The Performance Of Condominium Housing Program In Jimma Town, Ethiopia: A Case Study

This study was conducted in six condominium sites to assess the performace of condominium housing program in Jimma town, Ethiopia. 280 questinnaires were accidentally distributed among cono residents. Besides, two focus group discussions with 11 participants from two condo sites, and an interview with two officials from Jimma town Housing Agency were also conducted. Moreover, field observation in the condo sites was held. The study reveals that condominium housing is not affordable to the poor section of the town. Most of the houses are rented, and a significant number of houses are transferred to third parties as well. Above all, most of the houses are transferred to people who are not from Jimma town, to Jimma University and to rich people of the town, not to the intended beneficeries of the program. Furthermore, residents of the houses are suffering lack of infrastructure, and basic facilities. Thus, the government shall revise its policy regarding the financial capabilities of urban poor to repay the housing loans; strict verification and coordination among cities and towns to avoid multiple registration is needed. Above all, the demand for condo housing is higher. Thus, the government should invest aggressively, and allow & encourage entrepreneurs to participate in supplying (affordable) houses to the poor.