Tharaka nithi: The national government’s affordable housing programme is creating employment opportunities and stimulating economic growth in Tharaka Nithi County, even as several housing and infrastructure projects advance under the State Department for Housing.
According to Kenya News Agency, Tharaka Nithi County Director of Housing, Nelly Kawira, stated that the county is implementing key national government projects including affordable housing, economic stimulus initiatives, and modern market developments. Kawira highlighted three major affordable housing projects in the county: Chuka Public Works Affordable Housing, Majira Affordable Housing, and Marimanti Affordable Housing, all under the State Department for Housing.
Kawira detailed that the Chuka Affordable Housing Project, which will include 385 housing units across different categories, began in December 2024 and is expected to be completed by July this year after 18 months of construction. However, she noted that the project has reached only 30 percent completion due to initial challenges such as the removal of large trees, which may require an extension of the deadline.
She further reported that the Marimanti project in Tharaka Constituency is at four percent completion, while the preliminary processes for the Majira project have just concluded. Kawira emphasized the socio-economic benefits these projects bring to local communities, particularly women and youth, who have found employment opportunities at the construction sites and through related small-scale trading activities.
Kawira also mentioned that Jua Kali artisans, including masons, carpenters, and welders, have gained employment through these projects, thereby improving household incomes. She revealed that many artisans involved in the projects are registered with the Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA), enhancing professionalism and accountability in the construction sector.
The projects have also provided opportunities for technical and non-technical interns, with the government absorbing 5,000 young men and women nationwide as interns under the affordable housing programme, with 63 slots allocated to Tharaka Nithi County.
Kawira reiterated that the affordable housing programme is part of the government’s strategy to address housing shortages and promote job creation, skills development, and economic empowerment. Once completed, these projects are expected to alleviate housing pressure in Tharaka Nithi County and deliver long-term socio-economic benefits to residents.
Local residents, such as Purity Mutegi and Dominic Mugendi, have expressed appreciation for the opportunities created by the projects, citing improved family welfare and professional development as key benefits. The initiative has provided stable income and enhanced skills for many artisans in the region.