The government is on track to finish construction of the first phase of the Homa Bay Affordable Housing project by March 2024. The initiative, spanning 11 acres in Homa Bay, targets the creation of 400 housing units.
Sivance Olele, Director of the Government Delivery Unit in Nyanza and Western Regions, disclosed that the project has made significant progress and is nearing completion. “The project is approximately 76.0% complete. Despite the favorable progress, ongoing rains may pose delays. Originally scheduled for completion in February, we are now looking at March due to the weather conditions,” Olele explained.
The initial phase comprises 110 units, featuring 30 studios, 40 one-bedroom, and 40 two-bedroom residences. The units are priced at KES 1.6 million, KES 2.5 million, and KES 3.5 million, respectively. The project aims to provide affordable housing options for low and middle-income households.
To achieve cost savings, the program will incorporate energy-efficient lighting for both internal and external areas, lighting control with daylight and occupancy sensors, as well as low-flow showerheads and faucets for bathrooms and kitchen sinks. The project envisions utilizing clean solar power to achieve a 30.0% energy saving, 35.0% water saving, and 56.0% less embodied energy in materials, resulting in a CO2 saving of 0.3 tonnes annually.
Olele encouraged residents of Homa Bay to embrace the government’s initiative, stating, “The government is committed to the well-being of the people of Nyanza. I urge you to cooperate with the government to reap the benefits of these projects.”
Upon completion, the implementation of this project will signify a significant achievement for the government in realizing its affordable housing objectives, specifically in providing low-cost housing for low and middle-income earners. The government program has played a pivotal role in generating employment opportunities for numerous youths across the country, both directly and indirectly.