The National Assembly Committee on Housing, Urban Planning and Public Works has urged the Affordable Housing Board to ensure it adheres to the Board’s mandate and proper management of taxpayers money under the Fund.
In a meeting with the Board, chaired by the Committee chairperson, Emurua Dikiir MP Johana Ng’eno, the legislators expressed concerns over delays in developing the five- year and Annual Investment Affordable Housing Programme.
"How long do you want to be given as the Board to do this work?" posed Johana Ng'eno.In response, board Member Cosmas Mutava informed the Committee Members that the delay had been occasioned by the Institution’s recent categorization.
The Committee also emphasized the need for public awareness on the acquisition of affordable housing units with Caleb Mule (Machakos Town) questioning the assurance provided to Kenyans who are ready to pay the deposits for the units.
Innocent Obiri (Bobasi) sought clarity on the projects started and completed by the Board.
Ng’eno underscored the objective of the Fund, stating that the Committee would scrutinize the Affordable Housing Regulations to ensure that the process isn’t discriminatory and the requirement for a 10% mandatory deposit isn’t in the regulation.
During the meeting, Jane Kagiri raised a concern about lack of water at Githurai market housing projecf despite previous reports indicating 100% completion.
On his part, the Kiminini legislator, Kakai Bissau warned the Board against overburdening contractors with multiple projects, stating that it would be prudent to ensure that no contractor takes more than 3 projects.
While defending the Board, the acting CEO, Ms. Sheila Waweru assured the Committee of their commitment to fair distribution of housing projects across the country and pointed out to the legislators, their public awareness effors.
Acknowledging the Committee’s concerns, the Board’s chairperson Mr. Jeremiah Simu disclosed the Board is yet to start new projects and pledged to address the concerns raised by the Honourable Members of the Committee.
The Committee however warned the Board against diversion of the tax payers monies meant for affordable housing units to unnecessary projects.
