The Ministry of Lands has issued an immediate vacate notice to residents occupying government estates in Nairobi asking them to surrender the houses they occupy.
In a statement dated February 27, Housing Principal Secretary Charles Hinga indicated that the houses were due for renovation adding that the government had made plans to renovate them.
Additionally, Hinga stated that the government intended to use the renovated houses to increase rental stock and avail houses for sale though the Affordable Housing Program (AHP).
Also, he said that the move will create job opportunities for the youth.
“As you are aware, the Government is implementing the Affordable Housing Program (AHP), which is part of the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
“Pursuant to this, several old estates have been identified for redevelopment in order to increase rental stock, avail houses for sale to citizens at affordable rates, and create job opportunities for the youth,’ the statement read in part.
Also Read: Win for Ruto as MPs Pass Affordable Housing Bill
Govt Lists the 6 Estates Residents Should Vacate
The estates listed by the PS include Jogoo Road Phase I, Jogoo Road Phase II, Jamaa, Mbotela, Ahero and Mawenzi Gardens.
“To pave way for their redevelopment, there is need to vacate all tenants residing in these Government estates immediately,” the notice added.
Subsequently, the residents were asked to surrender the houses they occupied before April 30, 2024. The ministry promised to accord them priority to rent or purchase the houses once the renovations are complete.
This, added the notice, ought to happen after the residents have cleared their rent arrears and other bills.
“Consequently, you are required to prepare and surrender the house you occupy to the Director of Estate Management in vacant possession on or before 30th April 2024, after clearing all the outstanding rent arrears, utility bills and service charges.
“Please note that tenants vacated from these estates will be accorded priority to purchase or rent a house once the redevelopment is complete,” explained the notice.
Also Read: Govt Announces Sale of Affordable Houses; How to Buy
MPs Pass Affordable Housing Bill
Earlier on February 21, Members of Parliament (MPs) approved the Affordable Housing Bill following a successful third reading at the National Assembly with a few amendments.
The Affordable Housing Bill which was tabled by Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah had moved to the third reading stage after a successful first and second reading.
Therefore, the bill will be set to be sent to the Senate for consensus as certain components of the proposed amendments touch on the jurisdiction of county governments.
