Mukuru Residents Chant ‘Kumi Bila Break’ During President Ruto’s Address

President William Ruto on Tuesday presided over the handover of 1,080 newly completed affordable housing units to residents of Mukuru. 

The event, marked by enthusiastic chants of “Kumi bila break,” reflecting public support for the administration, took place at the site of the Mukuru Affordable Housing Project, the largest such development in Kenya. The Mukuru project, sprawling across 56 acres, ultimately aims to deliver 13,248 residential units, addressing a critical housing deficit in the country. 

Government officials highlighted the transformative potential of the project, with Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura announcing that the area, formerly known as a slum, would now be designated Mukuru Estate, symbolising improved living standards and a structured community. The Affordable Housing Programme is a central pillar of President Ruto’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), which aims to construct at least 200,000 new housing units annually over the next five years. 

This initiative seeks to provide shelter for more than five million Kenyans, particularly those living in informal settlements. Mwaura details the pricing structure of the housing units, designed to accommodate various income levels. Social housing units will be available for as little as Sh3,900 per month, with other units priced at Sh7,250 and Sh21,160 for the middle-income bracket. This pricing aims to ensure homeownership accessibility for citizens earning Sh20,000 or less.

During the event, President Ruto articulated his leadership philosophy and vision for Kenya’s transformation, emphasising collaboration with leaders committed to national development over political expediency. He denounced tribalism and divisive rhetoric, stating that he would not align with individuals who engage in regressive politics.

“I will continue to lead from the front as we transform this nation,” Ruto stated, praising opposition leader Raila Odinga for his willingness to work towards national unity despite their past political rivalry. 

The Mukuru housing project aligns with the broader objectives of the BETA framework, designed to uplift low-income communities by creating opportunities for financial independence and economic mobility. By prioritising affordable housing, the government intends to stimulate job creation, increase home ownership, and expand access to basic services. Ruto acknowledges the challenges inherent in the initiative but insists that difficult decisions are necessary for meaningful change. 

“When we said bottom-up transformation, we meant it. We knew it wouldn’t be easy, but we have made deliberate choices, and the results are evident. This is how we will transform our nation,” he said.

As Kenya grapples with economic constraints, including inflation and the rising cost of living, affordable housing is positioned as a key intervention to alleviate pressure on struggling citizens. The government argues that stable housing enhances economic security, allowing residents to redirect finances toward other essential needs. President Ruto assures Kenyans of the government’s unwavering commitment to economic and social development, expressing confidence that ongoing efforts would remain on track. 

“By the grace of God, nothing is going to stop us from achieving Kenya’s transformation,” he affirmed.