President William Ruto addressed criticism of the 1.5 percent housing levy, urging formal‑sector workers to view the deduction as a contribution to the lives of less‑fortunate Kenyans.

Speaking on 8 October, he said those with formal employment should consider themselves lucky for having jobs, but that does not diminish the worth of other citizens.

Ruto explained that the levy is channeled to the Affordable Housing programme, which he said restores dignity for both the unemployed and financially stable Kenyans.

He claimed the programme has already created 1.1 million jobs in affordable‑housing projects, attributing the employment surge to contributions of the 1.5 percent levy.

Ruto linked the jobs to improved living conditions, noting that workers now can feed their families and move out of slums lacking basic services.

The remarks were made while presiding over the first Recognition of Prior Learning graduation ceremony, where 3,772 trainees received certification from the National Industrial Training Authority.

Graduates were recognised in fields such as building and construction, electrical work, textile, automotive technology, hospitality, ICT and cosmetology.

During the same event, Ruto announced the launch of the Fundi Locator App, a platform intended to help skilled workers connect with customers and expand employment opportunities.