Members of Parliament have criticised contractors for sidelining local communities in government housing projects, demanding that 80% of construction work be allocated to local residents and communities.

In a statement posted on its Facebook account on Friday, August 29, 2025, Parliament announced that the Departmental Committee on Housing, Urban Planning & Public Works had urged the State Department for Housing & Urban Development, as well as contractors, to prioritise local employment.

“Members of the Departmental Committee on Housing, Urban Planning & Public works have urged the State Department for Housing & Urban Development and contractors to ensure that 80% of construction works in Housing Projects be given to local communities to empower them and provide employment,” the statement read.

Residents’ complaints

Parliament reported that the directive came in response to complaints from residents of Kipkelion East, who reported feelings of discrimination in job allocation.

“The directive followed complaints by Kipkelion East residents who alleged that they were only being engaged in non-skilled job opportunities and affirmation by the Chesinendet ESP market contractor that there were no skilled labourers in the area, a justification he gave legislators for outsourcing skilled labour,” the statement detailed.

Local participation

Parliament further noted that the committee issued specific directives to ensure local participation in ongoing construction work.

“Speaking at the Chesinendet (ESP) Market project, the Committee Members urged the contractor not to sideline locals in allocation of skilled and unskilled job opportunities at the sites,” Parliament stated.

In his submission, Committee Chairperson Johana Ng’eno outlined the committee’s expectations for local employment quotas.

“As a Committee, we shall push the State Department to ensure the remaining 60% of work is given to local residents and that not more than 20% of skilled jobs are given to outsiders,” Ng’eno said.

Land compensation issues

Additionally, Parliament reported that the committee addressed ongoing land compensation disputes that are affecting project implementation.

“On the land compensation stalemate, the Committee tasked Hon. Joseph Cherorot (Kipkelion East MP) to convene talks with the County Government of Kericho and NHC to resolve the matter and settle the affected families,” the statement read.