President William Ruto has told off critics of the Affordable Housing Programme saying it will address unemployment in the country.
Speaking when he laid the foundation stone for 320 housing units at Majengo-Talai in Kericho County yesterday, the president reaffirmed his administration's commitment to successfully implement the housing project.
"I don't think there is anyone who needs persuasion on housing. Do we still have anybody who has any doubts, surely? In places where housing projects have started, lives have changed," said Ruto, who was on a development tour of Kericho County.
Although some Kenya Kwanza coalition lawmakers have opposed the affordable housing project, Ruto urged MPs to support government initiatives, reminding them that their re-election prospects would depend on project delivery.
He said the housing programme targets to create 300,000 jobs before the year ends, saying the focus should be on job creation rather than levy deductions.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua said the President was not presiding over the construction of affordable housing for his benefit but for the good of millions of Kenyans who deserve decent housing as enshrined in Article 43 of the Constitution.
He further noted that some of the houses should be ready for occupancy in the next two years, adding that the Kenya Kwanza administration will complete them in good time.
Ruto emphasized the government's readiness to implement Universal Health Coverage following the passage of necessary legislation.
"The process of registering Kenyans under the new health programme commences earnestly. We will utilise technology to thwart the exploitation of Kenyans, ensuring that those who previously stole from the National Hospital Insurance Fund are unable to exploit Kenyans under the new Universal Health Coverage," he said.
