President William Ruto has taken Kenya’s affordable housing agenda to the global stage, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to delivering decent housing for all.
Speaking after a meeting with UN-Habitat Executive Director Anacláudia Rossbach on the sidelines of the World Urban Forum in Baku, Ruto said Kenya would continue working with international partners to advance sustainable urban development.
The President, who also serves as the Global Champion for Adequate Housing, said the talks focused on strengthening collaboration to build resilient and people-centred cities.
“We reaffirmed our shared commitment to advancing global action on sustainable urban development and affordable housing,” Ruto said.
He added that Kenya would deepen its partnership with UN-Habitat as it pushes forward with reforms in the housing sector.
Ruto’s remarks come as his government continues to roll out the Affordable Housing Programme, one of the flagship projects under his administration.
The programme aims to deliver thousands of housing units across the country while creating jobs and improving living standards, particularly for low- and middle-income earners.
“Kenya will continue to advance the Affordable Housing Programme to ensure every citizen, regardless of background, has access to decent and dignified shelter,” the President said.
The President’s global push comes at a time when housing remains one of the most debated issues locally, especially following the introduction of the housing levy.
By taking the conversation to international forums, Ruto appears to be positioning Kenya as a key player in shaping global urban development policies, while also seeking support and partnerships to deliver on his domestic agenda.
The meeting in Baku signals Kenya’s intention to align its housing strategy with global standards, even as pressure mounts at home to ensure the programme delivers tangible results for ordinary citizens.
