Kenya’s homelessness crisis has reached alarming levels, with thousands of individuals, including families and children, forced to live on the streets or in informal shelters. The situation is particularly dire in Nairobi, where poverty, displacement, and limited access to affordable housing have exacerbated the issue. According to the 2018 National Census of Street Families, 46,639 people are living on the streets in Kenya, with poverty being the primary root cause of homelessness.

Many of those affected, like Joyce Muthoni, a mother of three, have been living on the streets for years, facing numerous challenges, including hunger, cold nights, and police brutality. Muthoni, who ended up homeless after losing her job, emphasized the need for assistance, stating that if given the opportunity to secure employment, she and others like her could improve their living situation and provide for their children.

The World Bank estimates that 39.8% of Kenyans live below the national poverty line, further complicating the homelessness crisis. Informal settlement areas, such as Kibera, the largest urban slum in Africa, have become a reality for many, including 22-year-old Jane Caren Knight, who pays approximately $17 per month for a mud house with a leaking roof. Knight’s unstable job situation often puts her at risk of eviction, highlighting the precarious nature of life in these settlements.

To address the crisis, the Kenyan government has initiated the Affordable Housing Programme, aiming to construct over 100,000 homes. George Omondi, Director of Housing and Infrastructure at the State Department of Housing and Urban Development, emphasized the need for a concerted effort to provide social housing programs with subsidized costs, enabling individuals to access affordable housing. President William Ruto has also proposed the creation of a multilateral coalition to combat the global housing crisis, recognizing that the issue extends beyond Kenya’s borders.

With a housing deficit of 2 million homes, according to the World Bank, Kenya’s homelessness crisis requires immediate attention and sustainable solutions. The government’s efforts to provide affordable housing and address the root causes of poverty are crucial steps towards alleviating the suffering of those living on the streets. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains essential to prioritize the needs of the most vulnerable populations and work towards creating a more equitable and sustainable housing system.