At least 220 affordable housing units under construction in the Makenji area of Murang’a County are set for completion by March next year, authorities have confirmed.
The contractor working on the project stated that more than 80 per cent of the work is complete, with finishing works progressing steadily.
During an inspection tour on Thursday, Central Regional Commissioner (RC) Joshua Nkanatha affirmed that the Makenji affordable housing project was on track despite earlier challenges related to land encroachment.
“The challenges surrounding land encroachment did not delay the project. Work is ongoing, and we are confident the houses will be completed by March next year and be ready for handover,” Nkanatha said.
Accompanied by members of the county and regional security team, Nkanatha highlighted the positive impact of the project on local residents, noting that it is strategically located for those from Murang’a South, especially those working in Thika and Nairobi.
The RC also visited the Makuyu affordable housing project, which is about 30 per cent complete.
He said Murang’a County is set to benefit from more than 10,000 affordable housing units by 2030 as part of the government’s efforts to provide decent shelter and create employment opportunities for youth.
Nkanatha urged residents to take advantage of the programme by registering early, emphasising that the units are intended to benefit the local communities.
On other government initiatives, the RC commended progress on the Ng’araria and Makenji modern markets, encouraging contractors to complete the projects on time.
Each market will accommodate at least 210 traders and feature modern facilities, including cold storage rooms, dry storage areas, a social hall, and an ICT hub.
The Makenji housing project contractor, Bernard Muroki, said the remaining works include painting, installing the sewerage system, and interior fittings, which are expected to take less than two months.
He encouraged locals to book units early through the Boma Yangu platform, noting that the deposit requirement has been reduced from 10 percent to 5 percent to make the houses more accessible.
“We are urging locals to register for the houses early through the Boma Yangu platform. The deposit has been reduced to five percent to ease access,” Muroki said.
Clerk of Works Michael Mwololo explained that the project comprises a mix of housing units, including 60 three-bedroom units, 100 two-bedroom units, and 60 bedsitter studios.
He added that the project was initially scheduled for completion in November 2024 but faced several challenges that necessitated an extension.
“Our initial completion date was November 2024, but due to the challenges encountered, we are now targeting to complete the project by March next year,” Mwololo said.
Upon completion, the affordable housing and modern market projects are expected to significantly improve living and business environments for residents.
The developments will provide decent and affordable housing, organised trading spaces, enhanced service delivery, and stimulated local economic activities across Murang’a County.
By Bernard Munyao
