A recent report by Habitat for Humanity International has revealed that many Kenyans are reducing their spending on essential items to afford housing costs. The report, titled "Home at What Cost?", indicates that rapid urbanization, growing housing deficits, and increasing climate risks are placing greater pressure on households, particularly low-income families. This trend is not unique to Kenya, as the report highlights that housing pressures continue to undermine health, financial security, and future opportunities across Africa and around the world.
According to Abi Riak, Area Vice President for Habitat for Humanity in Africa, families are demonstrating incredible resilience, but no family should have to choose between paying for housing and paying for food, education, or healthcare. The report surveyed at least 30,000 people across 22 countries, including Kenya, Côte d'Ivoire, Egypt, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and South Africa. The findings show that globally, 75% of respondents have cut back on at least one essential expense in the past year to afford housing costs.
The report highlights that 30% of respondents are spending less on food and have had to draw from emergency savings, while 13% have delayed or avoided medical care because of housing expenses. Furthermore, 58% of parents worry that housing costs limit opportunities for their children. The research also shows that housing pressures are affecting people's aspirations and quality of life. As African cities continue to grow, investing in decent and adequate housing must be recognized as a critical driver of sustainable development and shared prosperity.
Abi Riak emphasized that housing is more than shelter, as it can be a foundation for health, economic opportunity, climate resilience, and inclusive urban development. The report also highlights the connection between housing and climate change, with 30% of respondents globally expecting extreme weather to make living conditions more difficult within the next three years. Additionally, 18% of respondents say their homes do not adequately protect them from hazards such as flooding.
The report's findings reinforce the interconnection between housing and key development outcomes across Africa, including health, education, livelihoods, climate resilience, gender equality, and economic growth. Investments in housing generate benefits far beyond shelter, helping build stronger communities and more inclusive and sustainable cities. Habitat for Humanity International is urging governments, development partners, financial institutions, and the private sector to work together to expand access to decent, adequate, and climate-resilient housing.
On the occasion of the 2026 World Habitat Day, Abi Riak called on stakeholders to prioritize the need for adequate housing for all. The theme of this year's World Habitat Day is "Adequate Housing for All". The report's findings and recommendations are expected to inform policy innovations and investments in the housing sector. By working together, stakeholders can help ensure that every family has access to a home that supports their health, dignity, and opportunity to thrive.
The Kenyan government has been working to address the housing deficit in the country, with initiatives such as the Roysambu Military Housing Project. However, more needs to be done to address the scale of the problem. As the report highlights, housing affordability and inadequate housing conditions are affecting the health, educational, equity, economic outcomes, and future opportunities of families across Africa and around the world.
Key points
- Many Kenyans are cutting back on essential expenses to afford housing costs.
- The report surveyed at least 30,000 people across 22 countries, including Kenya.
- Investments in housing generate benefits far beyond shelter, helping build stronger communities and more inclusive and sustainable cities.
