The government is moving to allow Kenyans who choose to opt out of the Affordable Housing Programme to withdraw their contributions, a measure aimed at boosting transparency and public confidence. The announcement followed discussions between the Departmental Committee on Housing and officials from the State Department for Housing on Thursday, March 26, where lawmakers highlighted challenges affecting the scheme’s implementation.
Housing Principal Secretary Charles Hinga told MPs that the government is partnering with a leading telecommunications company to create a platform that enables contributors to reclaim their savings if they exit the programme. “What you are saving towards house ownership is your money. We are putting in place a platform with the telecommunications company to allow Kenyans to withdraw their funds,” he said.
Lawmakers also urged the government to streamline the Boma Yangu platform, pointing out difficulties in registration, accessing information, and understanding the home ownership process. They stressed the importance of clear communication on eligibility, ownership rights, and the security of contributors’ funds. Buuri MP Rindikiri Mugambi asked whether individuals can own homes outside their counties of residence, seeking assurances to build public trust.
Hinga reaffirmed that all Kenyans have the constitutional right to own property anywhere in the country. The Committee also noted low public awareness of the programme, recommending increased use of media and digital content creators to educate the public.
In response, acting CEO of the Affordable Housing Board Joseph Kagicha outlined plans to boost visibility, starting with nationwide activities in Nairobi. “We haven’t done sufficiently, but there’s a lot of work behind the scenes to bring more beneficiaries on board,” he said, signalling renewed efforts to make the programme more accessible and transparent.