Residents of Mathare slum are calling on the National Government to prioritize their inclusion in the Affordable Housing Programme, citing dire living conditions worsened by the recent heavy rains in the city.
Many of the residents have been left homeless or living in unsafe structures after their homes were severely damaged by floods, forcing them to sleep in the cold. They now hope the government’s housing initiative will offer a lifeline and restore dignity through decent living conditions.
During a visit to the area, Nairobi River Commission members Josphat Sagero and Amos Chege emphasized the urgency of the matter and the broader vision of the housing project.
They noted that, beyond offering safe homes, the initiative also aims to establish key social amenities like schools, health centers, and recreational spaces to uplift the quality of life in informal settlements.“This project isn’t just about buildings; it’s about restoring dignity, ensuring safety, and creating vibrant communities,” said Commissioner Sagero.
Residents expressed hope that the government would act swiftly, not just to address the destruction caused by the rains, but to implement long-term solutions that guarantee them access to affordable and secure housing.
The Mathare plea adds to growing calls from informal settlements across the country for equitable access to the government’s ambitious affordable housing plan, as climate-related challenges continue to expose the vulnerability of low-income urban dwellers.
