Phase 2 of the ongoing national Affordable Housing Programme in Machakos Town Constituency is gaining momentum, with construction now underway on all four residential blocks despite early setbacks caused by heavy rains.
The Sh1.6 billion project, being implemented by the State Department for Housing and Urban Development, will deliver 570 units comprising bedsitters, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments.
According to site Engineer Brian Munuhe, the development is scheduled for completion on July 15, 2027, as physical progress stands at 10.5% against a 33% elapsed timeline since groundbreaking on January 15, 2026.
Munuhe attributed the lag to exceptional rainy weather in the first quarter of construction, which made it difficult for them to get quality murram for the foundation, and countered by adding more shifts for workers.
“The heavy seasonal rains flooded our approved borrow pits, making it difficult to source the quality marram required for foundation works. We have now introduced additional shifts and deployed more equipment, and we remain confident of delivering within the scheduled date,” said Eng. Munuhe.
He disclosed that beyond housing, the master-planned neighbourhood will include an early childhood education center with a kindergarten and nursery, a modern clubhouse, and designated market spaces to support small businesses.
Officials said the project is designed to combine social housing, affordable housing, and commercial facilities to create a self-sustaining urban community.
The County Development Technical Committee, who were on a site visit led by Machakos County Commissioner Jackson Ole Chuta, raised concerns over the time elapsed in the progress of the phase 2 project and called on engineers and the contractor to fast-track completion.
Speaking during the site inspection, the County Commissioner urged the contractors to ensure the affordable housing units are completed within the stipulated timelines and alert officials In case of any challenges experienced.
Ole Chuta further lauded the contractor for employing workers from the local community, noting that this aligns with the government’s goal of creating local employment opportunities.
Construction has intensified in recent weeks as the contractor Amaya-Qani Company LTD works to recover lost time. The State Department says it is closely monitoring the recovery plan to ensure the 18-month programme delivers quality and affordable phase 2 homes for Machakos residents.
By Alex Mulili
