Concerns about Ruto’s housing projects have arisen. The government signed contracts worth Sh49.5 billion for affordable housing projects on land that does not have official ownership documents, causing worries about who really owns the property.
The absence of these important documents adds to the confusion and distrust that many people feel about the Affordable Housing Programme (AHP).
President William Ruto’s plan for affordable housing is under new scrutiny after it was revealed that contracts worth Sh49.5 billion were signed for construction on land without title deeds.
This shocking news from recent audits has raised doubts about whether buyers can feel secure in their property ownership.
According to Auditor General Nancy Gathungu’s latest report, the State Department for Housing has entered into high-value contracts for building affordable homes across the country.
However, without ownership documents for the land, questions arise about the program’s trustworthiness. Experts warn that without original title deeds, it may be impossible to give buyers legal ownership of their homes, leaving many Kenyans who invest in these projects at risk.
The missing titles are another issue for the AHP, which aims to build 200,000 housing units each year.
Interest from the public has been low, with only 1 in 559 adults saving through the Boma Yangu platform, showing that many people are sceptical.
Economists and housing advocates have criticized the program, saying it costs taxpayers a lot while not really solving the main issues of affordability.
Additionally, the government has not explained how buyers will secure ownership without legal documents, especially considering past land ownership scandals.
For example, in Nairobi, a case in 2019 involved land belonging to the county government being transferred to a private developer, who then used the title to secure a large loan. This situation raises fears that similar problems could happen with the AHP.
As of March 3, 2025, Housing Principal Secretary Charles Hinga has not replied to questions about the missing titles or how land approvals were handled for these contracts, leaving the public in the dark.
The State Department is not being transparent, which is a contrast to Ruto’s promises of openness and job creation through the AHP.
This was a major part of his 2022 campaign, but now faces doubt as projects face delays and legal challenges.
With Sh49.5 billion already spent, the future of this program, meant to improve housing in Kenya, is at a critical point.
