President Ruto Defends Ksh 73 Billion Housing Levy, Pledges Transparency and Tangible Benefits

President William Ruto has strongly defended the government’s controversial housing levy deductions, assuring Kenyans that the Ksh 73 billion collected is being managed responsibly and will deliver concrete results.

Addressing graduate interns under the government’s Affordable Housing Programme on Friday, January 23, 2026, at State House, Nairobi, Ruto dismissed criticism and threats of protests over the statutory deductions.

“There is nothing we cannot do if we believe in ourselves and provide the right leadership. If I were a coward, this project could not have happened given the threats of protests,” the President said, highlighting his commitment to ensuring the programme’s success.

Ruto lauded salaried Kenyans contributing to the housing fund, describing them as the true heroes behind the initiative. He assured the public that every cent of the levy would be accounted for and strictly used for its intended purposes.

“I want to thank public servants and working Kenyans who contributed to the housing fund. They are the heroes of this programme; they are the ones who have made this programme what it is,” Ruto said.

The President reiterated that the funds would support the construction of affordable houses, markets, and hostels, emphasizing full commitment to transparency and accountability.

“I take full responsibility for it. It must be put to good use, and it must develop the houses, the markets, and the hostels,” he added.

The remarks come amid ongoing public scrutiny over the housing levy, a key element of the government’s social development agenda aimed at providing affordable housing for low- and middle-income Kenyans.

The Affordable Housing Programme has already made significant strides, including the construction of the New Mukuru Housing Estate Lot 1 – Phase 1, featuring over 5,616 bedsitters, and continues to expand nationwide, offering hope to thousands of struggling families.

President Ruto’s address reinforced the government’s message that leadership, citizen contribution, and responsible management of public funds are essential drivers of national development.