Kisumu is on the brink of a major transformation as the Sh5.8 billion Lumumba Affordable Housing Project enters its final phase, with a government inspection team confirming that construction has reached 90 percent completion. The milestone marks significant progress for one of Nyanza’s largest housing initiatives, which aims to dramatically expand access to quality and affordable homes in the lakeside city.
During an oversight visit on Friday, the National Development Implementation Committee (NDIC), led by the Principal Secretary for Immigration and Citizen Services, Dr. Belio Kipsang, affirmed that the project remains firmly within schedule. Dr. Kipsang noted that the works are progressing at an impressive pace and are expected to be fully completed by June 2026, reinforcing the government’s broader push to address Kenya’s housing deficit.
The development—strategically located within Kisumu City—features 15 residential blocks rising 17 floors each. Once completed, it will deliver 2,348 units categorized into social housing, affordable units, and market-rate apartments to cater to diverse income groups. The PS commended the contractor for a sustained work rhythm, highlighting that the team is working around the clock to meet the delivery timeline.
Beyond the physical transformation of Kisumu’s skyline, the project has evolved into a major economic driver for the region. Since breaking ground in June last year, it has employed roughly 1,200 workers daily, most of whom are local youth. These jobs span skilled and semi-skilled roles, including masonry, steel fabrication, plumbing, electrical installations, and final finishing works—offering a crucial source of income and experience for young people in the region.
Demand for the units continues to grow, with Nyanza Regional Director for Housing and Urban Development, Jared Buoga, reporting an uptake rate of about 60 percent. He explained that Tyson’s has been appointed to manage applications and sales, while all transactions are processed through the government’s BomaYangu platform. Buyers of social and affordable units are required to pay a 5 percent deposit before transitioning into the tenant-purchase scheme that spreads payments over an extended period.
The ripple effects of the development stretch beyond housing and employment. According to Kisumu National Polytechnic’s Industry Liaison Officer, James Olando, the site has become a training hub through the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) programme. The initiative identifies and certifies workers with technical skills but no formal credentials, enhancing their eligibility for employment both locally and abroad. So far, 129 workers have been certified, while 256 more are undergoing assessment.
To further encourage youth participation, the government has reduced the assessment fees from Sh25,000 to Sh3,000, while on-site assessments cost only Sh1,500. With nearly 80 planned housing projects across Nyanza—37 of which are already under construction—the region is positioning itself as a model for affordable housing rollout. Buoga urged Kenyans, including those in the diaspora, to register on BomaYangu or dial *834# at a fee of Sh200 to apply for units, signalling a strong future for accessible and dignified housing in the region.
