In a strategic move to unlock investment opportunities and enhance the participation of Kenyan enterprises in national development projects, the President of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), Dr. Erick Rutto, held a consultative meeting with the Chief Executive Officer of the Affordable Housing Board, Ms. Sheila Waweru.

The meeting, held at the Affordable Housing Board offices, focused on exploring areas of mutual collaboration with a key emphasis on making affordable housing opportunities more accessible to KNCCI members across the country.

Dr. Rutto emphasized the need to streamline access to opportunities within the Affordable Housing Programme by leveraging KNCCI’s vast network of 47 county chapters to disseminate critical information and mobilize local enterprises at the grassroots level.

“The Chamber is keen on ensuring that our members, particularly SMEs and county-based businesses, are fully integrated into the affordable housing supply chain. We see immense potential in building partnerships that are inclusive, transparent, and empowering,” said Dr. Rutto.

A significant portion of the discussion revolved around potential tax incentives on components and materials related to the housing program, which could ease the cost burden on businesses and spur uptake of the initiative.

Recognizing the role of the informal sector in national development, Dr. Rutto underscored KNCCI’s commitment to engage the Juakali sector more proactively. He noted that with proper coordination through KNCCI’s structures, the Juakali artisans and micro-enterprises can significantly contribute to housing production while benefiting from job creation and income generation.

“KNCCI believes that innovation is key to transformation—this includes modern production techniques and smarter partnerships that enable informal sector players to participate competitively in large-scale government projects like affordable housing,” he added.

On her part, Ms. Waweru welcomed the proposed partnership and expressed interest in formalizing a working framework with KNCCI to ensure smooth coordination going forward.

As KNCCI continues to champion opportunities for the private sector, partnerships with key government agencies such as the Affordable Housing Board remain central to its mission of creating a vibrant, inclusive, and prosperous business ecosystem in Kenya.