The County Government of Kisumu has officially handed over the old Ondiek Estate to the National Housing Corporation (NHC) for a major redevelopment project. The announcement, made by Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o, marks the settlement of a long-standing Sh900 million debt owed by the county to NHC. This debt, inherited from the defunct Kisumu Municipal Council, was used to develop Ondiek and other estates in the lakeside city more than four decades ago.
During a meeting with Washington Agutu, NHC’s General Manager in charge of estates, Nyong’o explained that the redevelopment would involve demolishing the old, dilapidated houses in the estate to make way for modern high-rise housing units. The project is part of a larger initiative by the county government, NHC, and other partners aimed at addressing the growing housing deficit in Kisumu and revitalizing the city’s urban landscape.
Ondiek Estate, one of the oldest in Kisumu, has long been a symbol of the city’s housing challenges. Established over four decades ago, the estate was initially meant for Municipal Council and national government officers. However, over time, the estate has deteriorated, and most of its buildings are now unfit for habitation.
“We had a successful meeting with the NHC to explore key areas of collaboration, including the county’s debt status and partnership in housing development,” Nyong’o said. “A major highlight of our discussions was the resolution of the long-standing Sh900 million dispute between the County Government of Kisumu and NHC. As part of the final settlement, we have agreed to hand over Ondiek Estate for redevelopment, paving the way for a mutually beneficial resolution that advances housing development in Kisumu.”
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To enhance access to affordable and modern housing in the city, Nyong’o urged NHC to partner with the county government in developing more estates in the region. He also noted that his administration was working on legislation to shape Kisumu County’s affordable housing sector.
“My administration remains steadfast in its commitment to quality and affordable housing, which is a key pillar in our vision for a modern, transformed Kisumu,” Nyong’o added.
Ondiek Estate now joins the list of other old estates in Kisumu being redeveloped, including Makasembo, which is being redeveloped by LAPFUND; Anderson Estate, which is being redeveloped by LAPTRUST; and Lumumba Estate, which is being redeveloped through the National Government’s Affordable Housing Programme.
By Fredrick Odiero.
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