Joshua Askew is a journalist based in London, United Kingdom.

Southern Housing tenants in damp and mould 'hell'

12 Oct 2023  |  Yahoo Entertainment  |  English  |  Housing Issues

Residents of Southern Housing in Sussex have reported severe damp and mould issues in their homes, leading to significant health problems. Despite Southern Housing's claims of taking the issue seriously and investing in solutions, tenants like Victoria Beeching and Anna Dewey have faced persistent problems, with inadequate repairs and communication. The situation has led to legal actions and health risks, with the NHS calling for urgent repairs. Southern Housing has apologized and promised further treatments, but tenants remain frustrated and concerned about their living conditions.

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Social Issues Housing Issues Health Problems

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Alexis Boentes is a journalist based in Miami, United States of America. He has worked as a Video Journalist for various media, such as international broadcaster DW en Español, in Germany.

Residents of Hialeah have 33 nights without power for having recreational vehicles on their property

01 Nov 2023  |  Telemundo Miami (51)  |  Spanish  |  Housing Issues

In Hialeah, residents Elisa and her husband have been without power for 33 nights after illegally connecting recreational vehicles to their property's water and sewer network and renting them out. The city council is debating the legality of such vehicles, with some supporting their use due to a lack of affordable housing, while others, including Mayor Esteban Bovo, oppose it. Despite removing the vehicles, the couple remains without electricity, drawing criticism of the local government's handling of the situation.

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Housing Issues Local Governance

Interpretive

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Right

Political View

Gabriele Di Donfrancesco is a freelance journalist and fixer based in Rome, Italy, focused on investigations and stories on environmental crimes, housing, religion, politics, and social justice.

He has covered Italian affairs for US and UK news outlets, including the Daily Dot, Jacobin, Euronews,...

Nightmare Superbonus at Tufello

26 Nov 2024  |  RomaToday  |  Italian  |  Housing Issues

In the Tufello district of Rome, two condominium buildings have been under scaffolding for two years due to delays in renovation work initially scheduled to conclude by October 2023. Residents face significant inconveniences, including blocked windows and shutters, and issues like mold and leaks due to construction pauses.

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Housing Issues Construction Delays

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Journalist with experience in international affairs, Spanish politics, Catalan politics, and local affairs. Working for Euronews as journalist and Assignment Editor. Collaborating with Ràdio Capital de l'Empordà in the current affairs show. Reporting, interviewing, presenting radio bulletins, and ...

Barcelona is 'a paradise,' but newcomers affected by housing and safety issues

05 Oct 2024  |  www.catalannews.com  |  English  |  Housing Issues

Barcelona, often seen as a paradise by newcomers, faces challenges related to housing and safety. Many expatriates and residents express concerns over rising housing costs and safety issues, with some experiencing theft. Despite these challenges, the city remains attractive due to its vibrant culture and opportunities. The influx of tourists and foreign nationals is seen as a factor in the housing crisis, while safety concerns are highlighted by both locals and newcomers. The city continues to draw people from around the world, who find both challenges and unique experiences in settling there.

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Housing Issues Safety Concerns Tourism Impact

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Farid Farid is a journalist based in Cairo, Cairo Governorate, Egypt.

Migrants and refugees feel they are copping the brunt of Australia's housing affordability crisis

10 Oct 2023  |  Mail Online  |  English  |  Housing Affordability

Migrants and refugees in Australia are facing significant challenges in securing affordable housing, with many feeling unfairly blamed for the country's housing affordability crisis. A survey by Settlement Services International found that 43% of migrants and refugees experienced difficulty in finding affordable housing in the past year, and 26% were forced to leave a property due to rising costs. Personal stories, such as that of Ethiopian refugee Ariet Oko Agwa, highlight the severe impact of the housing crisis on vulnerable communities. Experts call for regulation of the private rental market to address these issues.

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Social Issues Housing Affordability Migrants and Refugees

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Sabrina Fearon-Melville is an arts and culture journalist based in London, United Kingdom.

She completed an undergraduate degree in International Relations at Coventry University. Her final dissertation was in Anti-Human Trafficking Policies across the UK and the Caribbean as she is passionate ...

Daniel Kaluuya directs Kano in The Kitchen: 'There's been a lot of growth'

12 Oct 2023  |  BBC  |  English  |  Social Issues

Daniel Kaluuya makes his directorial debut with 'The Kitchen,' a drama set in an alternative London facing stark social divisions and housing crises. Co-directed with Kibwe Tavares, the film stars Kane 'Kano' Robinson and newcomer Jedaiah Bannerman, depicting a community's struggle and resilience amidst a bleak urban landscape. The narrative, inspired by a real-life heist, highlights the loss of social housing and the impact of policies like the bedroom tax. The film balances moments of joy and community spirit with the harsh realities of displacement and social inequality, featuring performances that emphasize depth and possibility.

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Housing Crisis Social Issues Film

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Left

Political View

John Fenoglio is a broadcast journalist based in Southern California (Los Angeles) with 8+ years of reporting experience. His work has taken him all over the greater Southwest and Northwest regions of the US. Currently, he is a freelance political reporter for KTLA in Los Angeles. 
He has been ...

Airbnb guest won’t leave after staying at rental for over a year without paying, homeowner says

09 Oct 2023  |  wgntv.com  |  English  |  Housing Issues

Sascha Jovanovic, a homeowner in Brentwood, California, is facing a legal dispute with Elizabeth Hirschhorn, a former Airbnb tenant who has overstayed her booking since April 2022 without paying rent. Hirschhorn, who has a history of similar behavior, is demanding a $100,000 relocation fee, citing unpermitted construction and lack of occupancy approval as reasons for not paying rent. Jovanovic disputes these claims and is attempting to evict her. Both parties have filed lawsuits against each other. Jovanovic advises Airbnb owners to limit rentals to under 30 days and conduct background checks to avoid similar situations.

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Housing Issues Legal Dispute

I am a journalist based in Madrid. I have worked for seven years in the Diagonal and El Salto Diario newspapers, of which I am one of the founders. I am specialized in information on human rights violations and company monitoring.

Caixabank requests three years in prison for eight PAH Guadalajara activists for a sit-in

30 Nov 2023  |  www.elsaltodiario.com  |  Spanish  |  Legal Issues

Caixabank is seeking three years and two months of prison time for eight PAH Guadalajara activists involved in a 2017 sit-in at a bank office, demanding the fulfillment of a housing promise. The activists face charges of coercion, resistance, and public disorder, despite claims of passive resistance and procedural irregularities. Amnesty International plans to observe the trial, highlighting concerns over the criminalization of peaceful protests. The case underscores ongoing tensions around housing rights and legal responses to civil disobedience in Spain.

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Housing Legal Issues Protests

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Left

Political View

Alan Greenblatt is a journalist based in St. Louis, United States of America.

Omaha Public Housing Residents Face Higher Risk of Eviction

19 Dec 2023  |  www.governing.com  |  English  |  Housing

Omaha public housing residents, represented by the Omaha Housing Authority (OHA), are experiencing an increased risk of eviction, with over 400 filings this year, primarily over unpaid rent. The OHA, bound by financial constraints and federal regulations, insists on treating all tenants equally, leading to evictions even for small debts. Legal fees imposed by OHA often exacerbate tenants' financial burdens. Advocates criticize the OHA's approach, arguing it conflicts with its mission to support vulnerable renters and suggesting alternatives like pre-court mediation and payment plans. The rise in evictions, particularly after the drying up of federal pandemic aid, is feared to lead to a surge in homelessness, with a significant number of evicted tenants ending up in shelters.

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Social Issues Housing Public Policy

Freelance journalist and content writer covering culture and climate. 

I currently work across digital and print for Reader's Digest, including editing and uploading articles to the website's CMS, implementing SEO best practices, writing original articles, and proofreading pieces for the print ...

Tenant calls out exploitative landlord over outlandish water bill for rental property

08 Oct 2023  |  www.thecooldown.com  |  English  |  Housing

A Redditor is facing a significant increase in their water bill due to an automatic sprinkler system mandated by their landlord, with costs nearly tripling to almost $1,000. The lease requires the tenant to maintain the lawn, which includes the sprinkler costs. Despite flooding issues, the landlord insists on running the sprinklers three times a week. Water bills in the U.S. have risen 43.2% since 2012, partly due to aging infrastructure investments. Drought conditions have led to water use restrictions in places like Austin, Texas, and Utah is incentivizing lawn replacement with water-wise plants. Redditors advise caution in reducing sprinkler use to avoid liability for lawn damage.

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Legal Issues Housing Personal Finance

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Emma James is a broadcast journalist based in Paris, France. She’s worked for the BBC, ITV and France 24 and has more than 20 years of experience in broadcasting.

My gran, 91, who suffers from cancer & dementia has been stuck in a leaking, mouldy council flat for MONTHS

01 Oct 2023  |  The Sun  |  English  |  Housing Issues

Winne Wilson, a 91-year-old woman suffering from cancer and dementia, has been living in a leaking, mouldy council flat in Fulham, West London, due to council blunders. Her daughter, Sue Roberts, who is her full-time carer, has criticized Hammersmith and Fulham Council for failing to repair multiple leaks and other issues in their temporary accommodation. Despite promises from the council, no repairs have been made, leaving the family in dire conditions. The council has apologized and pledged to invest £600 million in repairing and refurbishing its housing stock over the next 12 years.

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Housing Issues Health Local Government

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I am a journalist, currently working as a reporter for Glasgow Live. Please send any stories you may have to ******.

I have had a varied background that demonstrates my versatility and skill in multiple spheres of the industry. My writing credits include writing freelance for a varied number of ...

Airbnb ban for home on Edinburgh’s most picturesque street

01 Oct 2023  |  www.thetimes.com  |  English  |  Housing

The City of Edinburgh Council's decision to reject Spence's application for retrospective planning permission to use his property as a short-term let has been upheld by the Scottish Government. The decision was influenced by numerous objections from local residents who feared the negative impact on their community. Despite arguments that the short-term let would bring economic benefits, officials concluded it would detrimentally affect the living conditions of nearby residents. Another property owner, Robert Murray, was also ordered to stop taking Airbnb bookings after failing to comply with a previous ruling.

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Community Issues Housing Local Government

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Center-Left

Political View

I am a freelance journalist based in London, specialising in foreign reportage. I have reported from Bangladesh, Northern Ireland, Morocco, Kosovo, and elsewhere. I have worked with the Financial Times, the Observer, Haaretz, the New York Times, and UNHCR, Standpoint Magazine as well as others. I ...

Village left 'stinking to high hell' by raw sewage leaks 'every two to three months' - as locals say they're living in a 'Third World Country' and warn plans for 298 new build will bring 'disaster'

15 Oct 2023  |  Mail Online  |  English  |  Infrastructure Issues

Residents of Teynham, Kent, are facing frequent raw sewage leaks, leading to significant dissatisfaction and health concerns. The village's infrastructure is reportedly unable to cope with the current demand, and plans to build 298 new homes have exacerbated fears of worsening conditions. Southern Water is criticized for its handling of the sewage system, while Chartway, the developer, is under scrutiny for proceeding with the housing project. Local officials and residents express strong opposition, citing inadequate facilities and potential disaster if the development continues without addressing the existing infrastructure issues.

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Housing Development Infrastructure Issues Environmental Concerns

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Alyssa Moxley is a writer and audio producer based in Athens, Greece. She is available for investigative reports, detailed cultural analysis, and interviews for print and radio. She is also available for audio recording (for radio or video) needs with high quality equipment. She has expertise in ...

What Happens in Vegas Could Decide the Election

21 Oct 2024  |  www.nytimes.com  |  English  |  Housing Crisis

In Nevada, a critical swing state, the housing crisis is a pivotal issue influencing the upcoming presidential election. The state's economic challenges, exacerbated by the pandemic, have led to increased housing costs, affecting many residents' financial stability. This has resulted in a growing cynicism among voters, particularly those without a college degree and from minority communities, who feel disillusioned with the Democratic Party's promises. The article highlights three voter groups: progressives considering third-party candidates, former Obama supporters leaning towards Trump, and those opting not to vote. This sentiment could significantly impact the election outcome, potentially favoring Donald Trump. The broader national context shows similar economic pressures in other swing states, underscoring the importance of economic issues in the election.

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Economic Issues Housing Crisis US Presidential Election

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Jeffrey Moyo is a journalist based in Harare, Zimbabwe.

Homeless Families Now a Growing Issue in Zimbabwe

04 Jan 2024  |  Inter Press Service  |  English  |  Economic Issues

The article discusses the growing issue of homelessness in Zimbabwe, highlighting the struggles of individuals like 69-year-old Gladys Mugabe and her disabled son, who live in Harare Gardens. Zimbabwe's economic challenges, including hyperinflation and a housing shortage estimated at 1.25 million units, have exacerbated the problem. The International Monetary Fund noted a hyperinflation rate of 172% in July last year. ISS Africa reports a high poverty rate, with projections that millions will remain in extreme poverty. Local residents and vendors express concerns about safety and hygiene due to the homeless population. The government's national housing waiting list is long, and many, like 21-year-old orphan David Paina, are not included. Authorities, including Minister July Moyo, often avoid addressing the issue. Local councilors and human rights activists acknowledge the crisis, with some homeless being ex-convicts unable to reintegrate into society. The article underscores the lack of official statistics and the government's inadequate response to the homelessness crisis in Zimbabwe.

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Housing Crisis Economic Issues Homelessness Poverty

Kimberly Mutandiro is a journalist based in Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa.

Tenants say they’ve been abandoned in Benoni’s crumbling apartheid-era municipal flats

02 Feb 2024  |  groundup.org.za  |  English  |  Housing Issues

Tenants of apartheid-era municipal flats in Actonville, Benoni, claim they have been abandoned by the City of Ekurhuleni. They face issues such as broken taps and toilets, rubbish accumulation, and theft. Despite rent increases in 2023, the flats remain in disrepair. Tenants, including pensioners and the unemployed, struggle to afford rent and are in arrears. They seek maintenance, lower rents, and title deeds. The municipality asserts it maintains the flats and will adjust rents based on income proof. Plans to provide title deeds are mentioned, pending administrative processes.

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Housing Issues Municipal Neglect Apartheid Era Buildings

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A journalist based in Dublin, Ireland, with strong storytelling skills. Interested in social issues, human rights and humanitarian issues. Possesses experience in researching, writing and creating content while remaining informative and interesting.

Poor housing ‘fuels need for NCT-style system for rental properties’

31 Oct 2023  |  www.independent.ie  |  English  |  Housing

A report by the national housing charity Threshold highlights an increase in tenant queries about poor housing conditions, such as mould and broken heating systems. The charity proposes an NCT-style system to ensure rental property standards are met, citing legal requirements for landlords to maintain properties in a liveable condition. Threshold's CEO, John-Mark McCafferty, calls for an overhaul of local authority inspections to address inconsistencies and follow-up issues. The report also notes that over 900 households were helped to stay in their homes or find new housing, and 5,318 new households were at risk of losing their homes, with tenancy terminations being a significant challenge.

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Social Issues Housing

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Siôn Pennar is a freelance journalist based in Poznań, Poland.

Formerly a Senior Reporter with BBC News based in Wrexham, Wales, he has years of experience in broadcasting for television and radio, as well as writing for online outlets.

Available for hire in Poland and neighbouring countries. ...

Housing development should be for everyone, not just the wealthy, says local councillor

05 Oct 2023  |  BBC  |  Welsh  |  Housing Development

A housing development in Llandyrnog, Denbighshire, is under debate, with local councillor Gwilym Evans advocating for homes that cater to the entire community, not just the wealthy. The project, proposed by Jones Bros, includes 40 homes, mostly pairs or single units with three or four bedrooms. Concerns have been raised about the affordability and suitability of the homes for young people and the community. The development is currently in the consultation phase, with some locals, like butcher Daniel Jones, supporting the need for more housing to boost local businesses and services. The planning company Caulmert, representing the developers, claims the project will contribute positively to sustainable development in the area, with 10% of the homes designated as affordable housing.

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Community Issues Housing Development

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Diana Ramos is a journalist based in Quito, Ecuador.
I love photography, researching and writing texts. I specialize in issues related to migration and refugees, as well as economy, politics, cooking and tourism, I also write about Cuba.

The Housing Fuse

12 Oct 2023  |  www.jornaldenegocios.pt  |  Portuguese  |  Housing Crisis

Reflecting on the events of March 12, 2011, when a generation protested against precariousness, labor instability, and low wages, the article highlights that many of these issues have worsened over the past twelve years. Despite the absence of an external financial rescue, the current economic and social problems in Portugal are more concerning and risk igniting social unrest.

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Economic Issues Housing Crisis Social Unrest

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Center-Left

Political View

An award-winning multimedia correspondent who has reported from North America, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and his native Britain for more than a decade. Strong editorial judgment and leadership skills with the ability to grasp and distill complex issues with ease and lead digital and broadcast ...

California grieving: Two thirds of Golden State residents say its economy is tanking, with low wages and high rents driving millions to consider leaving

09 Nov 2023  |  Daily Mail  |  English  |  Economic Issues

A report from the Public Policy Institute of California indicates that a significant portion of Californians are dissatisfied with the state's economy, citing low wages and high living costs as major concerns. The survey reveals that many residents are considering relocation, following the trend of celebrities and others who have already moved out of the state. The high cost of living, including rent and groceries, is forcing some to cut back on meals and delay medical care. The state's population is declining due to these economic pressures, with many seeking more affordable living in states like Arizona and Texas.

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Housing Crisis Economic Issues Migration

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Venâncio Rodrigues has been a VOA correspondent journalist since 1996. He has covered major political and military events. He did several reports during the civil war in Angola, until 2002. He participated in several workshops and professional training in Angola and the United States of America

New Luanda Airport is a Sadness for Many Who Lost Their Homes

08 Nov 2023  |  Voice of America  |  Portuguese  |  Housing Issues

The inauguration of the new Dr. Agostinho Neto International Airport in Luanda brings sorrow to hundreds of Angolans who lost their homes in 2022 due to demolitions around the airport. Despite promises from the government and a presidential decree authorizing the construction of 1,500 social housing units, affected citizens, represented by Domingos José Cazombo and supported by the NGO S.O.S. Habitat, claim they have been abandoned and are without information on the housing developments. The government of Luanda had previously justified the demolitions as necessary for the airport's certification.

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Housing Issues Infrastructure Development

Marian Rosado is a journalist based in Cáceres‎, Spain.

Catalonia, Andalusia and Cantabria, the communities most concerned about 'okupación'

19 Sept 2023  |  www.diariocordoba.com  |  Spanish  |  Social Issues

A survey by Línea Directa Aseguradora reveals that 24% of Spaniards believe there is a medium to high chance of their homes being 'okupied,' with 77% viewing it as a social problem. The study highlights that Catalonia, Andalusia, and Cantabria are the most alarmed regions. The survey attributes the issue to slow justice, political permissiveness, and high housing costs. Mar Garre from Línea Directa explains that while 'okupación' is not a specific criminal offense, it can be prosecuted under usurpation or trespassing laws. The article also notes a significant increase in 'okupación' cases from 2018 to 2022, with a notable percentage of people in the Balearic Islands having direct or indirect experience with the issue. The preferred solutions among Spaniards include harsher penalties and faster evictions.

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Housing Social Issues

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Center-Right

Political View

sanavver shafi is a freelance journalist based in Bhopal, India.

Kaliyasot and Bhadbhada basti encroachment demolition put on hold

22 Sept 2023  |  groundreport.in  |  English  |  Housing

The Bhopal Municipal Corporation's plans to demolish illegal encroachments within a 50-meter radius of the Full Tank Label between Nehru Nagar and the old Bhadbhada bridge have been halted by a High Court stay order. Residents of Bhadbhada colony, who have been living there for years and claim to have legal leases and have been paying taxes, obtained the stay order. They allege that the demolition is to benefit the view of the Taj Hotel. The demolition of encroachments on the Kaliyasot river has also been postponed due to Prime Minister Modi's upcoming visit to Bhopal. The Shivraj government's efforts to address illegal encroachments along the Kaliyasot River and Dam are part of an NGT order to create a no-construction zone and green belt around the river and dam.

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Legal Issues Housing Local Politics

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Freelance journalist and a humanitarian worker, I have graduated from the University of Salford with an MA International & Online Journalism and a BA Arabic & Politics. I have a broad expertise in international development, human rights, refugees and humanitarian reporting.

Nanterre: the National Housing Confederation held its 53rd Congress

12 Nov 2023  |  blogs.mediapart.fr  |  French  |  Housing

The 53rd Congress of the National Housing Confederation (CNL) in Nanterre focused on social housing issues, the impact of inflation, and the need for stronger community engagement. Key discussions included the crisis in construction, the reduction of social rent, and the withdrawal of state support. The congress emphasized the importance of local and federal structures, membership growth, and collective action to address current and future challenges. Proposals for regulated energy tariffs were also highlighted as part of broader measures to support household purchasing power. The event underscored the ongoing struggle for housing rights and the necessity of continuous advocacy.

Tags:

Social Issues Housing Inflation

Interpretive

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Left

Political View

Maina Waruru is a journalist based in Nairobi, Kenya.
With over 15 years experience I specialize in Science, Business and Development news and features writing. I have published widely including with the BBC, The Scientist magazine, University World News, Research Africa,Down to Earth magazine,...

Kenya’s ambitious affordable housing project faces major legal obstacles as opposition grows

01 Oct 2023  |  Equal Times  |  English  |  Affordable Housing

Kenya's ambitious affordable housing project, initiated under former President Uhuru Kenyatta, faces significant legal and financial challenges. The project aimed to build 500,000 housing units but has only achieved a fraction of this goal. The current administration under President William Ruto continues to push the project despite opposition to a mandatory housing levy. Legal rulings have halted the levy, citing constitutional violations. Critics argue the scheme disproportionately burdens workers already struggling with high living costs. Organizations like Habitat for Humanity advocate for a multi-faceted approach, including innovative financing and comprehensive urban planning, to address the housing crisis effectively.

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Economic Issues Affordable Housing Legal Challenges

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Center-Left

Political View