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Date set for Kisumu residents to vacate estate ahead of upgrade

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Part of Kisumu City skyline as seen from the Kisumu Port in Lake Victoria. PHOTO | JEFF ANGOTE | NMG

Residents of Makasembo estate in Kisumu County have until February 28 to vacate their houses to pave way for the construction of Sh3.5billion modern housing by the Local Authorities Pension Fund (LAPFUND).

About 128 residents, whose tenancy has been terminated, received cheques of Sh96,000 each, as stipend to vacate the property.

LAPFUND plans to build 1,700 housing units on the 10 acres parcel within the next two years in line with the national government’s housing agenda.

Speaking during an event at Makasembo Estate, Kisumu yesterday LAPFUND chief executive David Koross said the ground breaking was scheduled for March 1.

“We have had several engagements with the residents. The first priority will be given to residents,” said Mr Koross.

LAPFUND plans to build one, two and three bedroomed houses with prices ranging from Sh1.6million to Sh2.5 million.

Makasembo Estate chairman Rashid Ondu said the construction of the modern housing will give Makasembo the lost glory.

“A lot has happened since September last year to date. We have accepted the terms and we wish developments to commence to give Makasembo the facelift it deserves,” said Mr Ondu.

Prior to the issuing of cheques, tension was high as a section of residents protested the plans to pull down a section of the houses.

The national government is seeking to cut housing deficit by building affordable houses.