President William Ruto has responded to COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli after he requested him to relook at the Affordable Housing Program regulations and remove the requirement for the payment of deposits.
Speaking during the Labour Day Celebrations on Thursday May 1, Atwoli noted that most Kenyans are struggling with the economy and suggested that workers be allowed to use their payslips as prove to be allocated the affordable housing units.
“Your excellency we support your affordable housing programme and we appeal since we are represented on that board that workers should use their payslips to acquire those houses. Workers have no money for deposit, we can use our payslips to get into those houses, I appeal to you to go towards that route your excellency,” said Atwoli.
In a response, President Ruto said he is open to negotiations to allow workers use payslips to acquire the affordable housing units.
The Head of State encouraged Kenyans with payslips who are interested in affordable housing to come forward and negotiate with the state.
Read More
“One of you asked whether you can use a payslip to access affordable housing—this is a good point, as long as we’re discussing how we’re going to occupy the houses. Whether it’s through a deposit or for someone who doesn’t have a deposit, bring your payslip and we’ll work something out with you so we can figure out how you’ll get a house and live in a decent place,” said Ruto.
Kenyans are currently required to pay a deposit for the affordable houses and later on make monthly contributions towards purchasing the house.
Under the program, a 2-bedroom house costs approximately Ksh 4.32 million, while a 3-bedroom unit goes for Ksh 5.76 million.
How to Acquire an Affordable Housing Unit
To purchase a house under affordable housing, you must first register on the Boma Yangu housing portal and provide personal details. This includes your name, ID number/passport, and KRA pin.
Once you have registered, your details, income, and credit profile will be verified, after which you can start saving for the initial deposit.
Once you have the deposit, you apply for a unit. This starts with selecting the unit you want, then completing the application profile on Boma Yangu and submitting an application for allocation.
The board will then review your application and decide. The outcome is communicated to applicants, with the successful ones receiving offer letters. The successful applicant will then sign the required paperwork and move in at their convenience.
