A sharp dispute has erupted between the State Department for Housing and Urban Development and the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) over the latter’s alleged involvement in drafting the Affordable Housing Regulations.
Principal Secretary Charles Hinga on Friday defended the government’s position, asserting that COTU was actively involved in the formulation of the regulatory framework under the Affordable Housing Act, 2024. Hinga noted that the Act guarantees COTU a seat on the Affordable Housing Board, ensuring workers’ voices are represented in the programme’s oversight and implementation.
“COTU-K voluntarily forwarded a name to be its representative in the formulation of the enabling regulations a fact that has escaped the top leadership of the workers’ umbrella body,” Hinga stated.
The clarification came after COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli denied any formal participation in the drafting of the regulations. Atwoli maintained that the union was not consulted and would have objected to provisions allowing the Affordable Housing Levy to be used for developing broader infrastructure already covered by the national budget.
“If there was any consultation, we would never have agreed to the levy being used to build amenities and infrastructure,” Atwoli said. He further challenged the State Department to produce written resolutions, minutes, or official correspondence proving COTU’s endorsement of the regulatory framework.
PS Hinga defended the government’s broader approach, stressing that affordable housing must go hand-in-hand with essential infrastructure such as schools, health facilities, and markets to create complete, livable communities.
“Modern housing is more than just shelter,” Hinga said. “It requires amenities that support everyday life, aligning with international best practices and Kenya’s commitments under SDG 11 and the New Urban Agenda.”
The dispute underscores a deeper concern from labour leaders that the housing levy, which is deducted from workers’ salaries, could be diverted from its original purpose of funding decent, affordable homes for workers. Atwoli warned that unless this trend is stopped, the levy could become a tool for financing unrelated government projects.
Despite the tensions, PS Hinga emphasized that the government remains open to dialogue with all stakeholders to ensure the success of the Affordable Housing Programme.
