National Housing Policy approved

Cabinet has approved the National Housing Policy, which seeks to address the challenges faced in housing development such as housing finance, promotion of housing cooperatives as well as coordinating the housing sector, among others.

National Housing and Social Amenities Permanent Secretary David Munyoro said the policy is critical as it reviews the policies adopted by government in 1999 in line with new trends that are emerging in the housing sector.

Cooperatives are also acknowledged in the National Housing Policy and proposals are to the effect that government assists in the servicing of land which is expensive.

Housing cooperatives say they hope the policy will be implemented fully so that the community-based organisation can continue performing its complimentary role of provision of housing to the low income earners.

The National Housing Convention in 2009 aimed at providing a framework for funding of housing development and coordination in the housing sector.

Due to sanctions induced economic challenges in the country, the  government and local authorities have failed to embark on any major construction projects.

However, with the improving economic performance, banks are expected to also provide funding through mortgage finance cooperatives.