Principal Secretary for Housing and Urban Development Charles Hinga has called on Parliament to approve an additional Ksh150 billion to bridge a funding shortfall in the Affordable Housing Programme, warning that current budget allocations may slow down implementation across the country.
Appearing before the National Assembly Housing Committee, Hinga said the programme requires approximately Ksh228 billion to remain on track and meet its nationwide delivery targets.
He cautioned that the existing financial provisions, including the Ksh50.6 billion allocated in the 2026/2027 financial year, are insufficient to sustain the pace of ongoing and planned housing projects.
According to the PS, the funding gap poses a significant risk to the government’s goal of expanding access to decent and affordable housing, especially in rapidly growing urban areas where demand continues to rise.
Hinga told MPs that without additional financing or the adoption of alternative funding models, the programme could face delays, affecting delivery timelines and increasing overall project costs.
He emphasized that the Affordable Housing Programme remains a key pillar of the government’s development agenda, aimed at addressing the national housing deficit and improving living conditions for low and middle-income earners.
The PS further explained that the programme is structured to rely on a mix of government funding, private sector participation, and innovative financing mechanisms to ensure long-term sustainability.
He noted that the government is also exploring new partnerships and funding structures to reduce pressure on the national budget while maintaining steady progress in housing delivery.
Members of the Housing Committee sought clarification on how the additional funding would be utilized and whether existing projects would be affected by the current shortfall.
Lawmakers also raised concerns over the pace of implementation and the need for transparency in the allocation and use of funds within the programme.
Hinga assured the committee that all ongoing projects remain on course, adding that the government is committed to ensuring efficiency, accountability, and value for money in the execution of housing developments.
He reiterated that the Affordable Housing Programme is not only about construction but also about creating jobs, stimulating the construction industry, and improving urban planning across the country.
The committee is expected to deliberate further on the funding request before making recommendations to the National Assembly for consideration.
As the debate continues, the housing programme remains one of the government’s flagship initiatives, closely watched due to its scale, cost, and expected impact on Kenya’s urban population.
