By Harun Mugambi
The National Housing Corporation (NHC) recently celebrated its 70th anniversary at the Bomas of Kenya, marking a significant milestone in its mission to provide innovative housing solutions across the country.
The event served as a platform to highlight the NHC’s new strategic plan and brand elements, emphasizing its legacy of transforming lives through affordable housing initiatives.
Mr Mugambi Rindikiri, Vice Chair of the Departmental Committee on Housing, Urban Development, and Public Works at the National Assembly, expressed his admiration for the government’s unwavering commitment to the housing agenda.
In his remarks, Rindikiri who is also the Buuri Member of Parliament underscored the importance of the NHC’s projects in shaping Kenya’s future.”Indeed, this marks the beginning of a new era and a vision of where we aspire Kenya to be tomorrow,” Rindikiri stated.
He acknowledged the substantial effort by the government, led by President William Ruto, in championing the implementation of the housing agenda.
“Our government, under the leadership of the president, has undertaken a significant task to drive the housing agenda forward in our nation. It’s a collective sacrifice, and I am heartened to see so many of you here today. This gives me both testimony and comfort that we are on the right path.”
Rindikiri emphasized that access to decent and affordable shelter is a constitutional right for every Kenyan citizen. He credited the president’s vision and determination for executing this critical mandate:
“It is our constitutional duty to ensure that all Kenyans have access to decent and affordable housing. President Ruto’s wisdom and resolute action have propelled us forward in fulfilling this fundamental right.
The true impact of what this government is doing may not be fully realized until 20 years from now. His Excellency the President is laying an enormous foundation for our country’s development. We must transform our nation.
While some may perceive it as costly or unreasonable, this work is an investment that will endure. It will undoubtedly become one of the most significant programs our government has ever undertaken,” the lawmaker noted
Speaking at the event, Hon. Wahome congratulated the Corporation for its role in providing housing for Kenyans for the last 70 years.
“For 70 years, the National Housing Corporation has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of housing in Kenya. From providing housing solutions to fostering sustainable urban development, the Corporation has been a beacon of hope for countless Kenyans aspiring to own decent homes,” she said.
She added: “Through this rebranding initiative, the Corporation seeks to modernize its
operations, enhance its service delivery, and build stronger partnerships with stakeholders across the public and private sectors.”
The Corporation’s Strategic Plan is anchored on five major pillars: Housing, Financial, Estate
Management, Research & Innovation, and Corporate Sustainability.
Of the one million affordable housing units the Government plans to build by the end of the
financial year 2027/2028, the Corporation plans to build more than 100,000 units.
During the event, Mr. Koskei said the Government is committed to expanding the capacity of the NHC to meet the growing demand for affordable housing.
“To achieve this, we are encouraging public-private partnerships to leverage additional
resources and expertise. We are also reviewing and updating policies to create a more
conducive environment for housing development. Our aim is to ensure that every citizen has access to safe, affordable, and decent housing,” he said.
He further said that the Kenya Kwanza government is committed to ensuring delivery of high quality services to Kenyans
Kenya faces a housing deficit of approximately 2 million units, making the NHC’s efforts even more critical. Through strategic public-private partnerships and financing from entities like the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the NHC continues to play a pivotal role in meeting the nation’s housing needs.
