Milka Moraa secures affordable housing unit following public outcry
The government has allocated an affordable housing unit to Milka Moraa, a mother of two who was publicly humiliated in a church while seeking financial assistance to pay her rent. The move follows widespread public outcry over her treatment and highlights the government’s commitment to providing dignified housing to vulnerable citizens.
Speaking during the onboarding ceremony at Ardhi House, Lands, Public Works, Housing, and Urban Development Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome officially registered Moraa under the Affordable Housing Program (AHP) through the Boma Yangu platform. Moraa’s new home, a 19-square-meter studio unit in Mukuru, is part of the government’s initiative to bridge Kenya’s housing deficit.
Moraa’s plight gained national attention after a viral video showed her being rebuked and removed from a church while appealing for help to pay rent. This led to a wave of support from Kenyans, with police officer Koprosami, a well-known philanthropist, taking the lead in mobilizing assistance. His efforts, alongside social media activism, drew the government’s attention, leading to Moraa’s inclusion in the Affordable Housing Program.
In her remarks, CS Wahome emphasized that homeownership should be a right for every Kenyan, stating. “Just like Moraa has acquired a studio, every Kenyan deserves the opportunity to own a home. The government is committed to making housing affordable and accessible to all. We encourage every eligible citizen to register and begin their journey to owning a home today.”
Moraa’s unit, valued at Ksh 640,000, requires a 10 percent deposit (Ksh 64,000), which has already been settled. Her monthly payment will be Ksh 3,900, which is even lower than the Ksh 4,000 she was previously paying in rent. The house is set to be completed and handed over within two months as part of the 1,080 units scheduled for release in March 2025.
Moraa expressed her gratitude, saying, “I never imagined that my struggles would lead me to homeownership. I thank all Kenyans who supported me and the government for this opportunity.”
The Mukuru Kwa Ruben housing project, where Moraa’s home is located, is one of the government’s flagship developments under the Affordable Housing Program, with 13,200 units under construction. The project is part of a broader national initiative aimed at addressing Kenya’s housing deficit by providing social, affordable, and market-rate housing options.
CS Wahome also acknowledged Bishop Ng’ang’a, whose controversial actions inadvertently contributed to raising awareness about the program. She stated that his remarks, though criticized, ultimately helped amplify the importance of the Affordable Housing initiative.
Kenyans interested in acquiring homes under the Affordable Housing Program can register on Boma Yangu and choose a preferred unit. The purchase options include:
- Outright cash purchase – Full payment upon purchase.
- Home loan – Financing through partner financial institutions.
- Tenant purchase scheme (TPS) – A structured monthly payment plan.
With as little as Ksh 3,900 per month, low-income earners can transition from renting to homeownership. Additionally, social housing applicants can receive up to 10 percent financial assistance toward the purchase price.
Moraa’s journey from eviction to homeownership is a testament to the power of public solidarity and government intervention. Her story underscores the significance of the Affordable Housing Program in ensuring that every Kenyan, regardless of income level, has a path to owning a home.
CS Wahome urged more Kenyans to take advantage of the program, stating. “Whether through outright purchase, home loans, or the flexible Tenant Purchase Scheme, homeownership is now within reach for all Kenyans.”
Moraa’s story is expected to inspire many others to register and secure a home through the Boma Yangu platform.