Protest Erupts in Nairobi as Demonstrators Demand Swift Implementation of Housing Levy

A group of Jua Kali artisans and slum residents on Thursday gathered in the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD) to advocate for the implementation of the Housing Levy.

Their main concern is that if the project does not move forward, it will have a significant impact on their livelihoods. With banners held high and voices raised, the spirited group proclaimed that the successful execution of the Housing Levy is not just a government initiative but a lifeline for countless Kenyans yearning for improved living conditions. Residents from informal settlements in Nairobi lent their unwavering support to the cause, expressing hope that affordable housing has the potential to transform the quality of life for many.

The gathering culminated in a plan to present a petition to Parliament, urging lawmakers to prioritize the implementation of the Housing Levy. Videos capturing the essence of the protest have flooded online platforms, portraying a sea of signs proclaiming, "Housing Levy is the solution for better housing" and "Let's build houses and strengthen our economy." Several vehicles also participated in the protest, actively encouraging others to join the cause.

Not only did the protesters keep the crowd entertained, but they also captured the attention of those passing by. Standing atop a truck, an energetic MC led the gathered crowd in a synchronized chant of 'nyumba, nyumba, nyumba'.

Meanwhile, some Kenyans have questioned the authenticity of the demonstrations, suggesting that they may be financially supported by the government to promote the housing levy agenda. This scepticism arises against the backdrop of a previous ruling in November, where a three-judge bench declared the Housing Levy unconstitutional and discriminatory. President Ruto, undeterred by the court's decision, boldly asserted his commitment to implementing the levy. "I am telling you this time round, I am implementing it, and I am so determined because we must do it. Whatever it takes we are going to implement it," he announced in early December.

Additionally, a group of workers from Nakuru County also expressed their discontent with the court ruling, emphasizing that halting the projects would result in job losses and a rise in criminal activities