The government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Jua Kali artisans in acquiring homes under the Affordable Housing Program (AHP), a key initiative aimed at expanding homeownership among Kenyans.
Speaking at a consultative session in Nairobi, Affordable Housing Board (AHB) Chairman Jeremiah Simu announced plans to roll out nationwide sensitization campaigns to encourage more Jua Kali workers to apply for housing through their associations.”We are committed to supporting the sector in acquiring homes under the Affordable Housing Program, which is why we have developed a framework for working with Jua Kali sector members. Our goal is to reach out to the public, including the informal sector, in response to their call for homeownership opportunities,” Simu stated.
The initiative is part of the government’s broader agenda to ensure dignified housing across the country. The AHB aims to make the program accessible to individuals of all income levels by streamlining the application process through Jua Kali associations.
Kenya National Federation of Jua Kali Associations CEO Richard Muteti welcomed the initiative, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in educating members on the available housing opportunities.”I am here to honor the chairperson’s call after he reached out to actualize the dream of homeownership for the informal sector, which Jua Kali is part of. Beyond being stakeholders contributing to the Affordable Housing Program, we are also actively involved in developing and constructing the houses through our various skilled manpower. That is why we are here to ensure significant support for this initiative. I will inform my members so they can become homeowners,” Muteti said.
He further noted that the sector’s contribution to the construction of affordable houses underscores its critical role in the success of the program.The government has assured that every eligible individual, regardless of income level, can access the program, with over 24 planned housing projects across the country nearing completion.
The initiative is expected to provide more Jua Kali workers with a pathway to homeownership while strengthening their role in national development
