KDF Personnel Get Affordable Home Ownership Boost Through New Mortgage Deal

By Maurice Momanyi

More than 50,000 Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) personnel are set to benefit from an expanded home ownership programme following a new partnership between the government and KCB Group under the Affordable Housing Programme.

The agreement allows eligible military personnel to access mortgages at a subsidised interest rate of four percent through the Civil Servants Housing Mortgage Scheme, making it easier for them to purchase homes and invest in property.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, Principal Secretary for Housing and Urban Development Charles Hinga said the initiative recognises the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces and seeks to improve their welfare through affordable home ownership.

Hinga noted that the Civil Servants Housing Mortgage Scheme, which previously benefited mainly senior officers, has now been expanded to include eligible KDF personnel across different ranks.

Under the programme, beneficiaries will be able to purchase completed houses, acquire residential land, construct homes, complete ongoing building projects, combine land purchase with construction, release equity from existing properties, or transfer mortgages from other financial institutions. Muslim officers will also have access to Shariah-compliant financing through KCB’s Sahl banking products.

Defence Principal Secretary Dr. Patrick Mariru described the partnership as a significant step in supporting military personnel, saying access to decent housing is a constitutional right and an important aspect of improving the welfare of those who serve the country.

KCB Bank Kenya Managing Director Annastacia Kimtai said bringing more than 50,000 active KDF personnel into the mortgage scheme marks a major milestone in expanding affordable housing finance to one of Kenya’s largest public sector workforces.

Chief of the Defence Forces General Charles Kahariri welcomed the initiative, saying it provides military personnel with a practical opportunity to own homes beyond official service accommodation. He added that improved access to affordable mortgages will strengthen the welfare of officers and their families while giving them greater financial security.

The partnership is expected to support the government’s Affordable Housing Programme by increasing home ownership among security officers while enhancing their long-term financial well-being.