Locals Protest Against Ruto's Affordable Housing Projects

Residents in Watamu, Lamu County, and Garissa County protested on December 20, 2025, against the government’s affordable housing projects, citing environmental damage, displacement, and threats to local communities.

In Watamu, the focus of residents’ concerns is the town’s only remaining public park. Locals argue that the park, known for its neem trees and as a meeting place for both residents and tourists, would be destroyed if the housing project proceeds. 

“It brings me great sorrow to see what is being planned right in front of a focal point where tourists first arrive, expecting a lovely beach holiday, only to be met by a block of ugly-looking flats. What a shame,” one tourist lamented.

Protesters also criticized the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) for failing to provide details on waste management and environmental protection measures for the project. 

Residents suggested alternative locations such as Jacaranda, Kanani, Uyombo, Dabaso, and Gede to reduce the environmental impact.

In Garissa, residents protested against Phase 2 of the affordable housing initiative, expressing fears of eviction from areas they have occupied for decades. 

Many carried leaves as a symbol of resistance, highlighting their claim that the government’s plans amount to public land grabbing. 

“Most of the people you see here have lived here for a long time. Even if there is an eviction, the government should issue a notice so that people can prepare themselves,” a woman told journalists.

Others warned, “We won’t allow them to come and evict us without considering what the law says.”

The affordable housing programme was designed to benefit low- to middle-income earners, including residents of informal settlements, Jua Kali workers, youth, and first-time homeowners. 

The initiative prioritizes housing options across income levels, creates employment in the construction sector, supports artisans and suppliers, and waives upfront deposits for the lowest earners. Kenyans living abroad are also allowed to participate.

Despite these intentions, the protests highlight the challenges of balancing development with community needs and environmental conservation. 

In Watamu, locals fear that the destruction of the park could harm the town’s tourism industry, a key economic driver. 

In Garissa, long-term residents are worried about losing their homes without adequate compensation or alternative arrangements.

The demonstrations reflect broader concerns over urban development and the government’s approach to managing public spaces. 

Residents are calling for more inclusive planning that respects existing communities and the environment while pursuing housing expansion.

Authorities have yet to respond to the protests publicly, but the events underline the need for dialogue between government agencies, local communities, and environmental bodies to ensure that development projects are sustainable and socially responsible.