Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) involved in Kenya’s Affordable Housing Programme are set to receive a significant boost.

This is after the government allocated Ksh4.4 billion to pay them for their services.

President William Ruto announced during Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kwale County.

Signalling his administration’s strong commitment.

To ensure local enterprises play a vital role in the national housing agenda.

President Ruto emphasized that engaging MSMEs and the Jua Kali sector is a key strategy to ensure the success of the Affordable Housing Programme.

By tapping into the talents and services of local businesses, the government aims to create a ripple effect that benefits the entire economy.

“We have allocated Ksh4.4 billion specifically for payments to MSMEs supplying goods and services under the program.

This collaboration with the Jua Kali sector has shown the program’s immense potential to transform local manufacturing,” the president said.

Highlighting a success story, Ruto mentioned the Soweto Highrise Fabricators and Woodworkers Association in Kibera.

Which has been awarded a Ksh720 million contract to supply construction materials for the housing project.

The partnership, he noted, has positioned the association as a certified supplier under the Affordable Housing Programme.

Opening doors for future growth and development.

In Kwale County alone, over 200 artisans are contributing their skills by fabricating essential components such as doors, windows, and cabinet fittings.

Ruto praised the initiative, saying it strengthens local businesses and empowers worker cooperatives, helping to improve livelihoods across the country.

Jobs overflow

The president also shared the impressive impact of the Affordable Housing Programme.

So far, revealing that it has created over 160,000 jobs in the housing value chain.

While the industry is currently male-dominated, efforts are underway to increase female participation to 30%, up from the present 20%.

Looking ahead, Ruto announced that 1,080 new studio units at the Mukuru Meteorological Site in Nairobi will be handed over this December.

With mortgages priced at just Ksh3,200 per month, Ruto called it a revolutionary step toward making home ownership an accessible and feasible option for all Kenyans.