Diverse Voices Advocate For Low Cost Affordable Housing For The Less Fortunate
Vice chairperson of Housing, Public Works and Urban Planning committee, Rindikiri Mugambi (2nd left) going through affordable housing project details as other leaders, including Laikipia County Women Representative Jane Kagiri looks on.
By PSCU
In a significant public participation event held in Mavoko, Machakos County, community members voiced their opinions on the Affordable Housing Bill, contributing valuable insights that could shape the outcome of the Bill before tabling of the committees report in parliament.
One of the attendees representing university students said there is need for dedicated hostels to university students.
Acknowledging the importance of providing suitable accommodations for students, she urged the committee to incorporate provisions for such facilities in the Bill.
A strong emphasis was placed on affordability, with residents advocating for a reduction in the cost of housing units to make them more affordable to low-income earners.
This call for economic inclusivity seeks to ensure that a broader spectrum of the community can afford decent housing.
People living with disabilities (PWDs) were not left out of the discussion. A representative from the group stressed the importance of involving PWDs in affordable housing projects by incorporating them in the supply chain of building materials and providing technical support.
Furthermore, there was a collective call for housing designs that are inclusive and considerate of PWDs, allowing them easy access to the houses.
Local contractors also urged the government to consider them in the awarding of contracts. The noted that involving local contractors would not only boost the economy, but would also ensure that the benefits of such projects extend to the surrounding communities.
Participants also called for an upgrade in social infrastructure surrounding these housing projects. This includes improvement of infrastructure in schools, hospitals, roads, and street lighting amongst other facilities.
They observed that this holistic approach to development aims at creating thriving communities supported by adequate amenities.
Mr. Malei Nthiwa, representing the Mavoko Jua Cali Association also shared his perspectives with the Housing Committee. He urged the lawmakers to ring-fence the Affordable Housing Fund to ensure its dedicated use for achieving the community’s housing aspirations.
The further told the lawmakers that the association’s recommendations, if incorporated, could contribute significantly to the success of the housing initiatives. Their sentiments were noted by the Vice chairperson of Housing, Public Works and Urban Planning Committee, Rindikiri Mugambi, who chaired the session.
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