Atwoli: COTU, government reach deal on housing levy use

COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli says the union has reached a major agreement with the government on how the Affordable Housing Levy will be utilized — especially regarding social infrastructure.

This comes after COTU raised concerns over the use of worker funds for projects such as market construction arguing it was without prior consultation.

Following a meeting with President William Ruto at Statehouse, the COTU boss said the government has agreed to halt expansion of the markets development programme and focus funds on housing delivery. Contributing workers will now be prioritized in housing allocations, with deposit requirements lowered from 10% to 5%.

He said a new committee will also be established to oversee the reallocation of funds and ensure market-related revenues are redirected into housing.

COTU welcomed the move, saying it marks a win for transparency and protects worker interests.

“COTU appreciates the Government’s continued commitment to protect the interests of Kenyan workers. We particularly commend President William Ruto for his willingness to engage, listen, and act on the concerns raised, thereby reinforcing the central role of workers in national development,” stated Atwoli