Eldoret’s Controversial Housing Project Nears Completion
Designed to provide decent housing for low- and middle-income earners, the project has also become a major source of employment for the youth.

Pioneer Affordable Housing in Eldoret. Photo/Boma Yangu.
By Joy Jeelagat
The ongoing affordable housing project in Eldoret, launched by President William Ruto on January 9, 2024, is now 90% complete.
Designed to provide decent housing for low- and middle-income earners, the project has also become a major source of employment for the youth.
During a visit to the construction site, Uasin Gishu Woman Representative Boss Gladys Sholei lauded the progress, dismissing criticism of the president’s development agenda on social media.
She emphasized that, despite opposition, the project has made significant strides, with all structures almost completed.
“There are hundreds of people employed on this site. I am happy to see women actively involved. Once completed, residents will have access to essential amenities, including proper sanitation, water, electricity, schools, and a dispensary,” Sholei stated.
Among the beneficiaries is a civil engineering graduate who has been employed as a site supervisor since February 2024. Another youth encouraged Generation Z to recognize the impact of the housing project.
Suzie Simiyu, a woman living with a disability, shared her gratitude, stating that her earnings from the project have enabled her to pay school fees with ease.
Beyond providing employment to locals, the initiative has significantly boosted the Jua Kali sector. Local artisans have secured contracts to supply metalwork, including doors, window grills, and vents, further strengthening small-scale enterprises.
The Pioneer affordable housing project, which has been under construction for six months, comprises 2,148 housing units and 104 shops, employing an average of 600 workers daily. One of the buildings rises 15 stories high.