The Thika Bustani (Starehe) Affordable Housing Project to deliver dignified homes and jobs – PS Hinga

Thika, Kenya 

The government has assured residents of Thika that the Thika Bustani Affordable Housing Project at Butuu – Starehe Grounds will transform living conditions in the area by replacing slum housing with modern, dignified and affordable homes.

Principal Secretary for Housing and Urban Development Charles Hinga Mwaura said the project, being implemented by the State Department for Housing, will uplift livelihoods and reshape the local landscape.

“This project seeks to replace slum conditions with modern, dignified and affordable homes that uplift community livelihoods and transform the local landscape,” said PS Hinga.

The project, located next to Ofafa, Starehe and Jamhuri estates, will feature six residential blocks with a total of 931 units, offering studio apartments, one-bedroom, two-bedroom and three-bedroom units across affordable, market and social categories.

The blocks are: A1 (G+15), A2 (G+15), B1 (G+14), B2 (G+14), B3 (G+14), and C (G+15). 

To support local commerce, the estate will also have 8 retail shops within the blocks and a separate commercial block with 16 shops.

According to the Ministry, the project has already created 266 direct jobs, including 152 skilled workers, 104 unskilled labourers and 10 student trainees from local technical institutions. The PS noted that the housing programme is a key driver of economic activity, supporting small businesses and supply chains in the region.

“The Affordable Housing Programme is not just about houses but also about jobs, skills, and economic growth,” Hinga said.

While welcoming the development, residents under the Jamhuri, Ofafa and Starehe Residents Association (JAMOFASTA) have voiced concerns over the affordability of the new units and possible displacement of long-time families. They are urging the government to guarantee priority allocation for current residents.