The government has unveiled a new framework for the allocation of houses under President William Ruto's Affordable Housing Programme, categorizing them based on salary and income scales.

The revised Affordable Housing Bill, slated for debate in the Senate, outlines three main housing categories: Social Housing Units, Affordable Housing, and Affordable Middle Class.

Social Housing Units: Designed to be the most affordable option, these units target individuals earning below Ksh20,000 per month, including those in the informal sector. The houses, measuring a minimum of 18 square meters, will range from one to three rooms, with prices ranging from Ksh756,000 to Ksh1.5 million.

Affordable Housing: Allocated to individuals earning between Ksh20,000 and Ksh149,000 monthly, these houses offer larger living spaces, with sizes starting at 30 square meters. The units, available in studio, two-bedroom, or three-bedroom configurations, will be priced between Ksh864,000 and Ksh2.5 million, depending on quality variations.

Affordable Middle Class: Designed for middle to high-income earners, these housing units offer a minimum plinth area of 80 square meters. Targeted at individuals with monthly incomes exceeding Ksh149,000, the units will feature two-bedroom or three-bedroom layouts, priced between Ksh3.8 million and Ksh5.1 million.

In addition to income criteria, applicants must fulfill specific documentation requirements, including proof of requisite deposit, incorporation certificate for corporate entities, Kenya Revenue Authority personal identification number certificate, and tax compliance certificate.

The Bill also stipulates that preference will be given to marginalized persons, vulnerable groups, youth, women, and persons with disabilities in the allocation process.

The introduction of these housing categories underscores the government's commitment to providing affordable housing solutions tailored to different income brackets, thereby addressing the diverse housing needs of Kenyan citizens.