Kenyatta University has condemned a viral online memo that falsely claimed to propose a policy encouraging student couples to co-habit in order to address accommodation shortages. The institution has denied that the letter was issued by its officials and said it originated from artificial intelligence.

The university released the clarification on Monday, September 28, as the memo doing the rounds on social media raised questions whether the institution had adopted a new housing policy. “Kenyatta University strictly prohibits the creation or dissemination of false, misleading, fabricated, or unauthorized information. The memo currently circulating is AI-generated and is NOT an official Kenyatta University communication,” the institution warned.

It further confirmed that the document was neither issued nor authorized by its management and that it had not undergone the approval process of the institution.

“It has not been issued or authorized by the University and does not reflect the University’s rules, regulations, policies, procedures, or official position with respect to the sharing of information,” the warning reads.

The controversial note, which was dated July 27, 2026, blamed the rising numbers of students for the housing problem, as well as the pressure on houses in and around the University, including Kahawa, Ruiru and Githurai. It proposed that couples share houses to free up more accommodation space, as well as reduce competition for rental places and costs. The bizarre claim sparked confusion and disbelief online, as many found it hard to believe the farce that was purported to be a serious policy addressing a long-standing issue.

However, with the clarification, students, staff and the public at large have been reminded not to rely on, reproduce or disseminate the communication as it does not originate from the University.

“For accurate and authorized information, always verify communications through Kenyatta University’s official communication channels,” it said.

The clarification comes after reports that students face a huge challenge when applying for services at Kenyatta University, as there are no guaranteed hostel facilities. Thus, learners who do not get allocated a hostel room upon admission are required to look for alternative housing options.

Besides, the off-campus housing program caters to those who fail to secure university hostels. In addition, the existing hostel policies at Kenyatta University prohibit sharing of rooms and overnight stay by visitors. It also imposes penalties on those found to be in violation of the regulation. Therefore, the memo does not reflect the housing policy at the University. The institution has warned that it will take action against anyone who shares or disseminates the fabricated communication as an official Kenyatta University document.