Housing Principal Secretary Charles Hinga has issued a directive instructing individuals residing in six estates in Nairobi's Eastlands area to vacate their homes within a two-month timeframe.

In a letter addressed to Lands Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome, PS Hinga identified the affected areas as Jogoo Road Phase I & II, Jamaa, Mbotela, Ahero, and Mawenzi Gardens.

The evacuation aims to make room for the construction of affordable housing units, which will be made available for purchase or lease by Kenyans.

Affected families, who have been occupying old government houses, are given until April 30, 2024, to relocate.

"The Government is implementing the Affordable Housing Program (AHP) as part of the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). Pursuant to this, several old estates have been identified for redevelopment to increase rental stock, offer houses for sale at affordable rates, and create job opportunities for the youth," stated PS Hinga.

"To facilitate this redevelopment, it is imperative to evacuate all tenants residing in these Government estates immediately."

Furthermore, tenants are instructed to vacate their premises and settle any outstanding rent arrears, utility bills, and service charges. PS Hinga emphasized that evacuated tenants would receive priority in purchasing or renting housing units upon completion of the redevelopment.

The affordable housing initiative is a cornerstone of President William Ruto's legacy, with a focus on creating job opportunities and meeting the high demand for housing infrastructure in Kenya.

According to State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohammed, since President Ruto took office, over 36,092 new housing units have been initiated, generating a significant number of jobs. Additionally, the affordable Buxton Estate housing project, initiated under the administration of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, has been successfully handed over to buyers, marking progress in addressing housing needs.