As the Government’s Affordable Housing and modern markets continue to take shape across the country, local economies have been revitalised in a big way.
Currently the Affordable Housing projects are underway in multiple regions across the country, consequently alleviating the burden of unemployment, particularly among the youth in the central region.
Aimed at addressing the growing housing deficit by providing decent and Affordable Housing, particularly for those at the bottom of the economic pyramid, the programme aims to deliver 500,000 Units.
In Murang’a’s Makenji area, 220 Units are nearly complete, giving hope to the residents.
It is a significant step towards addressing the housing crisis and ensuring that all citizens have access to safe and secure homes, while stimulating local economies by creating jobs and fostering community development.
Alongside the Affordable Housing Units, a modern market at 73 per cent completion is also a key economic stimulator within the Makenji area, whose population continues to grow drastically.
KNA spoke to the residents, who noted that the Affordable Housing and the upcoming market have already changed the face of Makenji and also led to an increase in population.
Local photographer Julius Mwangi said the area has transformed significantly since the projects began, leading to increased economic activities.
“Makenji has changed and grown due to the Affordable Housing and the new market that is coming up. It gives hope to residents,” he said.
Mwangi added that small businesses are already experiencing benefits.
“As a photographer, I have also seen a boom in jobs and more opportunities. Once traders move into the new market, they will have a better environment to operate in, unlike today, whereby they operate by the roadside,” he added.
Long-time trader Margrate Mathu, who has operated in the area for over 20 years, said the market is a major relief for businesses that have suffered during harsh weather.
“When it rains, we have difficulties carrying out business because even customers cannot access us. We go through losses,” she said, noting that the new market, combined with access to capital, will improve livelihoods.
“With a new market and enough capital, we will transform our lives. Makenji has really grown and business is good. Even during construction, we get good business,” she added.
Murang’a County Woman Representative Betty Maina, speaking at Muruka, Kandara, during an economic empowerment forum, urged residents to make use of government programmes that offer economic empowerment and job opportunities.
“This project is not just about buildings; it is about transforming families and I urge you to take advantage of every available opportunity so that no one is left behind,” she said.
She also encouraged residents to embrace the housing programme and upcoming market, noting that the government intends to support traders and more small-scale ones.
“We want the people of Makenji to benefit from development. When projects like this come, they create jobs, improve trade and build a better future. Let everyone take part and take advantage of the opportunities available,” she said, as she also cautioned residents against negative habits and social ills that derail development.
She warned that the area had recorded rising cases of suicides, often linked to depression from the social ills that leave broken families, poverty and shattered dreams in their wake.
“Take advantage of these projects, earn a living and build a better future instead of wasting away in alcohol dens and other idle places,” she advised.
By Florence Kinyua
