NAIROBI, Kenya – President William Ruto has today 20th May 2025 handed over 1,080 newly completed social housing units in Mukuru, hailing the project as a landmark moment in the government’s affordable housing agenda and a model for inclusive urban transformation.
Describing the event as “a turning point for the people of Mukuru and for Kenya,” Ruto emphasized that the homes represent more than shelter — they symbolize dignity, security, and upward mobility for residents who have long lived in Nairobi’s informal settlements.
“These keys do not just open doors,” Ruto said. “They unlock opportunity, safety, pride, and intergenerational upliftment.”
The new development, situated at the former Meteorological site in Mukuru Kwa Njenga, is part of a larger housing scheme expected to deliver 13,248 units upon completion.
It is Kenya’s largest single-site housing intervention to date, with KSh11 billion already invested directly into construction, according to the president.
Beyond the homes themselves, the Mukuru project includes 3.2km of roads, nearly 4km of sewer lines, a health centre, a fire station, daycare facilities, a shopping strip, and even high-capacity water infrastructure — including a five-million-litre underground tank.
The site also features amenities aimed at catalysing a full social and economic ecosystem.
“Not a Vertical Slum”
Addressing criticism that high-density housing risks becoming “vertical slums,” Ruto countered that poor quality, not population size, defines a slum.
“This is not a vertical slum,” he said. “It’s proof that low income does not mean low quality. Mukuru offers services, safety, and dignity.”
The president also framed the project as part of a broader economic recovery strategy, stating that housing construction has become a critical engine for jobs, manufacturing, and local business.
From Jua Kali artisans to Mama Mbogas feeding fundis on-site, Ruto said the housing programme is driving a “vibrant ecosystem” of economic inclusion.
Financial Inclusion, Local Jobs
The Mukuru housing development is also a case study in financial innovation.
Through products like rent-to-own schemes, SACCOs and banks are increasingly viewing low-income earners as viable clients. “The Hustler is now bankable,” Ruto said.
According to State House, every shilling invested in the project generates KSh2.50 in secondary economic activity.
Nearly KSh28 billion has reportedly been injected into the economy so far through this initiative alone.
With 154 contractors and multiple county governments working in tandem, Ruto said the Mukuru site exemplifies the potential of public-private partnerships in infrastructure development.
The Bigger Picture
Nationwide, the government is constructing 26 new markets and upgrading over 200 existing ones to accompany the housing programme.
These hubs — equipped with cold storage, internet centres, and clean sanitation — aim to support small traders, farmers, and youth-run businesses.
Ruto also encouraged Kenyans from all walks of life — from boda boda riders to software developers — to register for homeownership through the Boma Yangu platform.
“One ID, one home. Whether you earn KSh20,000 or KSh150,000, there is a pathway for you,” he said, urging citizens to sign up via *832# or www.bomayangu.go.ke.
