Nairobi:Millions of families across Africa are forced to sacrifice essential needs like food, healthcare, and education due to rising housing costs, as revealed by new research from Habitat for Humanity International.
According to Kenya News Agency, the research findings, released to coincide with World Habitat Day 2026, highlight the severe housing crisis exacerbated by rapid urbanization, housing deficits, and climate change impacts. The study, “Home at What Cost?”, surveyed over 30,000 individuals across 22 countries, including Kenya, Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and South Africa.
The report indicates that 75% of respondents globally have reduced at least one essential expense in the past year to afford housing. Around 30% reported spending less on food or using emergency savings, while 13% delayed or avoided medical care due to housing expenses.
Habitat for Humanity emphasized that inadequate and unaffordable housing is a significant development challenge affecting health, education, livelihoods, and economic security. Abi Riak, Area Vice President for Habitat for Humanity in Africa, stressed the importance of decent housing as a foundation for healthier communities and economic opportunities.
The study also highlights the impact of housing costs on the next generation, with 58% of parents concerned about limited opportunities for their children. Additionally, the report connects housing and climate change, noting that vulnerable communities face increased exposure to climate-related disasters.
Slightly over 30% of respondents globally anticipate that extreme weather will deteriorate living conditions in the next three years, and 18% stated their homes do not provide adequate protection against hazards like flooding.
Habitat for Humanity warned that the situation could worsen as African cities expand and climate shocks become more frequent, urging investment in decent, affordable, and climate-resilient housing.
The organization calls for coordinated efforts from governments, development partners, financial institutions, and the private sector to address the housing deficit, emphasizing that investment in housing can enhance livelihoods, health, education, gender equality, and climate resilience.
