Residents of Vihiga Constituency have expressed their approval as the Government prepares to embark on the Vihiga Affordable Housing Program, a transformative initiative set to generate approximately 3,000 employment opportunities.
This comes as President William Ruto is currently engaged in a productive tour of the Western region, where he is scheduled to inaugurate the project on Tuesday morning.
Covering a two-acre expanse of land under the ownership of the National Government, the groundbreaking ceremony will mark the beginning of an endeavour aimed at addressing the challenge of affordable housing.
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This land, previously home to civil servant pool housing units, possesses ample space for future expansion, offering the prospect of sustainable development.
Collaborating in this significant venture, the State Department for Housing and Urban Development has formed a partnership with Padaa Enterprises.
With an estimated budget of Sh536 million, Padaa Enterprises will oversee the development of the Milimani Estate Affordable Housing Project.
This project will encompass a collection of nine apartment blocks, each containing an assortment of housing units.
The composition includes 60 studio units, 20 one-bedroom units, 100 two-bedroom units, and 40 three-bedroom units, collectively addressing a variety of housing needs.
Underpinning the project's comprehensive nature, Padaa Enterprises has been entrusted with enhancing the existing infrastructure.
Improvements to the sewerage system and water facilities are in the pipeline to ensure that future tenants experience optimal living conditions.
Notably, the Government is reserving Sh26 million for the procurement of doors and windows from local artisans associated with Jua Kali, a testament to the commitment to involving and uplifting local talent.
In an encouraging sign of grassroots involvement, the "Make it use it" welders and fabricators association, an emerging group comprising around 40 members, has shown enthusiasm in formalizing their participation.
Additionally, efforts are ongoing to assemble a larger contingent of participants, with woodworking and welding groups from the neighbouring Sabatia constituency expressing eagerness to contribute when required.
The forthcoming development is set to incorporate vital communal spaces, including a Social Hall, Play Areas, a Commercial Area, a Tree Nursery, and Greenery.
These elements are projected to foster a sense of community and well-being within the housing complex.
The expected completion date for this transformative project is April 2025.
Remarkably, the Vihiga Affordable Housing Program marks the fourth such initiative initiated by the Government at the constituency level.
Preceding examples include the Gichugu Constituency Affordable Housing Program and the Bahati Affordable Housing Program.
So far, 17 contracts have already been awarded under Lot 1 for development, and a further 35 contracts have been advertised under Lot 2 for the constituency's affordable housing initiative.