The Nairobi City County Assembly's Planning and Housing Committee has launched an investigation into the stalled Jeevanjee Housing Project, undertaken by Jabavu Village Limited. The probe follows complaints from investors, including Taqwa SACCO, whose members have paid Sh387 million for housing units yet to be delivered. The committee aims to establish the circumstances behind the project's delay despite reported substantial funding.
Taqwa SACCO representative Dunia Abdi Jarso appeared before the committee, stating that over 200 members invested in the project, with some using their pension benefits or life savings. The delays have caused a financial, governance, and trust crisis within the SACCO, with members questioning their investment management. Abdi noted that the project attracted investors from various backgrounds seeking affordable housing.
Planning and Housing Committee Chairman Geoffrey Majiwa said the Assembly seeks to clarify the project's status and the role of county officials in overseeing its development. The committee has summoned the project's investors, directors of Jabavu Village Limited, county officials, and affected homeowners. Majiwa emphasized the need for answers, given the significant figures involved and the public's interest.
The committee will investigate the project's financing, implementation, contractual obligations, and county officials' oversight role. They will also examine a reported Sh1.9 billion loan secured using a county title deed and whether the funds were used for the intended purpose. The project was expected to be completed within two years but remains unfinished seven years later.
The delays have sparked concerns over accountability and the delivery of promised housing units. Investors, including retirees, workers, and families, had sought affordable and decent housing. The committee's inquiry aims to determine the way forward for affected investors and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
The Nairobi Assembly's investigation is expected to shed light on the project's stalling and provide clarity on the management of investor funds. The probe may lead to recommendations for future actions, including potential reforms to prevent similar delays in housing projects. The committee's findings will be crucial in resolving the crisis and restoring trust among investors.
The Jeevanjee Housing Project's stalling has significant implications for the investors and the broader community. The Assembly's investigation will focus on finding solutions and ensuring that the project is completed or that affected investors receive fair compensation. The outcome will be closely watched by stakeholders, including investors, county officials, and the general public.
Key points
- The Nairobi Assembly's Planning and Housing Committee has summoned key stakeholders, including the project's investors, directors, and county officials, to provide information on the stalled Jeevanjee Housing Project.
- Over 200 Taqwa SACCO members invested in the project, paying a total of Sh387 million, but the promised housing units remain undelivered seven years after the project began.
- The committee will investigate the project's financing, implementation, and contractual obligations to determine the cause of the delays and the way forward for affected investors.
