How Thika’s Kings Orchid affordable housing is creating jobs, building communities

Project progress photos of Thika Orchids Affordable Housing project

The Kings Orchid Thika Affordable Housing Project in Kiambu county is transforming urban living, creating jobs and boosting local commerce as it nears completion.

The development, which is now 72 per cent complete, is being undertaken by Kings Developer Limited at a cost of Sh3.07 billion. Work started in January 2024 under a 36-month contract.

Implemented by the State Department for Housing and Urban Development under the Ministry of Lands, Public Works, Housing and Urban Development, the project is set to deliver 975 modern housing units on a 2.61-hectare site along Kenyatta Highway in Thika Municipality.

It is part of the government’s broader Affordable Housing Programme, aimed at bridging the country’s housing deficit.

“The Kings Orchid project provides diverse housing options for various income levels and family sizes while fostering social diversity,” a senior official said in a brief presented to the President.

The estate will feature a mix of studio, one bedroom, two bedroom and three bedroom units, alongside essential infrastructure such as internal roads, sewer and water reticulation and dedicated parking.

Planned amenities include a community centre, kindergarten, commercial centre, social hall and clinic. Officials say the development will deliver far reaching socioeconomic benefits for Thika and surrounding communities.

“The project will create employment opportunities for engineers, architects, masons, electricians and other workers during construction,” the official said.

“Once completed, it will provide permanent jobs in property management, security, maintenance and retail services.”

A focus on involving local artisans and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) is expected to spur broader income opportunities.

“We will work closely with Jua Kali clusters to prefabricate steel doors, windows, railings and other fittings,” the official said.

Additionally, Jua Kali and MSMEs will also do paint works and landscaping on site, enabling small businesses to benefit directly.

The housing scheme is also expected to spur property value growth and attract further investment in transport, education and healthcare services.

Beyond economic gains, the project promises social transformation. Modern housing units, access to clean water, proper sanitation and waste management are expected to improve living standards and public health for residents.

The inclusion of a kindergarten is also meant to expand educational access for children living within the estate, helping families and easing demand on nearby schools.

“The project is designed to accommodate families from different income levels, promoting social integration and reducing segregation,” the presidential brief said.

Urban infrastructure improvements such as upgraded roads, drainage systems and enhanced public transport access will further improve mobility and connectivity.

Security enhancements, including structured neighbourhood layouts, street lighting and surveillance systems, are expected to lower crime rates compared with informal settlements.

The ministry says the Kings Orchid housing project not only uplifts livelihoods but could also serve as a model for future affordable housing developments across the country.