KDF Officers to Access Affordable Homes Under New 4% Mortgage Scheme

NAIROBI, Kenya, July 16, 2026 – More than 50,000 Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) personnel are set to benefit from affordable homeownership after the Government of Kenya signed a partnership agreement with KCB Group that will allow eligible servicemen and women to access subsidized mortgages at 4% interest under the Civil Servants Housing Mortgage Scheme.

The initiative expands access to the government's Affordable Housing Programme, enabling military personnel to purchase homes at significantly lower financing costs while improving their long-term financial security.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, Housing and Urban Development Principal Secretary Charles Hinga said the programme is intended to recognize the dedication and sacrifices made by members of the Kenya Defence Forces.

"We have unlocked homeownership for army personnel whose selfless service continues to make us proud. The Civil Servants Mortgage Scheme is no longer for senior officers only but for eligible army personnel," said Hinga.

Under the financing arrangement, eligible KDF personnel will be able to purchase completed homes, acquire residential plots, finance new home construction, complete ongoing housing projects, combine plot purchases with construction financing, access equity release facilities, and transfer existing mortgages from other financial institutions.

The programme also includes Shariah-compliant financing through KCB's Sahl banking solution for officers professing the Islamic faith.

Defence Principal Secretary Dr. Patrick Mariru described the partnership as a major step towards improving the welfare of Kenya's servicemen and women.

"Our servicemen make significant sacrifices while serving the nation. Provision of decent housing is a fundamental right enshrined in the Constitution of Kenya. Today, we celebrate them by opening a pathway to homeownership," he said.

KCB Bank Kenya Managing Director Annastacia Kimtai said bringing more than 50,000 active KDF personnel into the programme represents one of the largest expansions of affordable housing finance within Kenya's public sector.

"The onboarding of more than 50,000 active KDF personnel presents a significant milestone in broadening access to affordable housing finance," Kimtai said.

Chief of the Defence Forces General Charles Kahariri said the initiative would enhance the welfare of military personnel and their families while strengthening national service.

"This partnership gives our personnel a practical and affordable opportunity to own homes beyond service accommodation. By widening access to mortgage financing, we are strengthening the welfare of our officers and their families, giving them greater security and confidence as they plan for the future. When our people know that their families are secure, they can serve the nation with even greater focus and commitment," said General Kahariri.

The partnership is expected to accelerate homeownership among Kenya Defence Forces personnel while supporting the government's Affordable Housing Programme and improving the living standards of thousands of military families.