The Cabinet Secretary for Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry (Kenya), Deborah Barasa inspected key national government development projects in Trans-Nzoia County, including the Affordable Housing project at Maili Tatu and a hostel construction project at Kitale National Polytechnic.
The Affordable Housing project, being implemented under the government’s Affordable Housing Programme through the Boma Yangu platform, aims to provide decent and affordable homes to residents while creating employment opportunities for local youth.
Speaking during the inspection, Dr. Barasa said the government remains committed to expanding access to affordable housing across the country while stimulating local economies through construction-related jobs.
“This project is not only about providing houses but also about improving livelihoods through employment and economic activities generated around the development,” she said.
Dr. Barasa also toured the ongoing hostel construction project at Kitale National Polytechnic, which is expected to ease accommodation challenges for students and support the growth of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
She noted that investing in student accommodation is critical in creating a conducive learning environment and strengthening the country’s technical education sector.
“Providing adequate accommodation for students is important in supporting the expansion of technical education and ensuring learners have a comfortable environment to focus on their studies,” she said.
The CS who was accompanied by national government administrators, said the inspection was part of ongoing assessments of development projects ahead of a planned visit to the county by President William Ruto.
“We are assessing the progress of these projects ahead of the planned visit of the President to ensure that government initiatives are on track and benefiting residents,” the official said.
Dr. Barasa also highlighted other ongoing development initiatives in the county, noting that the government is constructing more than 10 modern markets in Trans Nzoia to support traders and boost local economic activities.
She urged residents to remain united and avoid divisive politics that could undermine development efforts.
“Let us not be divided along tribal lines. Development is meant to benefit everyone, and we must speak in one language when it comes to the progress of our county,” she said.
The CS further encouraged residents to register for the affordable housing units through the Boma Yangu platform, assuring them that the process is transparent and open to all eligible Kenyans.
Local leaders who accompanied her during the inspection welcomed the projects, saying they will play a key role in improving living standards, supporting education, and strengthening the local economy.
