Ruto Fires Back at Housing Critics During Teso Meeting

President William Ruto has defended the Government’s Affordable Housing Programme, arguing that scrapping the initiative would put jobs at risk and disrupt ongoing development projects.

Ruto spoke on Saturday, August 29, 2026, while hosting members and grassroots leaders from the Teso community at State Lodge, Eldoret.

The President used the meeting to defend his administration’s housing agenda and respond to opposition leaders who have pledged to abolish the programme if they take power.

Ruto argued that the Affordable Housing Programme goes beyond providing homes, saying it is also intended to create employment, support businesses and stimulate economic activity.

According to The Star, the President warned that abandoning the programme could put more than 1.1 million jobs at risk.

Ruto Mocks Chicken Argument

The President also took aim at criticism over whether high-rise affordable housing is suitable for residents who keep livestock.

Ruto appeared to respond to remarks associated with Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, who has previously questioned the suitability of high-rise housing for people who keep chickens.

“Another one even says that his biggest reason for opposing affordable housing is that a chicken cannot climb to the 12th floor,” Ruto said, drawing laughter from those attending the meeting.

The President suggested that practical solutions could be found for such concerns, including using lifts to transport items between floors.

Sh4 Billion Malaba Smart City Project

Ruto also announced a Sh4 billion investment in a proposed smart city in Malaba, Busia County, which is expected to feature 2,000 affordable housing units alongside other urban amenities.

He said the development would help transform the border town, create employment and business opportunities and attract new investment.

The announcement formed part of wider development discussions during the President’s engagement with the Teso community.

Teso leaders also highlighted infrastructure and economic projects they want prioritised in the region, including improved roads and enhanced trade infrastructure.

Teso Leaders Back Government Agenda

The meeting carried a significant political dimension, with Teso leaders expressing support for Ruto’s administration and his bid for a second term in 2027.

The President was also installed as an elder of the Teso community and given the traditional name Ojokotau, interpreted as “one with a big heart.”

Ruto’s engagement with the Teso community forms part of his wider outreach to communities across Kenya ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The President has increasingly used such engagements to promote his administration’s development record, defend government policies and challenge opposition proposals.

As the 2027 election approaches, the debate over affordable housing is emerging as an increasingly important political issue, with both the Government and its critics seeking to shape public opinion around the programme’s economic and social impact.