Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has donated five acres of land in Kisumu for the government’s affordable housing project.
Addressing crowds in Kisumu on Thursday, Raila emphasised that the affordable housing project aligns with long-standing goals to uplift the lives of ordinary Kenyans.
“Building affordable housing for citizens is one of the government’s plans to support the people. We began this program a long time ago because we are facing five major challenges: the right to shelter, the right to food, the right to housing, good health, and education,” Raila said.
To address all the above five challenges, the government ventured into affordable housing.
“Ndio sababu sisi hapa nimepeana hekari tano kwa serikali ijenge manyumba kwa wananchi wetu (that is why I donated the five acres to the government to construct houses for our citizens)”.
He explained that the land donation is part of a broader initiative to develop the region, noting that plans are also underway to build a school and hospital on the site.
“We want to improve the lives of our people. We cannot say we are waiting for another government. This current government must work for the people,” Raila said.
In a show of political unity and mutual respect, President William Ruto thanked Raila for the donation.
President Ruto said the government will inject Sh3.2 billion into the project, which is expected to be completed within 18 months.
“This is Raila’s land, but with humility, I must thank him,” Ruto said, adding that Raila has remembered the people of Kisumu by offering the land for a good cause.
Ruto reaffirmed his commitment to equitable development across the country, regardless of political affiliations.
“Development in Kenya must reach every corner of the country,” he said.
“You all know this is Raila Odinga’s stronghold, but with respect and humility, I want to say that Raila has given us five acres of land to build affordable housing, so that the people here can get decent homes at a fair price.”
The President added that the 750 units will primarily benefit low-income earners, including vegetable vendors and boda boda operators.
“Prepare yourselves to move in when these homes are ready,” Ruto urged the residents.
President Ruto further revealed plans to construct a total of 15,000 affordable housing units in Kisumu County, with 2,400 already under construction.
“We want to stop people from endlessly paying rent. Instead, we want them to pay mortgages so they can become homeowners rather than tenants,” he said.