the Public Private Partnership (PPP) approach to the Milestone Payment model, which also required adjustments to contracts.

The project site is situated about 300 meters from Jogoo Road, serving as the entrance to the Eastleigh suburbs.

It formerly consisted of 299 outdated single-storey houses, predominantly featuring single- and double-room units with shared sanitation facilities.

The State Department for Housing and Urban Development notes that converting the area into a contemporary, mixed-use development reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing Kenya’s housing stock while fostering dynamic and sustainable communities.

The contract period is 24 months, and the project is 12 per cent complete.

New Mukuru Housing Estate. (Photo: Handout)

Going further, the MPs encouraged housing officials to coordinate with local leaders to identify nearby schools suitable for expansion in areas where space is limited.

This, they said, would ensure children of incoming residents have access to education without major disruptions.

The week-long oversight exercise covers multiple Affordable Housing and ESP projects across Nairobi and Kiambu Counties, with the committee monitoring the pace and quality of work being done.

Other members who joined Ng’eno include Kakai Bisau (Kiminini), Joshua Kimilu (Kaiti), Caleb Mule (Machakos Town), and Jane Kagiri (Laikipia County). Dagoretti MP John Kiarie, local residents, and security personnel led by the County Commissioner were also present during the inspections.

The committee is scheduled to continue its evaluation of ongoing projects across Nairobi County, with further visits planned for Tuesday, October 28, 2025, as part of its effort to ensure public funds translate into the timely delivery of housing and market facilities.

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