In a forthright statement made on May 21, 2025, George Ndege, the President of the Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK), voiced concern over the excessive political noise surrounding Kenya’s Affordable Housing Project.
Speaking in Nairobi during a professional forum, Ndege noted that although the initiative is commendable in principle, it risks being derailed by premature celebrations and politicization.
“The only people making noise about this housing project being successful are politicians,” Ndege stated. “I wish they could sit back, keep quiet, and wait for the work to be done.”
Ndege emphasized the importance of allowing architects, urban planners, engineers, and other professionals in the built environment to take the lead in delivering quality, sustainable housing solutions.
According to him, the continuous political grandstanding is not only distracting but also undermines the technical processes required to make the project viable and beneficial to the people.
The Architectural Association of Kenya had earlier submitted a detailed memorandum to the Senate on the Affordable Housing Bill.
Among its key recommendations were the alignment of the bill with existing planning and housing laws, clarity in the definition of “affordable housing,” and the inclusion of supporting infrastructure such as schools, roads, and hospitals.
The AAK also called for greater transparency in project financing and equitable distribution of housing across regions.
Ndege’s remarks come at a time when concerns are rising over the quality, sustainability, and long-term impact of the housing agenda. His call for restraint and professionalism signals a broader appeal for policymakers to prioritize substance over spectacle.
