President William Ruto has announced a decisive plan to completely eradicate Kibera slum, replacing it with modern affordable housing, rather than pursuing incremental upgrades. During an inspection of the Soweto Affordable Housing Project in Kibra on May 23, 2025, Ruto emphasized that his administration’s goal is not to marginally improve living conditions but to entirely transform the area into a planned residential estate. His remarks signal a major shift in government policy, moving away from traditional slum upgrading programs toward full-scale redevelopment.
Ruto defended the feasibility of the plan by pointing to the progress of the Soweto housing project, challenging critics who had doubted the government’s ability to deliver on its affordable housing promises. He stressed that the initiative is not just about providing shelter but also about restoring dignity to residents and offering long-term solutions to urban poverty. The government is currently finalizing the registration of Kibra’s Soweto C and D residents, with an estimated 11,000 people expected to be enumerated. Those verified will receive residency cards, which will guarantee them priority in securing new homes once construction is complete.
Beyond housing, the project has already created employment opportunities for local youth, aligning with Ruto’s broader economic agenda under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation (BETA) plan. The Kibra initiative mirrors the recent handover of 1,080 housing units in Mukuru, another major informal settlement in Nairobi, where a larger project is set to deliver over 13,000 units.
However, the ambitious plan raises important questions. Past slum redevelopment efforts have faced criticism for displacing low-income residents without adequate alternatives, and concerns remain about whether the new housing will truly be affordable for current Kibra inhabitants. The success of this initiative will hinge on careful implementation, ensuring that the most vulnerable are not excluded in the push for urban renewal.
Ruto’s vision represents a bold attempt to redefine Kenya’s approach to informal settlements. If executed effectively, the eradication of Kibera could serve as a model for other slums across the country. Yet, its ultimate impact will depend on transparency, community involvement, and a genuine commitment to inclusive development.
