By The Weekly Vision Correspondent in Busia
In a significant step towards addressing his county’s housing challenges, Busia County Governor Paul Nyongesa Otuoma has appointed a Rural and Urban Affordable Housing Committee. The appointments, formalised under Gazette Notice No. 8521 dated 12 August 2024 and published in The Kenya Gazette No. 139, Nairobi, on 27 June 2025, were made under Section 34 of the Affordable Housing Act, 2024.
This initiative marks a pivotal moment in Busia County’s efforts to enhance access to decent and affordable housing. The committee, chaired by Dr. Seth Harrison Wetoyi Adams, comprises Eng. Christopher Magero Shanyuma, Wilberforce Joe Ochuka, Rose Mulaa Osama, Everlyne Teresiah Mbingi, and Vincent Charles Wanjala, the latter serving ex officio.
Their three-year term, effective from 12 August 2024, involves collaborating with the national Affordable Housing Board to develop strategic frameworks and investment programmes tailored to Busia’s housing needs. Under the Affordable Housing Act, 2024, the committee is tasked with advising the county governor and formulating five-year and annual investment plans to advance these housing initiatives. The committee’s members, serving in a part-time advisory capacity, will receive sitting allowances and expense reimbursements set by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission, ensuring prudent use of public resources.
Busia County, with its diverse rural and urban populations, faces unique challenges, including limited infrastructure and economic constraints. The committee’s multidisciplinary expertise, encompassing engineering, community leadership, and administrative skills, positions it to address these challenges holistically, from project design to community engagement.
By tailoring national housing policies to local realities, the committee aims to deliver sustainable, culturally appropriate, and economically viable housing solutions. Governor Otuoma’s appointments reflect a commitment to inclusive governance, fostering collaboration with the national government, private sector, and local communities. Public participation, through community forums and consultations, will be critical to ensuring that housing programmes meet the needs and aspirations of Busia’s residents.
This initiative offers renewed hope for many in the county who aspire to own decent, affordable homes. With the robust legal framework provided by the Affordable Housing Act, 2024, the committee has a unique opportunity to transform Busia’s housing landscape over the next three years.
Its success will serve as a model for other counties striving to meet Kenya’s housing goals. Residents are encouraged to contact Busia County government offices for more information on the Affordable Housing Act or to join ongoing housing initiatives.
