Affordable Housing Project in Wote Spurs Local Economic Growth and Job Creation

Wote, Kenya — The ongoing construction of 900 affordable housing units in Wote town, Makueni County, is delivering a major economic boost to the region, according to local officials. The project, valued at over KSh 2 billion, is not only addressing housing shortages but also stimulating the local economy through job creation and the promotion of local enterprise.

County Commissioner Duncan Darusi reported that the government-backed initiative is prioritizing the use of locally sourced materials — including timber, sand, and cement — to maximize benefits for area suppliers and small-scale producers. “This project is not just about homes; it’s about empowering the local economy and ensuring the community is actively involved,” Darusi said.

Currently, approximately 275 workers are employed at the construction site, with plans to expand the workforce to 500 by the end of the month. The majority of these positions have been filled by residents, offering much-needed employment opportunities in the area.

In addition to on-site jobs, the ripple effects of the project are being felt across Wote. Women vendors and local entrepreneurs are capitalizing on the increased foot traffic, selling meals and providing daily services to workers. This informal economic activity has injected new life into the town’s small businesses.

Launched in July 2024, the housing scheme is now about one-third complete. Officials say the initiative is part of a broader national strategy to improve living conditions while driving grassroots economic development.

“The benefits go beyond bricks and mortar,” Darusi added. “This is a transformative investment — one that’s already reshaping livelihoods here in Wote.”

The Makueni project is among several similar developments being rolled out across Kenya as part of the national affordable housing agenda, a key pillar of President William Ruto’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Plan (BETA).