Nairobi:A recent survey by Habitat for Humanity International has revealed that nearly 90% of Kenyans are cutting back on essential spending to afford housing. The findings were part of a global housing research report released in Nairobi on World Habitat Day.
According to Kenya News Agency, the survey, conducted between April and June 2026 across 22 countries, included around 1,400 respondents from Kenya. The report highlights that the high cost of housing is compelling many Kenyan households to sacrifice basic needs to maintain their homes.
The survey found that 55% of Kenyan respondents are concerned that an unexpected financial shock could jeopardize their housing stability. A similar percentage indicated they have accepted housing-related safety risks due to the lack of affordable or available safer options.
Eileen Mokaya, National Director of Habitat for Humanity Kenya, emphasized the need for safe, decent, and affordable housing. She mentioned initiatives like Building Resilient and Habitable Housing through Climate-Smart Construction Technologies to address these challenges. Mokaya urged collaboration among the government, private sector, communities, and development partners to enhance access to affordable and resilient housing.
Kenya faces a significant housing deficit, needing approximately 250,000 new units annually but producing only 50,000. This results in a shortage of over two million homes. Despite these challenges, 88% of Kenyans remain optimistic about their housing prospects improving in the next three years.
The survey also revealed dissatisfaction among 44% of Kenyans with their current housing situation, higher than the global average of 35%. Only 72% felt secure in their homes, compared to 86% globally. Renters are particularly affected, with 48% reducing food expenses and 65% taking additional work to cover housing costs.
Housing costs are influencing major life decisions, with over 60% of respondents finding it hard to start a family due to housing expenses. For parents, 61% noted that housing costs limit their children’s opportunities, and 45% reported sacrificing personal aspirations.
The survey highlighted housing affordability’s impact on mental health, with 41% citing it as a major stress source, compared to a global average of 35%. Globally, 75% of respondents cut back on essential expenses, with 30% spending less on food or using emergency savings, and 13% delaying medical care due to housing costs.
Abi Riak, Habitat for Humanity Area Vice President for Africa, stressed that families should not have to choose between housing and other basic needs. Riak noted that investing in adequate housing is essential for health, economic opportunity, and sustainable urban development.
