The iconic Lumumba Estate in Kisumu, originally built by the colonial government in 1961, is undergoing a historic transformation after more than six decades of serving as a residential landmark.
Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, Dr Raymond Omollo, says the redevelopment marks a new chapter for the lakeside city as it aligns with Kenya’s broader urban transformation agenda.
“For 63 years, the original Lumumba Estate in Kisumu, built by the colonial government in 1961, the same year as Patrice Lumumba’s death, served as an iconic residential neighborhood,” Dr Omollo said. “Its aging structures, however, could no longer meet the demands of a growing city.”
The estate, long regarded as one of Kisumu’s most recognisable housing schemes, had struggled to keep pace with population growth and the city’s expanding infrastructure needs. With Kisumu’s elevation to city status and the government’s push for modern, decent housing, authorities determined that a comprehensive redevelopment was necessary.
“The Lumumba Affordable Housing Project answers that need,” the PS stated.
The new development will deliver 2,348 housing units spread across 15 modern 17-floor blocks. The units range from studio apartments to one-, two- and three-bedroom homes, catering to diverse income groups under Social, Affordable and Market-Rate schemes. The project is part of the government’s broader affordable housing initiative aimed at improving living standards while addressing urban housing deficits.
Beyond housing provision, the redevelopment is also driving economic activity in the region. According to Dr Omollo, the project has created direct employment for over 1,800 workers daily, including masons, steelworkers, plumbers and electricians.
“This is not just about buildings; it is about livelihoods, dignity and restoring pride in our urban spaces,” he said, noting that the project supports both job creation and skills development.
The State Department for Internal Security and National Administration has played a central role in implementing the project. Dr Omollo said the department’s involvement ensures that urban renewal efforts are accompanied by proper planning, safety oversight and effective neighborhood management.
By replacing aging colonial-era blocks with high-rise modern apartments, the Lumumba Affordable Housing Project symbolizes Kisumu’s shift toward contemporary urban living. For residents and stakeholders, it represents more than a facelift; it marks a significant step in reshaping the city’s skyline and redefining its future as a thriving urban center.
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