The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Kenya’s construction industry stakeholders are sounding the alarm over a potential rise in substandard buildings, attributing it to the escalating cost of building materials.
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Their warnings come amid growing discontent over increased taxation on essential construction supplies—levies they argue are placing immense strain on developers and contractors. Industry players are now appealing to the government to review its tax regime affecting the sector.
“This additional tax will significantly inflate production costs. When you inform clients about the increased charges, they simply dismiss you and look for cheaper contractors,” said Hiram Mwangi, a contractor, expressing his frustrations.
Data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics indicates a slowdown in the construction sector, with a drop in building activity pointing to the mounting pressures faced by developers.
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During the groundbreaking of a new housing development in Kiserian, Kajiado County, Dr. Chrispus Wachira, Managing Director of Almond Estate Company, reiterated these concerns. He highlighted how rising input costs—including electricity—are contributing to declining home ownership.
“We urge the government to address construction cost drivers. When these costs rise, so does the final price of housing, making home ownership increasingly unattainable,” Wachira emphasized.
Local residents attending the Kiserian launch expressed optimism about the area’s transformation, noting its evolution from a remote, arid region to a growing residential center.
“Not long ago, no one would have wanted to live here—it was dry and abandoned. Now, people are settling here, which benefits us as contractors by providing more work,” said contractor Daniel Muiruri.
Investors at the event also commended the turnkey housing model used by Almond Estate and similar firms, noting it simplifies the homebuilding process for buyers and small investors.
“You don’t need to source materials or supervise construction. The firm handles everything while you focus on other priorities, trusting that they’ll deliver quality,” said Rev. Gikwa.
