Turkana County is set to witness significant strides in housing development, with the government announcing ambitious plans to address the accommodation needs of its residents.
The latest initiative involves the construction of 1,000 hostel rooms and associated amenities at Turkana University College, as part of the broader affordable housing program.
In addition to this, proposals have been tabled for the construction of 700 housing units in Lodwar and another 300 in Kakuma.
These efforts aim to alleviate the housing shortage and provide decent living spaces for the growing population.
To ensure community involvement and gather valuable input, a public participation forum has been scheduled at the Lodwar Youth Polytechnic this coming Saturday, April 27.
Residents are encouraged to attend and share their perspectives on the proposed housing projects.
County Housing Director Brian Kangogo unveiled these plans during a County Service Delivery Committee meeting held in Lodwar.
Chaired by County Commissioner Julius Kavita, the meeting saw the participation of heads of various government departments and agencies, signaling a collaborative effort towards addressing housing challenges.
During the meeting, concerns were raised regarding the deteriorating condition of some civil servants’ houses. Recommendations were put forth for increased funds dedicated to renovation efforts, underscoring the importance of maintaining existing housing infrastructure.
Despite Turkana County currently boasting 482 housing units intended for national and county government staff, it has become evident that these accommodations are insufficient to cater to the needs of all personnel. Hence, the pressing need for additional housing units to bridge the gap.
Furthermore, participants at the forum were apprised of plans to review house rents, which have remained unchanged for many years. This move aims to ensure fairness and affordability in housing costs, reflecting the evolving economic landscape.
In tandem with the housing initiatives, the government has outlined its commitment to economic stimulus through the construction of one market in every constituency. Kangogo highlighted the commencement of construction for the Lokichar market, signaling tangible progress towards this goal.
Overall, these developments signify a concerted effort by the government to address housing challenges and stimulate economic growth in Turkana County.
With community engagement and collaborative partnerships, these initiatives hold the promise of improving living standards and fostering sustainable development in the region.
