Kenya is ramping up efforts to accelerate its Affordable Housing project by inviting collaboration with South Korean firms. President William Ruto’s administration is eager to leverage advanced Korean technologies to enhance housing infrastructure across the nation.
Charles Hinga, Principal Secretary for Housing and Urban Development, shared this vision with The Korea Herald on September 10, stating, “We are keen on inviting South Korean companies to invest in and deploy their advanced technologies in Kenya’s housing sector.”
Kenya faces a severe housing deficit, with less than 50,000 units produced annually against a target of 200,000, leaving over 2 million units short and nearly 61% of urban households living in slums. Hinga revealed, “We have the funds and are actively seeking Korean builders to help us realize these ambitious housing projects,” citing a housing levy introduced in 2023 that currently collects Ksh60 million monthly.
The government aims to construct standardized housing designs, including affordable and market-rate units, and mixed-use developments that could accommodate up to 10,000 residents. “Our long-term objective is to build one million houses over the next five years,” Hinga asserted.
To attract South Korean investors, the government is offering incentives such as tax holidays and affordable power. Hinga emphasized the need for local production facilities, stating, “Ultimately, we want these companies to establish production facilities in Kenya,” fostering employment and economic growth.
