28. National Construction Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2025 (Senate Bill No. 15 of 2025)
The Bill strengthens the housing value chain by embedding sustainability, climate resilience, energy efficiency, and health standards into construction and maintenance. For affordable housing, it advances units that are cheaper to maintain, environmentally friendly, and durable, reducing long-term costs for both developers and occupants.
The Bill introduces a requirement for the installation of solar systems in designated zones with sufficient sunshine. For affordable housing, this lowers energy costs for households and promotes sustainability in community living. It also provides for climate-responsive construction standards. This guarantees affordable housing is built to withstand risks such as flooding, heat, and other climate-related stresses.
Under its fourth schedule, the Bill provides for new climate-responsive mechanisms. It lists mandatory considerations for construction activities, which shape both the construction and maintenance of affordable housing:
a) Climate Resilience – designs that withstand extreme weather, use of natural buffers.
b) Energy Efficiency – energy-saving technologies, renewable energy adoption.
c) Water Conservation – rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, efficient appliances.
d) Sustainable Materials – use of recycled, renewable, locally sourced materials; reduced construction waste.
e) Pollution Control – safe disposal of construction waste; reduced air, water, soil pollution.
f) Biodiversity Protection – preservation of natural habitats; integration of green roofs and walls.
g) Health & Safety – indoor air quality, natural lighting, non-toxic building materials
Since counties are responsible for housing and urban development, the Bill empowers them to enforce sustainable standards at the local level. This supports consistency in affordable housing projects across Kenya, ensuring uniform quality and compliance.
Last updated
Was this helpful?