President William Ruto has reiterated his unwavering commitment to transforming Kenya, with the Affordable Housing Programme serving as a key pillar of his development agenda.
Speaking during the Second Kenya Urban Forum in Naivasha, Nakuru County, the President declared that no amount of criticism or propaganda would derail his mission to deliver decent housing and urban development for Kenyans.
“I cannot be distracted; I am a man on a mission to transform this country. No amount of noise and propaganda will sway me from delivering on this agenda. I am willing to pay the price, whatever it is, to make sure that we transform this country and house as many Kenyans as possible,” said Ruto.
Kenya’s Rapid Urbanisation
Ruto highlighted the urgent need for sustainable urban planning, citing Kenya’s rapid urbanisation rate of 4.3% per annum.
He projected that by 2050, nearly 50% of Kenya’s population would be living in towns and cities. This urban shift, the President noted, calls for bold, strategic measures to provide decent housing, eliminate slums, and promote inclusive development.
Affordable Housing Programme: A Game Changer
The President underscored that the Affordable Housing Programme is central to achieving these goals. With over 700,000 units in the pipeline, the programme aims to provide dignified, planned housing to millions of Kenyans while simultaneously eradicating informal settlements.
“As a result, we are implementing bold and strategic measures to shape this urban future, ensuring that every Kenyan has access to planned, dignified and decent housing,” he said.
Ruto also emphasized the wider economic benefits of the housing programme.
During his May 2025 visit to Mukuru, Nairobi, the President handed over 1,080 completed homes to beneficiaries from Mukuru Kwa Njenga, Kwa Reuben, and Marigu-ini.
The New Mukuru Housing Project is expected to deliver 13,248 housing units upon completion.
According to Ruto, the project has already pumped Sh11 billion into construction and neighborhood development. Furthermore, each shilling invested has generated an additional Sh2.50 through supporting businesses, injecting nearly Sh28 billion into the economy through this single initiative.
Public-Private Partnerships Driving Change
The President praised the role of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in delivering the Affordable Housing Programme.
Currently, 154 contractors are working alongside the government, helping to build homes and supporting infrastructure. This collaborative model, Ruto said, demonstrates that PPPs can deliver both efficiency and significant impact.
“We are proud of the Affordable Housing Programme’s momentum, particularly through our collaboration with the private sector,” he said.
Overcoming Criticism
Despite the programme’s achievements, Ruto’s housing agenda has faced criticism from sections of the political opposition and some Kenyans who question its financing model and implementation speed.
However, the President has stood firm, defending the initiative as vital for tackling urban poverty, improving living standards, and driving inclusive economic growth.
“This programme is not just about houses. It is about transforming lives, creating jobs, and building a modern Kenya,” he said at the forum.
A Vision for 2050 and Beyond
Ruto’s government is focused on laying a foundation for Kenya’s urban future. With nearly half of the population projected to live in urban areas by 2050, the President says that investments in housing, infrastructure, and urban services today are critical for ensuring sustainable development and social stability in the years ahead.
Summary
As Kenya continues on its urbanisation path, the Affordable Housing Programme represents more than just construction—it is a symbol of Ruto’s vision for a transformed, inclusive nation. The President has made it clear: he is determined to see the programme succeed, whatever the cost, to ensure that every Kenyan has access to decent, affordable housing.