The Kisumu County Government, in collaboration with the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), has officially launched a major housing development project in the upmarket Milimani Estate. The ambitious urban regeneration initiative will see the construction of 162 modern residential units over an 18-month period.
Speaking to the media on Monday, Kisumu City Manager Abala Wanga confirmed that the housing project will comprise 102 two-bedroom apartments and 54 three-bedroom units, all equipped with servant quarters. The project is designed to meet Milimani’s premium urban standards, with vertical structures rising up to nine floors.
“The housing units in total are 162 modern houses, 102 two-bedroom, and 54 three-bedroom units with servant quarters,” Wanga said. “The project timeline is 18 months, and we’ve capped the development at nine floors to preserve the estate’s character while optimizing space.”
Groundbreaking for the multi-storey development is scheduled for Thursday, October 9, and will be presided over by Kisumu Governor Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o alongside senior NSSF officials.
Wanga noted that the county is also prioritizing critical infrastructure upgrades in and around the estate, including improvements to water supply, sewer systems, pedestrian walkways, and security installations.
“As we build upwards, we’re also ensuring supporting infrastructure, water systems, sewer networks, walkways, and protection units are addressed comprehensively,” he added.
The Milimani project is part of a broader urban regeneration agenda outlined in Kisumu’s geospatial development plan. Wanga said the county aims to replace outdated housing stock that no longer meets safety or structural standards.
“We’re doing urban regeneration. We want modern housing that aligns with Milimani standards. Kisumu is moving swiftly to elevate its urban status,” he emphasized.
Wanga also announced that similar affordable housing projects are being planned for other city estates including Arina, Ondiek, Kibuye, Lumumba, and Makasembo, with additional developments in Muhoroni and Ahero set to begin soon.
He encouraged private landowners in Kisumu to consider development partnerships with investors, suggesting models where owners contribute land and receive a share of housing units in return.
“If you have land in Kisumu and can’t develop it, partner with someone who can. You can live on some floors and lease out the rest to generate income,” Wanga urged.
The Kisumu Urban Regeneration Scheme is expected to roll out across nine estates before the end of Governor Nyong’o’s term, positioning the city as a leading model of county-led urban transformation in Kenya.
