Housing levy lawfully spent on social infrastructure, PS Hinga tells COTU

The Principal Secretary for Housing and Urban Development, Charles Hinga, has strongly refuted claims made by COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli that the Affordable Housing Levy is being diverted to unintended uses.

In a statement, Hinga clarified that the Affordable Housing Act, 2024, explicitly provides for the design, development, and maintenance of affordable housing alongside related social and physical infrastructure—including schools, health centres, roads, and open spaces.

“The inclusion of associated social and physical infrastructure is neither a loophole nor a misuse of the Housing Levy,” Hinga stated, emphasizing that “it is not just about housing units.”

“This integrated approach is not incidental; it is central to the Act’s vision of creating dignified, livable communities,” he explained.

He reiterated that this integrated approach reflects global best practices, aligns with Kenya’s urban development policies, and supports the nation’s international obligations under SDG 11 and the New Urban Agenda.

In response to Atwoli’s concerns, Hinga reaffirmed that the Affordable Housing Programme is transparent and well-governed.

At the same time, the PS refuted Atwoli’s claims that COTU was not involved in drafting the affordable housing regulations. He stated that their representation has been part of the process from the beginning, reminding the public that COTU holds a seat on the Affordable Housing Board, representing workers in the programme’s oversight and implementation.

“Indeed, COTU-K voluntarily forwarded Mr. Earnest Nadome’s name to be its representative in formulation of the enabling regulations, a fact that has escaped the top leadership of the workers’ umbrella body,” he noted.

Hinga reiterated the government’s target to deliver 250,000 affordable housing units annually, embedded within well-planned, economically vibrant communities that reduce transport costs and support social cohesion.

“We are committed to delivering homes—not just houses—along with the essential infrastructure that makes life better for all Kenyans, especially workers and their families,” Hinga said.

He extended an invitation to all stakeholders, including COTU, to engage constructively and help strengthen the programme’s delivery.

“Our mission is clear: to deliver not just houses, but sustainable communities where all Kenyans can live with dignity,” the PS said.