On September 28, 2026, President William Ruto took a lighthearted swipe at Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna while advocating for the Affordable Housing Programme during a development tour in Taita Taveta County. Ruto stressed that rural counties should benefit from multi-story residential developments similar to those underway in major cities. He joked about previous opposition critiques regarding high-rise living and rural lifestyle needs, drawing laughter from the crowd.
The President's remarks stem from an exchange that began in July 2026, when Senator Sifuna criticized the design of 12-storey affordable housing blocks constructed in Funyula, Busia County. Sifuna argued that high-rise apartment models fail to account for the everyday lifestyle of rural and semi-urban households. He remarked that the design would make it difficult for residents to keep chickens, questioning how they would access the 12th floor.
Ruto previously responded during a State House engagement with informal sector workers, taking issue with leaders who mock national development programs without providing alternative policy solutions. Sifuna later retorted on social media, comparing the argument to debating with Senator Methu about potatoes. The exchange highlights the ongoing debate about the feasibility of high-rise housing in rural areas.
During the Sunday event, President Ruto expressed surprise at the extensive list of project requests presented by local leaders, interpreting the demands as a sign of strong public trust in his administration's execution capacity. He acknowledged the public's faith in his administration, citing the numerous requests as evidence.
The Kenya Kwanza administration continues to push its flagship housing initiative across all 47 counties, framing the multi-storey residential projects as vital drivers for urban planning, land conservation, and employment creation for local artisans. The programme aims to provide affordable housing while promoting sustainable development.
Ruto's visit to Taita Taveta County was part of his efforts to engage with local leaders and communities, addressing their concerns and expectations. The President's lighthearted approach to the chicken housing row has sparked mixed reactions, with some viewing it as a way to diffuse tension while others see it as dismissive of genuine concerns.
The affordable housing programme has been a key priority for the Ruto administration, with the President emphasizing its importance in promoting sustainable development and addressing the housing needs of Kenyans. The programme's success will depend on effective implementation and addressing concerns from critics like Senator Sifuna.
Key points
- President Ruto jokes about chicken housing row with Senator Sifuna during a development tour in Taita Taveta County.
- The affordable housing programme aims to provide multi-storey residential developments in rural areas, sparking debate about feasibility.
- The programme is a key priority for the Ruto administration, promoting sustainable development and addressing housing needs.
