Youths in Kericho have expressed their optimism in the National Affordable Housing Programme, hailing it as a life-changing initiative that is not only opening doors to employment but also empowering them with practical skills, renewed hope, and a sense of economic independence.
While speaking to KNA at Talai Majengo Affordable Housing Project construction site in Kericho, Alex Omondi, one of the beneficiaries, said the initiative has been life-changing for him and many others.
Omondi revealed that he had joined the programme as a casual labourer but has since acquired valuable skills in carpentry, noting that the project has enabled him to provide for his family, educate his children, build a house back home and that beyond the financial benefits, the knowledge and experience gained remains a lifelong asset.
“I hope to enroll for one of the housing units once the project is complete. I appeal to the government to sustain and expand this programme because it not only empowers young people economically but also strengthens our contribution to nation-building under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda,” Omondi said
Faith Cherop, another beneficiary of the Talai Majengo Housing Project, said the programme has opened doors for her to acquire steel fixing skills despite having no prior training.
Cherop explained that through the initiative, she has been awarded a certificate that now gives her the confidence to seek similar opportunities even beyond the project.
She expressed gratitude to the government for rolling out the programme, noting that without it, many young people would still be wandering the streets in search of jobs.
“This project has given us a place to report to every morning, earn a living, and uphold our dignity through meaningful work,” Cherop stressed
She further observed that the opportunity has transformed her household, enabling her to take her children to school and improve their lives, while at the same time positioning herself for a more secure future in the construction industry.
The Talai Affordable Housing Project is part of Kenya’s national Affordable Housing Programme under the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, an initiative anchored in the social pillar that aims to reduce the housing deficit while enhancing access to decent and affordable homes within a sustainable environment.
By Hillary Kemei
