National Assembly · Afternoon Sitting

Hon. Kimani Ichung’wah urged Parliament to fast‑track the housing bill, arguing that large‑scale social and institutional housing will create millions of jobs, address slum conditions and fulfil the constitutional right to adequate housing. He highlighted the need for a housing levy and fund to finance the projects and praised cross‑party support while critiquing past delays and vested interests. The speech linked the housing agenda to broader economic recovery and urbanisation goals. Hon. Johana Kipyegon presented findings from nationwide public consultations on the Affordable Housing Bill, emphasizing the urgent demand for affordable homes across urban and rural areas. The debate focused on how levies should be collected and managed, the establishment of a governing board, and mechanisms to ensure equitable access, including deposit flexibility and targeted housing categories such as institutional, student, social, and county allocations. The debate centered on the Affordable Housing Bill 2023, with Hon. Paul Nzengu questioning the bill’s financial safeguards, eligibility criteria, and the qualifications of its implementing officials, while Hon. Ronald Karauri defended the legislation, citing extensive public participation and recent amendments that address affordability and allocation concerns. The discussion highlighted tensions between the need for rapid housing delivery and worries about fiscal transparency and administrative efficiency.