Ruto Defends Housing Levy as Job Creation Debate Intensifies

Akoth
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President William Ruto has defended the Affordable Housing programme, dismissing calls by some politicians to scrap the housing levy amid mounting public pressure and ongoing court battles.

Speaking during the Second Africa Urban Forum held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on Thursday, April 8, 2026, the President criticised leaders opposing the housing programme, terming their remarks as populist and misleading.

Ruto said the housing programme has already created hundreds of thousands of jobs and warned that scrapping the levy would disrupt livelihoods and stall ongoing construction projects across the country.

He maintained that the initiative is a key pillar of the government’s development agenda, aimed at addressing the housing deficit while simultaneously boosting employment and economic growth.

The President argued that critics of the levy were ignoring the tangible benefits already being realised, particularly among young people and workers in the construction sector.

He noted that the programme has opened up opportunities not only for contractors but also for suppliers, artisans and other players within the value chain.

Ruto further emphasised that the housing levy is designed to ensure that ordinary Kenyans can access decent and affordable housing, a goal he said has remained elusive for decades.

According to him, the programme is structured to deliver long-term benefits, including improved living standards and the growth of sustainable urban centres.

He dismissed claims that the levy places an undue burden on workers, insisting that the contributions are an investment in the country’s future.

The President added that the government remains committed to transparency and accountability in the implementation of the housing programme.

At the same time, Ruto warned that halting the initiative would have far-reaching consequences, including job losses and delays in project completion.

He urged leaders to support policies that promote national development rather than undermine them for political gain.

The housing levy has faced legal challenges in recent months, with opponents questioning its constitutionality and the manner in which it is being implemented.

Despite these challenges, the government has continued to push forward with the programme, citing its potential to transform the housing sector and create employment opportunities.

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