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The Developers Digest Q1 Issue

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TOPIC OF THIS ISSUE:

Adopting a Long-term

Perspective in the Real

Estate Sector

Q1 Issue 2023


WHO ARE KPDA

MEMBERS?

Property Development

Firms

Government Agencies

Contractors & Construction

Industry Suppliers

Lawyers, ICT, Accounting

& Tax Professionals

Project Managers, Planners,

Architects, Engineers,

Interior Designers

Estate Agents, Valuers,

Facilities & Property

Managers

Financial Institutions

based both in Kenya &

Globally

Institutional Investors

Investment Advisors,

Asset & Fund Managers

WHY JOIN KPDA?

(Advocacy)

Be at the forefront of

advocating for change and

ease of doing business in the

built environment sector.

(Advocacy)

Get to air issues affecting

yourselves and others to

a body that realizes real

change.

(Information)

Access to our

database with top level

management contacts.

(Connections)

One on one introduction

to companies you would

like to work with.

(Connections)

Access direct contacts to regulatory bodies

and government ministries, departments and

agencies in the built environment sector.

(Information)

Access to the latest news

and trends in the industry.

(Networking)

Meet and exchange contacts with

other members in networking

events.

(Networking)

Free members networking events.

(Discounts)

Get the privilege to negotiate

sponsorship rates as a paid-up member.

(Advocacy)

Join a like-minded family.


Focus on Policy

Q1 Issue 2023

08

Message from the Chairman 4

2023 KPDA Annual Conference Main

Sponsors Contributions 6

Have Your Say 12

Opinion 26

Gallery of Events 39

KPDA Directory of Members 41

23

Fatima Flats, Suite 4 B,

Marcus Garvey Road

Off Argwings Kodhek Road, Kilimani Area

P. O. Box 76154 - 00508, Nairobi, Kenya

Tel: +254 737 530 290

+254 725 286 689

Email: ceo@kpda.or.ke

Website: www.kpda.or.ke

KPDA secretariat

Ag. Chief Executive Officer

Vincent Mwango

Research and Advocacy Officer

Stephen Kigweru

Membership and Public Relations Officer

Yvonne Ndegwa

Finance and Administrative Support

Everlyne Mkaya

Research and Communication Support

Paul Anyango

TOPIC OF THIS ISSUE:

october - december 2019 ISSUE

The Year That Was!

KPDA BOARD MEMBERS

design and layout

Eric Ng’ang’a

c: +254 725 873601

e: ericstevo@gmail.com

www.nextvisuals.co.ke

Ken Luusa

Chairman

Ravi Kohli

Vice Chairman

Palkesh Shah

Immediate Past

Chairman

Hamish Govani

Board Director

Anne Muchiri

Board Director

Caroline Karugu

Board Director

Gikonyo Gitonga

Board Director

Caroline Kihara

Board Director

Alex Waiharo

Board Director

Zoravar Singh

Board Director

Michael Kaniu

Board Director

Shiv Arora

Board Director


4

Message from the Chairman

it is a timely and important topic for us all to

consider. As sector players, we are all too aware of

the challenges and uncertainties that come with our

industry. Economic cycles, changing regulations and

shifts in consumer demand can all have a significant

impact on our businesses.

The global pandemic has highlighted the

importance of resilience and adaptability, while

rapid technological change is transforming the way

we work and live. In addition to this, we are also

grappling with issues such as land scarcity, changing

consumer preferences and shifting regulatory

landscapes. At the same time, Kenya’s growing

middle class and expanding infrastructure offer

significant potential for the real estate sector.

Ken Luusa, KPDA Chairman

It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to the

latest edition of the Developers Digest. As always,

our aim is to keep you informed and up-to-date on

the latest trends and developments in the real estate

sector, both in Kenya and beyond.

As the Chairman of the Kenya Property Developers

Association, I would like to extend a warm welcome

to our new members. Your membership with us

is a testament of your commitment to the built

environment sector and we are thrilled to have you

join our community. With over 1000 professionals in

our exclusive network, you are now part of a dynamic

team of professionals that is dedicated to advancing

the property development industry in Kenya. We

look forward to collaborating with you, learning from

your experiences and sharing our knowledge to drive

innovation and growth in our sector.

To our esteemed existing members, I would like to

express my deepest gratitude for your unwavering

support to our Association. Your dedication and

commitment to our mission have been instrumental

in driving the growth and success of our Association.

Your contributions, whether through your active

participation in our events or your valuable insights,

have helped us in our efforts to advance the built

environment sector in Kenya. We are honored to have

you as part of our community and we look forward

to continuing to work with you to achieve our shared

goals.

This issue’s theme is “Adopting a Long-term

Perspective in the Real Estate Sector,” and I believe

However, amidst these challenges lie opportunities

for growth and innovation. By adopting a long-term

perspective, we can anticipate future trends and

develop strategies to stay ahead of the curve. This

means investing in sustainable practices, prioritizing

community engagement, and leveraging technology

to streamline our processes and create better

outcomes for our clients.

We take great pride in our accomplishments in the

Kenyan property sector and are happy to report on

our advocacy activities across the 1st Quarter:

1. Our commitment to this goal is exemplified by

our active participation in promoting institutional

real estate courtesy of our involvement at

the bell-ringing of the first ever REIT in Kenya

promoted by a pension fund- Laptrust Imara

I-Reit. This event was attended by esteemed

personalities, including the President of the

Republic of Kenya, H.E Dr. William Samoei Ruto

where KPDA was able to represent the private

property sector’s voice in Kenya, emphasizing the

Association’s dedication to fostering partnerships

between the public, private and capital sectors,

in pursuit of enhancing the property sector and

improving the lives of all Kenyans.

KPDA pledges support for REITS and we are

working closely with REITS Association of Kenya

(RAK) and Nairobi Stock Exchange (NSE) on a

capacity building program for developers and the

construction sector players to design and build

housing for REITS. The REITS tool-kit will provide

guidelines for:

Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector


5

Message from the Chairman

We are proud to play a key role in promoting

sustainable development and addressing

the housing needs of our society. We remain

dedicated to working in partnership with all

stakeholders to ensure the success of this

important initiative.

Ken Luusa at the Bell Ringing of the listing of the Laptrust

Imara I-REIT

• More efficient building designs to lower costs

• Documentation required for institutional offtakers

• Environmental Sustainability

• Efficient construction technologies

2. KPDA’s commitment to the Affordable Housing

Programme is stronger than ever as we take on

a crucial role in the establishment of the Kenya

National REITS. As a founding member of the

Kenya National REITS, a company established to

register all REITS licensed by the Capital Markets

Authority for the development of affordable

housing and infrastructure, we are proud to play

a key role in promoting sustainable development

and addressing the housing needs of our society.

KPDA will contribute to the development of

a credible and legitimate platform for REITS

investment.

The mandate of the Kenya National REITS includes:

• Accreditation to boost REITS credibility as an

investment grade

• To create opportunity for immediate investor

uptake

• To generate branding and legitimacy of REITS

• To lead awareness campaigns

• To be the central point of engagement with

the Regulators and Government

• To be the reference point with investors

• Accreditation of licensed service providers

• Lawyers, Property Managers, etc.

• Research and development

3. Through the KPDA Affordable Housing Taskforce,

we have established a close working relationship

with the State Department of Housing and

Urban Development to facilitate the provision

of affordable housing incentives for developers.

At present, we have more than 50 projects in

the pipeline that we are actively mobilizing to

obtain these incentives. Our partnership with

the department is geared towards promoting the

development of affordable housing in Kenya and

we remain committed to achieving this goal.

4. We have also been engaged with consultative

meetings with the Department of Land, Housing,

Physical Planning Municipal Administration, and

Urban Development Department through KEPSA,

to discuss collaboration with the county and ways

to enhance the built environment.

Our track record speaks for itself and we

remain dedicated to advancing our mission in

innovative and impactful ways through strategic

partnerships with industry stakeholders.

In this issue of our magazine, we will be exploring

some of the key issues that are shaping the real

estate industry in Kenya today and providing

insights into how we can adapt and thrive in this

dynamic environment. We will be featuring article

contributions from industry experts, case studies

of successful developments and articles on topics

such as sustainability, urban planning and digital

transformation.

I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to all of

the contributors, advertisers and supporters who

have made this issue possible and trust that it will

provide you with valuable insights and inspiration, as

we continue to work together to shape the future of

the real estate sector in Kenya.

Please enjoy this free magazine and share the same

with others. Thank you for your continued support

and best wishes in your endeavors.

Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector


6

2023 KPDA Annual Conference Main Sponsors Contributions

Riruta: Nairobi’s Real Estate

Hidden Gem

By Samuel Kariuki

Chief Executive Officer, Mi Vida Homes

The renown Precious Blood Secondary School,

the weatherman’s headquarters and a popular

nyama choma belt come top of mind when one

thinks of Riruta and the wider Dagoretti node of Nairobi

County.

Historically, Riruta and the wider Dagoretti area have

been highly preferred by Nairobi tenants owing to their

close proximity to the key commercial nodes of Kilimani,

Community, Upper Hill and the CBD. The area also

neighbors the upmarket Lavington and is well served

by public transport. Similar to other Nairobi suburbs,

Riruta has over the last few years metamorphosed into

a peri-urban neighborhood as seen by the sparsely

populated low-density units that previously dotted the

area now giving way to modern high-rise apartments.

Driving along Wanyee or Naivasha Roads, one cannot fail

to notice new towers above ten levels that have either

been recently completely or under construction.

Again, like other Nairobi areas, this rapid change has

been catalyzed by a cocktail of factors with rapid

urbanization and massive infrastructure projects being

the key ingredients. Upgrading of the 11-kilometer

Ngong Road from a single to a dual carriageway has

enhanced the area’s attractiveness by making it more

accessible. Ngong Road’s expansion has reduced the

time it takes to connect from Riruta to other nodes of

the city including the Central Business District. This

reduced travel time has ushered in a wave of property

developers.

Property developers have also been drawn to the

wider Riruta because of the area’s land affordability

relative to other suburbs. This attractive land value

entry point addresses one of the more important

concerns for investors in affordable and mid-market

housing in Nairobi. Riruta therefore provides attractive

opportunities for affordable housing development.

Owing to its historical location, Riruta area has

benefitted from a mix of social amenities including

many public schools, proximity to shopping malls, and

An image of the proposed KEZA Estate by Mi Vida

hospitals which not only increase convenience to the

area’s residents but are major considerations when

either developing housing units or buying into a project.

Riruta is also yet to see a proliferation of alternative

developments especially commercial offices which

have elbowed potential home buyers from the house

ownership ladder. Kilimani, Riverside, Westlands,

Upperhill are Nairobi suburbs that were previously

the reserve for family units but have now given way to

skyscrapers hosting commercial offices and hotels.

These are some of the reasons that informed Mi Vida

Homes decision to explore investing in affordable

housing in the area.

As with all areas that have seen increasing densification

in recent times, it is important that the newly elected

Nairobi County leadership keeps pace with requisite

public investment in infrastructure. Water and

sewerage infrastructure are a case in point. The county

has an opportunity to take a lead role in supporting

development of affordable housing for its residents on

that front, in addition to minimizing the costs, including

on time, in statutory compliance.

These challenges aside, Riruta area is well positioned

as a location for quality and has the potential to deliver

much needed affordable and quality homes.

Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector


Exploring innovations in timber building systems

Call for Participants

Are you a construction company in East Africa

looking for new ways to design and build

projects faster, more efficiently and more

sustainably? If so, Gatsby Africa would like to

hear from you!

We’re looking for East African developers, architects

and contractors to inform and learn from an

exciting new study assessing the potential use of

timber in construction.

Led by world-leading timber engineering experts,

the study seeks to identify where innovations in

timber building systems – such as flooring, walling

and roofing - could deliver value to developers,

architects and contractors, as well as the wider

forestry sector.

Why the focus on timber construction?

A high rate of urbanisation, combined with a rapidly

growing population, has pushed East Africa’s

residential sector into a large housing deficit.

While many innovations are being implemented

to address this deficit, most rely on steel and

concrete, overlooking less carbon-intensive

alternatives such as high-performance timber.

There is a huge opportunity in the affordable

housing market in the region. Nearly 45% of the

urban population live in informal settlements, with

East Africa’s total housing deficit sitting at over 7.5

million units. If the construction sector can identify

low-cost solutions using high-performance timber,

it could spark large market demand for the forestry

sector to respond to.

What to expect

Participating firms will be invited to join two halfday

industry workshops facilitated by Gatsby Africa.

The first of these workshops will be held in late June

2023. We will share early insights from the study,

working to understand how familiar participants

are with timber in construction and examine any

barriers to its use.

Upon the conclusion of the study, the participating

firms will be invited to a follow up workshop where

the insights and results will be shared and further

discussed.

Please note: The two half-day workshops will

be held in person in Nairobi, Kampala or Dar

es Salaam depending on regional interest. It is,

however, important that we gain insights from

stakeholders across the region. With that in

mind, Gatsby Africa will support attendees from

further afield with the provision of transport and

accommodation.

Opportunities once the study is complete

Following the workshop, assuming there is

a compelling business case, there may be

opportunities for committed participants to

receive further support from Gatsby Africa,

such as:

• An exposure visit to experience timber

innovations first hand

• Pilot projects that aim to demonstrate

practicable opportunities for the adoption of

timber in construction at scale.

Who can participate

We are looking for firms that are operating in

the mainstream, mid-low income and affordable

housing space with a portfolio of mid-large

projects.

Express your interest

Please register your interest by visiting

www.bit.ly/TimberConstructionEA or by scanning

the QR code.

Registration closes on

Wednesday 31st May 2023.

If you have any questions,

please email: anthonyngugi@

gatsbyafrica.org.uk


8

2023 KPDA Annual Conference Main Sponsors Contributions

How LG Multi V 5 is Helping

Hospitals, Apartments, Airports,

and Other Large-Scale Facilities

to Breathe Easy

As a hospital owner, Mary Muoki was

constantly on the lookout for new ways

to improve the quality of care provided

to patients. One of the challenges she faced was

ensuring that the hospital’s indoor air quality was at

its best to minimize the risk of airborne diseases.

Despite the hospital’s efforts to maintain the air

quality, Mary noticed that some patients were still

experiencing respiratory problems, and this was a

cause for concern.

In her search for a solution, she came across the LG

Multi V 5, an integrated air quality solution designed

for among other facilities high-rise buildings,

hospitals, and airports. Intrigued by its energy-saving

technologies, dual sensing control, and ultimate

inverter compressor, Mary decided to install the Multi

V 5 in the hospital. The results were impressive, as

the system improved indoor air quality to a fresh,

clean air circulating throughout the hospital building

significantly, reducing the risk of airborne diseases

and improving the overall health and well-being of

the patients.

Speaking on why she chose Multi V 5, Ms. Muoki

notes that, “The importance of indoor air quality

cannot be overemphasized, as poor indoor air

quality can have a significant impact on human

health, productivity, and overall quality of life. Some

health hazards include headaches, fatigue, allergies,

respiratory problems, and other illnesses which from

our view can be especially dangerous for vulnerable

populations, such as children, elderly individuals,

and those with pre-existing health conditions”.

Mary’s hospital case is not unique, it is the story

of many business owners across the country.

Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector


9

2023 KPDA Annual Conference Main Sponsors Contributions

For instance, in the city, high-rise buildings have

become a common sight. While these buildings offer

convenience and space-saving solutions, they also

come with their own set of challenges, particularly in

terms of air quality.

Additionally, in today’s world, air quality is a growing

concern. With the rise of pollution and climate

change, it is becoming increasingly important to

find ways to provide clean air in our businesses,

homes, and workplaces. Poor air quality can have a

significant impact on the health and productivity of

the occupants of these buildings.

The LG Multi V 5 is a highly efficient and intelligent

air conditioning system that combines energy-saving

technologies, dual sensing control, and the ultimate

inverter compressor for the best cooling and heating.

It is designed to provide fresh, clean air to occupants

of high-rise buildings and other large-scale facilities,

ensuring their health and well-being.

Saves Cost

One of the standout features of the Multi V 5 is

its energy-saving technology. This technology is

designed to reduce the system’s energy consumption

and, in turn, save costs. The system utilizes a heat

recovery system, which captures and reuses the heat

energy produced by the system. This means that the

energy used to cool the building can be recycled to

provide hot water or heating, reducing the building’s

overall energy consumption.

The Multi V 5 also utilizes LG’s innovative Dual

Sensing Control technology. This technology allows

the system to adjust the temperature and humidity

levels of the building based on the current weather

conditions. The system uses sensors to detect

the temperature and humidity levels outside the

building and then adjusts the indoor temperature

and humidity levels accordingly. This helps to create

a comfortable and healthy indoor environment for

the building’s occupants, regardless of the weather

conditions outside.

Another important feature of the Multi V 5 is its

ultimate inverter compressor. This compressor is

designed to provide efficient and precise cooling

and heating, ensuring maximum comfort for the

building’s occupants. It is highly reliable and can

operate in extreme temperatures, making it ideal for

use in high-rise buildings, hospitals, and airports.

Saves Energy

To save money, this system uses several energysaving

features to reduce energy consumption. For

example, the Multi V 5 uses a high-efficiency inverter

compressor, which allows it to adjust the speed of

the compressor to match the cooling or heating load.

This means that the system only uses the energy it

needs, which can result in significant energy savings.

Another energy-saving feature of the Multi V 5 is its

use of variable refrigerant flow (VRF) technology. This

technology allows the system to deliver the exact

amount of cooling or heating needed to each area of

the building, rather than cooling or heating the entire

building at once. This not only saves energy but also

provides greater comfort for those inside, as they can

control the temperature in their specific area.

Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector


10

2023 KPDA Annual Conference Main Sponsors Contributions

This results in lower energy consumption, reduced

noise levels, and longer system life.

Easy Installation

The LG Multi V 5 is also designed to be easy to install

and maintain. It features a modular design that

allows for easy installation and customization. The

system also includes several maintenance features,

such as self-diagnosis and automatic cleaning, which

help to ensure that it is always running at its best.

Besides, it is highly customizable, making it suitable

for a wide range of building types and sizes. It can be

configured to meet the specific needs of the building,

with options for vertical or horizontal installation,

multiple indoor unit combinations, and a variety of

control options.

Self-cleaning

The LG Multi V 5 also offers a range of advanced

features that make it a highly effective air quality

solution for large-scale facilities. The system has

a self-cleaning function that helps to maintain the

cleanliness of the air filters, reducing the risk of

bacterial growth and ensuring clean air is delivered

to the building’s occupants. Additionally, the system

is designed to provide quiet operation, ensuring

minimal disturbance to the occupants of the

building.

With the Multi V 5, building owners and occupants

can rest assured that they are breathing clean, fresh

air, and enjoying a comfortable and healthy indoor

environment. Its energy-saving technologies, dual

sensing control, and ultimate inverter compressor

make it a great choice for high-rise buildings,

hospitals, airports, and other large commercial

spaces. Besides, its advanced air filtration technology

and easy maintenance features, the LG Multi V 5 is a

smart investment for anyone who wants to ensure

that their indoor environment is comfortable and

healthy.

Like the patients in Mary and the patients in her

hospital, we all need to breathe fresh air easily.

This system also features advanced air filtration

technology that can remove a wide range of

pollutants and allergens from the air. This includes

dust, pollen, mold spores, and even bacteria and

viruses. The system also uses a plasma ionizer

to neutralize odors and other volatile organic

compounds (VOCs), ensuring that the air is fresh and

clean.

Reduced Noise Levels

The Multi V 5’s ultimate inverter compressor is

another key feature that sets it apart from other air

conditioning systems. This compressor is designed to

provide the highest level of efficiency and reliability.

It uses a variable-speed motor and an advanced

control algorithm to optimize its performance and

ensure that it is always running at peak efficiency.

Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector



12

Have Your Say

Real Estate is Not A Gamble!!

By Purity Kagendo Makau

Business Development & Marketing Manager, Daykio Plantations Ltd

In the recent times, we have witnessed many

investors both locally and in the diaspora

developing an appetite for investing in the real

estate. The perception is that there is quick money

and high return on investment in the real estate

compared to other investment avenues. The interest

is also driven by the 500,000 housing units deficit in

Kenya annually where we have seen the Government

trying to do its best to bridge the gap through

affordable housing and involvement by private

developers.

However, lucrative as the industry may appear,

we have seen giants, medium, Corporates and

individuals in the real estate plunge into losses due

to negligence and the reasons as hereunder: -

1 Lack of due diligence on the property

A serious investor should be able to conduct

due diligence on the property using the right

and ethical legal practitioners who will conduct

search on property ownership. This process

should guide the investor on whether the

property is under any encumbrances or in

succession process.

2 Poor planning

Some of the mistakes investors make is buying

a property without having in mind a clear plan

on what they really want to do with it. Some

either buy just because they have the money

or the property is available without having the

consideration like;

• why am I buying this property?

• Is it to develop serviced apartments to Let or

residential units for sale?

• Who am I buying for and what are the needs

of this customer?

When all these questions are answered one

should therefore be able to structure the

concept plan based on the customer needs and

preferences.

3 Delivery on promises

What promises do we make to our customers

when wooing them to buy our projects? We

have witnessed many Kenyans locally and in the

diaspora lose money through off plan & Master

planned concepts just because they were sold

dreams that were not realised. Consequently,

taking the developer to endless legal battles with

the investors and leading to indefinite closure of

such developments. My caution to investors is to

make realistic promises and Do not overpromise.

4 Title Deed processing

The Title Deed is a legal document of property

ownership and a very critical document for any

Real estate investor. We have two types of Title

Deeds where one is leasehold and the other free

hold. A free hold Title Deed is not limited to

tenure, while leasehold is limited to expiry period

of 99 years. My advise to investors is to be clear

of the Title Deed tenure in order to mitigate the

chances of buying a property whose tenure is

almost expiring.

5 Pricing of the properties

Pricing of the property is dependent on the Cost

of the property, Location, value addition, target

customers and the desired project lifespan. We

have observed a situation where some of the

developers price their properties with neither

of the above factors hence making the property

expensive for the buyers to afford, rendering the

project inactive and consequently the loss of

desired revenue

6 Collaboration with the Real Estate partners.

Collaboration with the real estate partners like

Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector


13

Have Your Say

Financiers, Surveyors, Contractors, Lawyers,

Architects and County Government is the success

of any real estate developer. These partners

make the process easier and mitigate loopholes

leading to conman ship of the properties from

the sellers and saving the buyers the risk of losing

their money.

Daykio Plantations Ltd having been in the

Industry for now 39 years has mastered the game

and is confident to confirm that Real estate

is NOT a gamble but a clear process through

partnerships by making real estate affordable

and a reality for all Kenyans.

About the Author:

Purity Kagendo Makau is a Business Development

& Marketing Manager at Daykio Plantations Ltd.Her

9-year experience in Daykio has given her a better

understanding on pros & cons of the real estate

industry.

0709 058 012 sales@m-payaenergy.co.ke www.m-payaenergy.co.ke

Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector


14

Have Your Say

A Long-Term Perspective

on the Real Estate Sector –

Beyond Buildings

By Pumi Lukhele

Head of Developments and Construction EA, Gateway Real Estate Africa (GREA)

As an investor in the real estate sector, having

a clear understanding of your investment

purpose will determine how you measure

success. This decision must be supported by solid

knowledge of property fundamentals and the ability

to remain invested through real estate cycles.

Real estate investment is generally regarded as a

long-term commitment and the immovable nature

of the asset class resulted in location and financial

returns traditionally being the most important factors

when deciding to invest.

The pandemic has, however, accelerated

the importance of environmental and social

sustainability for capital markets, with “real estate

impact investment” increasingly becoming a primary

investment consideration, driven by regulations,

funder and tenant requirements.

Real estate investors are nowadays looking at factors

beyond buildings when considering investment,

and it is those landlords and developers who have

successfully aligned the social and environmental

impact of their portfolios to investment returns that

attract greater pools of capital at lower costs.

Similarly, the demand for organizations in the built

environment to reduce their carbon footprint has

increased to such an extent that it is fast becoming

a business imperative. This responsibility is also

not only limited to the construction process but

permeates the operational elements of real estate

where environmental impact is measured through

the lifespan of the building.

While environmental sustainability has already

gained momentum in the sector, investors are now

becoming more intentional about implementing

social impact through real estate. This is done

through the prioritization of people and communities

by ensuring developments are socially inclusive and

beneficial for the broader community, making any

social impact long-term.

As the largest London-listed real estate investor in

Africa, Grit Real Estate Income Group (“Grit”) and its

development subsidiary, Gateway Real Estate Africa

(“GREA”) have onboarded a “beyond-the-fence-line”

approach to all operations, which it believes drives

both profitability and long-term sustainability.

A case in point is the US$306 million sustainability

Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector


15

Have Your Say

linked real estate debt refinancing and syndication

refinance agreement concluded towards the end

of 2022 between Grit and Standard Bank. This

transaction was done at a time when emerging

and frontier market funding rates saw especially

significant increases and marked the largest

refinance transaction of its kind in Sub Saharan Africa

– excluding SA – setting a new benchmark for African

real estate investment.

In addition, GREA’s development of The Precinct in

Mauritius is the first five-star Green rated commercial

office development in the Indian Ocean Region and

has set the benchmark for the company’s future

developments across Africa, including current

developments in Kenya.

GREA’s mixed-use development in Tatu City, Eneo,

is purpose designed and built for CCI Global – the

largest international contact center operator in Africa

– and will for instance be done according to IFC EDGE

standards. EDGE (“Excellence in Design for Greater

Efficiencies”) was developed by the International

Finance Corporation (“IFC”), the private sector

arm of the World Bank Group to help developers

design, build, operate and register resource-efficient

buildings. It’s a free software, a green building

standard, and an international green building

certification system which enable developers to save

at least 20% in energy, water, and embodied energy

in materials compared to conventional building

methods.

In addition to environmental and social impact

studies, GREA ensures extensive community

consultation prior to development, with employment

creation, local community infrastructure

improvement and skills transfer key focus areas.

The use of local and international professional

services firms not only ensure a distinct architecture

representative of the local environment, but lead

to tangible savings on materials, which are mostly

locally sourced.

In Kenya, GREA has partnered with Buildher in

support of the NGO’s goal to increase women

representation in construction jobs from 3% to 10%

by 2030. In 2021, GREA funded 22 women to complete

the Buildher training and provided the opportunity

for the semi-skilled women to gain experience and

earn wages at its Rosslyn Grove project in Gigiri.

A large number of landlords and developers,

especially those operating in Africa, still regard

environmental and social sustainability as an

afterthought to profitability. The reality is that most

investors of reference have already transitioned to

making funding and investment decisions based on

financial, social and environmental returns.

Those real estate companies who are thinking

beyond buildings only stand to benefit as a result.

About the Author:

Nompumelelo (Pumi) Lukhele has over 18 years’

experience in development and project management

of commercial real estate across the African continent.

She joined Gateway Real Estate Africa (GREA) in

2018 and is currently the Head of Developments

and Construction – East Africa. She is armed with an

MBA, a BSc. (Honors) in Construction Management

and currently completing a Masters in Real Estate

Investment and Finance. In 2022 she was recognized

as Top100 Corporate Leader in the industry by South

African Institute of Black Property Practitioners

(SAIBPP).

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Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector


16

Have Your Say

How Africa can achieve SDG

goals in construction

By Mem Maina

Founder, Ninety10 Properties

Africa has often lagged behind in terms of technology and capacity in the

construction, technology and industrialization sectors. I believe that Africa

needs to forge its own path in the construction industry.

Many African governments have initiated

affordable housing projects; but these

have been plagued by corruption and

failure in many countries. The concept of affordability

is vague and subjective, and the industry is shrouded

in secrecy and complexity. Many Africans are still

struggling to access decent housing.

Many citizens dream of owning homes and living in

harmony with God and nature, a vision that is also

endorsed (though mostly in words) by the politicians.

Unfortunately, many contractors are driven by profit

and do not care about the aspirations of the people.

The following points highlight some of the things that

Africa can undertake

• Use of Sustainable and Locally-Sourced

Building Materials: By using materials such

as clay, bamboo, straw, wood, quarry stoned

and earth to build houses. These materials

are sustainable, environmentally friendly, and

readily available in most African countries. This

is in contrast to value-added (manufactured)

materials which are expensive and not

necessarily environmentally friendly.

• Passive Solar Design: Through functional

design techniques, we can build houses that are

energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.

Passive solar design involves orienting the house

to take advantage of the sun’s natural light and

heat, using insulation to reduce energy loss, and

incorporating natural ventilation (#wind, #trees,

#greening).

Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector


17

Have Your Say

• Rainwater Harvesting: Rainwater harvesting

is the collection and storage of rainwater for

future use. Africans can harvest rainwater from

rooftops and store it in tanks for domestic use.

Communities can come together and build

small seasonal dams to collect storm water for

agricultural uses. This reduces the demand for

water from other sources and conserves water

resources.

• Community Building: Africans culture has

long been collaborative and communal one.

Using this as an advantage, Africans can engage

in community building by sharing resources

and working together to build sustainable and

environmentally friendly homes. This can also

lead to the development of skills and knowledge

necessary for sustainable construction.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, achieving the Sustainable

Development Goals (SDGs) in the construction

industry is crucial for Africa’s economic and social

development. As the continent experiences rapid

urbanization, there is a need to ensure that the

built environment is sustainable and inclusive. By

adopting innovative construction technologies,

promoting green building practices, and investing

in human capacity development, African countries

can create sustainable and resilient infrastructure

that supports economic growth and social

development. Governments, industry players,

and other stakeholders must work together to

prioritize the SDGs in construction and take action

towards achieving them. By doing so, Africa can

build a brighter future for its people and ensure a

sustainable future for generations to come.

About the Author:

Mem Maina is a business leader with over 10 years of

experience in running tech-startups and delivering

high quality results in the construction industry. He

is the founder of Ninety10 Properties and co-founder

and director at Brookhill Projects Limited in Kenya.

He has a Bachelor of Science degree in Software

Engineering from Kenyatta University and a vast array

of construction related experience and education.

Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector


18

Have Your Say

A Call For A Permanent

Advisory Board For The

State Department For Lands

(The “Ministry”)

By Lydia Owuor

Partner, CM Advocates LLP

New land laws were introduced in Kenya

through the Land Act, 2012, the Land

Registration Act, 2012 (LRA), and the

National Land Commission Act, 2012, collectively

referred to as the “New System”. A key objective of

the New System was to consolidate and rationalize

the registration of titles to land. The following

measures were to be implemented in the process of

transitioning to the New System:

• establishment of a new land register that would

replace the old land registration system and

necessitate migration of titles from the old

register;

• creation of new land registration units, which

would necessitate conversion of titles;

• registration of land titles as conclusive evidence

of ownership, to transition land regimes applying

the system of registration of deeds;

• examination of titles issued under the repealed

Government Lands Act to assess registerable

particulars for fresh registration and issuance of

new titles;

• geo-referencing as a pre-condition for registration

of long-term leases having the effect of conferring

ownership;

• conversion of long-term leases registered on the

basis of architectural drawings to conform to the

LRA and the Sectional Properties Act, 2020;

• restructuring of landholding by non-citizens to

cap their ownership to leasehold tenures not

exceeding ninety-nine years;

• digitization of land records and the establishment

of an online platform for land transactions.

It is worth noting that 11 years have passed

since the initiation of the New System but none

of the deliverables listed above have been fully

implemented. The process has been slow and

inefficient with a myriad of challenges which have

hindered full execution, and this has had severe

consequences on land transactions in Kenya.

One cannot deny that key among these challenges is

a lack of technical capacity within the Ministry. The

complexity of these deliverables required a high level

of expertise, technical knowledge, and resources,

which the Ministry has been unable to fully provide

and has rightfully faced criticism for failing to meet

the expectations of the public. For instance, the

digitization of land records and the establishment

of an online platform for land transactions have

created concerns such as data security and privacy

but the Ministry is yet to put in place appropriate

measures to protect the security of the online

platform. In addition, the Ministry has effected many

land transactions on the online platform without

requiring advanced electronic signatures containing

security features, posing an integrity issue for the

system. Regarding non-citizens, it is still unclear how

they should be registered on the online platform and

how transactions that need notarization should be

carried out. The Ministry has also faced criticism for

not adapting to changing market trends in the real

Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector


19

Have Your Say

estate industry because the shift towards mixed-use

developments, phased and planned developments,

and off-plan developments may require different

approaches and regulations compared to traditional

real estate projects. We have also experienced

impractical deadlines such as the 2-year moratorium

beginning on 28 December 2020 for qualifying

existing long-term leases to comply with the

requirements on geo-referencing and sectional plans.

To address the technical capacity issues, there is a

need for establishing a permanent advisory board

with professionals from various fields to provide

expert guidance and oversight, review progress,

identify capacity gaps, and recommend areas

where the Ministry can adopt new approaches and

best practices. Experts in the advisory board can

bring a fresh perspective and provide expertise

and knowledge that the Ministry may not have

in-house, which can complement the Ministry’s

existing capacity and resources. It is quite common

for the Ministry to constitute a temporary taskforce

to address issues as they arise and for government

institutions to experience disruption when a new

government is elected, as high-level officials are often

replaced resulting in a loss of institutional memory

and a shift in priorities. The Ministry needs continuity

of expertise and advice over an extended period

of time through an advisory board that transcends

change in regime and a permanent advisory board

that can take a proactive approach before crises

arise. It could be a valuable resource in providing

timely and targeted advice and support to ensure

that the Ministry operates smoothly and maintains a

consistent level of service to the public.

About the Author:

Lydia Owuor is a highly experienced advocate with

expertise in all aspects of conveyancing and property

law, securities documentation, securities review,

and financial due diligence components of M&A

transactions. She holds a Master of Laws (LL.M.),

Diploma in Law, and LL.B from the University of

Nairobi.

She is currently a Partner at CM Advocates LLP,

where she is responsible for overseeing the

successful completion of complex real estate and/or

conveyancing deals and bank securities. She splits her

time between the law firm and CM Property Digest (a

company affiliated with the law firm) where she is the

Team Lead and Editor-in-Chief.

Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector


20

Have Your Say

The Forest Before The

Building

By Wekesa Simiyu

Architect, Build X Studios

With a rapidly growing urban population,

Kenya faces an annual housing deficit

of close to 200,000 homes according

to Housing Finance Africa. To achieve this growing

demand, we need to reduce our reliance on mineral

based, carbon intensive, finite building materials and

focus on renewable, biobased materials such as mass

timber. Mass timber is a building system made of

multiple solid wood pieces bonded together to create

panels, posts, beams and other elements of exceptional

strength.

Trees naturally sequester carbon dioxide from the

atmosphere, which is stored when used in durable

products. By using sustainable timber products to

construct buildings we guarantee that carbon is locked

away long-term, whilst we are also avoiding the high

carbon emissions from using concrete or steel.

The market value of forest resources, especially timber,

is on the rise and is a long-term repository of value. A

recent report from international engineering firm Arup

has estimated there could be 668,000 ha of plantation

area available across the East Africa region of Kenya,

Uganda, and Tanzania by 2040 to produce mass timber.

Utilising sustainable plantation forests in the

construction industry requires a change of approach.

The extractive idea where a resource is eliminated from

one area to benefit another is an exploitative process

that has been adopted from mining of finite materials.

This mentality is what has made the use of timber

in construction to be vilified as it is associated with

deforestation. The same way we invest in buildings as

long term assets is the same way we should think about

our forest resource. What we reap as profits is what we

use as building materials and then we maintain the

investment cycle.

By creating more value in forests with mass timber,

we are able to provide incentives for better forestry

management and more private capital investments

into forest growth. An increase in plantation forests will

increase the carbon sequestered from the atmosphere

and can create positive feedback loops benefitting the

climate and the economy as a whole.

As a new product on the market, full mass timber

construction will cost a premium compared with

traditional methods. With growth in the demand,

the superstructure costs will decrease significantly.

Hybrid solutions, which merge mass timber elements

with traditional methods can lower initial costs whilst

gradually introducing the product to market.

BuildX is developing mass timber demonstration

projects as a critical step towards creating market

demand and fostering an enabling environment for

mass timber processing and building at commercial

scale. An established mass timber sector offers a unique

opportunity to address the growing housing deficits in

Nairobi and other urban centres across the continent.

Author Bio:

Wekesa is a Kenyan licensed architect, Autodesk Tech

Leadership Development fellow, Quality of Life and

wellbeing champion and the mass timber lead at BuildX.

He has worked on projects focusing on alternative building

technology to advance environmentally conscious

materials, affordable healthcare, and socially responsive

design solutions. As Mass Timber Lead he is overseeing the

development of BuildX’s flagship mass timber building in

Kenya.

Before we think about building, we must start with asking

ourselves if we can reuse what is already existing. If we

absolutely need to build then careful attention should be

given to ensure efficient use of materials and the use of

renewable materials. Thinking about the end of life of a

building is equally important.

Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector


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22

Have Your Say

Zoomers in Real Estate –

How Demographics are

Driving Affordability and

Shaping Infrastructure for

New Stakeholders

By Fidel Mwaki

Founder, Fidel Mwaki & Company Advocates

As a member of the legal fraternity, it is no

longer surprising to see so many young

people investing in real estate in urban areas.

In the last decade, the market shift towards

affordable housing and rentals is no longer just a

talking point; it is happening everywhere in our

towns and cities. Changed demographics are playing

a critical role in decisions by developers and property

managers on how new projects can be better

structured for a younger population, and their needs

are driving the design and operation of a variety

of developments, including purpose-built student

accommodation, reasonably priced residential

housing, and trendy commercial spaces.

“Generation Z” (or Zoomers) represents a huge

percentage of the population in Kenya today, many

of whom study or work in urban areas. Zoomers

place certain factors above others when interacting

with real estate, whether as students, working

professionals, or young investors, such as:

• Price versus Comfort

Many developers are currently struggling with

how best to connect affordability with appealing

aesthetics and decent living standards. This

requires a bit of give and take, but the end goal

should be real estate products that Zoomers can

actively invest in without denting their pockets.

• In-house facilities

Availing communal meeting points for young

residents to interact with each other heightens

the importance of having a tailored variety of

amenities within residences that often now

include swimming pools, recreation areas, and

chill spots.

• Connectivity at home

Up-to-date technology infrastructure with 4G/5G

networks within residences is critical to enabling

young residents’ study from home, enhance

their online visibility, and encourage business

pursuits as promising entrepreneurs, creatives, or

celebrities.

With so many young people taking a keen interest

in real estate, the leadership within the sector

must adapt their approach to this new generation

of actors who operate with a different attitude

that is both refreshing and challenging in equal

measure.

Some solutions to consider from a legal, sales and

financial perspective are:

• A focus on flexible pricing will allow Zoomers

to access real estate opportunities at a young

age, and it is incumbent upon financiers and

developers to find a way to establish payment

Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector


23

Have Your Say

terms that take into consideration their growth

potential rather than pricing them out of

worthwhile investments over a lack of high initial

capital.

• A simplified legal process and communication

is key. Zoomers don’t lack intelligence; they

just prefer to skim through the details. Having

legal documentation that is easy to read and

digest helps secure their attention faster, while

a process that focuses on speed and instant

communication is their preferred way of sealing

the deal.

• A youthful and agile sales team will have better

success signing up young people, who relate

better to their peers as compared to older groups.

Retaining confident, adaptive, and creative

personalities at the forefront of your marketing

strategy ensures you keep a pulse on Zoomer’s

trends even as you direct them toward real estate

investments.

One thing is for certain: the Generation Z

demographic cannot be ignored as an emerging

stakeholder in the built environment. They are the

future investors and off-takers in real estate projects

across our urban areas, and developers must adjust

their mindset and consider structuring their products

in line with the needs of this new generation.

About the Author:

Fidel Mwaki is an advocate of the High Court of Kenya

with extensive knowledge and experience in real

estate whose practice currently centres on real estate

developments and related commercial transactions.

He represents clients developing multi-use commercial

and residential real estate projects including advising

on structuring joint venture arrangements and project

documents such as construction contracts, agency

agreements, sale agreements and long-term leases.

Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector


24

Have Your Say

Purples Dot International

Special Touch in Kenyan

Real Estate Market

By Jiten Kerai

General Manager, Purple Dot International Ltd

Purple Dot International is a fast growing

dynamic commercial, industrial, and

residential developer that is transforming the

Kenyan real estate landscape with its commitment

to affordable, sustainable development and highquality

projects. Founded in 2017, Purple Dot

International has established itself as a trusted brand

in the industry, with a focus on creating world-class

investment opportunities that meet the needs of the

most discerning clients globally.

At the heart of Purple Dot International’s philosophy

is a commitment to build quality, relevant,

sustainable development practices that prioritize

the environment and the well-being of the local

community. Their developments are designed to

minimize the impact on the environment while

saving energy and reducing waste.

One of Purple Dot International’s most exciting

developments is their upcoming tower designed for

business, designed for success, themed Purple Tower.

The Grade A, mixed used development commercial

high-rise, sits on Mombasa rd., 500 meters from

the Nyayo Roundabout, features innovative green

technology that enables tenants to reduce their

energy consumption by over 30%, The Excellence in

Design for greater efficiencies development features

energy-efficient appliances and fixtures that reduce

water and energy usage. The tower which is currently

31% complete will feature commercial offices, with

high-end international Grade A premium interior

finishes, amenities and services that cater to the

needs of their esteemed client.

Purple Dot International’s developments are known

for their exceptional quality and attention to detail.

Its Success in Off-Plan development has seen the

company lead in Warehousing spaces in Athi river

with over 4,000,000 SQFT. Their most recent being

Harvest industrial park Phase 1 & 2 still underway

after the success of Graylands Phase 1-7. They

work with top architects and designers to create

spaces that are not only functional but also beautiful

and inspiring. Their commercial and industrial

developments feature modern and flexible spaces

that meet the evolving needs of businesses, while

their residential developments for instance Serene

Park, fully detailed modern contemporary villas

located at the Machakos junction on Mombasa

offer serene opulence, luxurious and comfortable

living spaces with stunning views of the surrounding

landscape.

In conclusion, Purple Dot International is a visionary

developer that is changing the Off-plan Kenyan real

estate prospect with its commitment to become

Africa’s excellence driven real estate developer. Their

commercial, industrial, and residential developments

offer exceptional value and cater to the needs of

clients who are looking for world-class spaces that

meet their unique requirements. As they continue

to expand and innovate, Purple Dot International is

poised to become a leader in the Kenyan real estate

industry, delivering sustainable and high-quality

developments that benefit both the environment and

the local community. Making your investments grow

for you.

Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector


ADVERTISE

WITH US

The Developer’s Digest is filled with current industry news,

updates on the Association’s ongoing activities, views,

interesting facts and specialty advertising messages.

Looking for the perfect place to advertise your business to

a highly engaged and targeted audience? Look no further

than the KPDA Developers Digest! Our publication is read by

thousands of real estate developers, contractors and investors,

making it the perfect place to get your message in front of the

right people.

For more information

Kindly reach out to Yvonne Ndegwa on telephone 0725 286 689 or

by email to membership@kpda.or.ke / ceo@kpda.or.ke.

Kenya Property Developers Association @KPDA_Ke Kenya Property Developers Association


26

opinion

Celebrating the Leading Ladies

in KPDA

In celebration of International Women’s Day 2023, KPDA

highlighted the bold, incredible and impactful women who

are changing the real estate sector. This year’s theme is

‘DigitALL: Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality

draws appreciation on the strong correlation between

digitization and gender equality and how advancements

in digital transformation can go hand in hand with

advancements in gender equality.

In order to expand our prospects and build a larger network

of empowered women in real estate who can support

one another and inspire upcoming female professionals

in the sector, we are celebrating the powerful women

transforming our industry through a month-long interview

series of the leading women in brick and mortar. We are

running a spotlight on some of the successful women who

are founders, leaders or hold senior positions in the real

estate industry from our membership base. Kenya Property

Developers Association is home to some of the most dynamic

and accomplished women in the real estate industry.

Let’s take a moment to recognize their achievements and

celebrate their success.

By Anne Kinyanjui

Partner, Iseme Kamau & Maema Advocates LLP

1. What is equality in your own words?

Having the same rights, privileges, treatments,

status, and opportunities.

However, within the context of the EmbraceEquity

theme for IWD2023, equal opportunity may

not be enough to achieve equality. Equitable

solutions are therefore required in order to

achieve this. Equity recognizes that each person

has different circumstances and allocates the

exact resources and opportunities need to reach

an equal outcome

2. Why do you think diversity in the workplace is

so important?

Research has shown that one of the ways of

alleviating “groupthink” is to introduce diversity.

Groupthink is the tendency for a group of people

to gradually drift towards the same belief and

style of thinking. Groupthink can lead to less

rational course of action and a narrower range

of options and opinions. I believe that there

has to be enough diversity in a workplace to

counterbalance the effects of “groupthink”.

Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector


27

opinion

3. In your opinion, what is the nexus between

digitization and gender equality and how

can technology bridge the gender gap in the

industry?

Technology is definitely playing an important

role in the evolution of real estate. We have seen

other sectors getting disrupted by technology

and it is inevitable that this will also happen in

the real estate sector. Awareness and forwardthinking

will be vital in strategy and the approach

to certain aspects of the ever-evolving real estate

environment. Anyone who is anticipating these

disruptions can position themselves by learning

the necessary digital skills required to adapt

when the disruption inevitably occurs.

Learning digital skills also allow for improved

efficiency and transformation.

4. What sacrifices have you had to make for your

career as a woman?

I have been blessed to work at a firm that

gives the same rights and opportunities to all

regardless of gender. I have however in the

past had to make choices to forego certain

opportunities that entailed travel especially

when my kids were younger. I do not regret those

choices.

5. What practical measures can individuals,

companies and society take to support greater

gender balance in the real estate sector?

Some of these measures include

(i) acknowledging the gender imbalance

(ii) being mindful when recruiting – remove

gender biases – the mindset that certain jobs

can only be performed by a certain sex

(iii) removing any gender pay gap (if such exists)

(iv) build an enabling environment in the work

place

6. Are you currently working on any exciting

new projects? How do you think that will help

people and communities?

Yes I am. Outside work I am wellness enthusiast.

I am passionate about movement having seen

the huge beneficial effect it has had on my life.

One of the physical activities I do is yoga - I have

been practicing it for over 8 years. I first noticed

the positive impact practising yoga had on my

physical health – balance, strength, flexibility

and increased body awareness. With time, I

also began to notice the immense benefit of my

practice to my mental well- being and all other

aspects of my life.

I partnered with a friend last year (who is also a

lawyer) to open a yoga and wellness studio at

ABC Place, Westlands. The name of the studio is

Siha Wellness Studios. Having seen the benefits

of this practice in our lives, we wanted to share it

with others in a space where they feel welcomed

with no judgment.

7. What is a skill you think all women should

learn and why?

I got this quote from book I read some time back:

“give yourself more grace, less judgement, more

credit, less criticism”. I remind myself of this

everyday. We can be our own worst critic and we

need to treat ourselves with compassion

8. If you could dine with three inspirational

women, dead or alive, who would they be and

why?

My mother – the older I get the more I understand

the choices and sacrifices she made when

growing up. Her ambition and drive continues to

inspire me

Gerda Lerna and Raine Eisler – I have been

reading their books on understanding patriarchy.

Her books have helped me understand and get

answers to so many questions I had on these

inequitable systems

9. On international women’s day, what is the

most important advice you can give to women

just starting their real estate careers?

Know your trade and profession and know it

well. Stay up to date with developments in your

profession. Be a critical thinker, take initiative and

be proactive. And lastly give yourself more credit

and less criticism, more grace less judgment.

Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector


28

opinion

By Caroline Wanjeri Kihara

Head, KCB Foundation

1. What is equality in your own words?

• For me equality means living in a world

where responsibilities and opportunities do

not depend on whether one is born male

or female. Equality in this case means each

individuals’ interests, needs and priorities

are taken into consideration, recognizing

the diversity of different groups of people.

Whether a person is living with disability, man

or woman.

• It is a human rights issue and as a precondition

for sustainable people-centered development.

2. Why do you think diversity in the work place is

so important?

• Diversity is key as it brings various

perspectives and insight to the workplace, this

is what gives an organisation innovation and

unique products to tap into various audiences.

It reminds us that we are human and humanity

for all is key. In Africa we call this Ubuntu.

• Diversity means providing an opportunity for

anyone who applies for any role regardless of

their religion, culture, background, language,

physical attributes, as long as they meet the

required skillset.

3. In your opinion, what is the nexus between

digitization and gender equality and how can

we bridge the gender gap in the industry?

• The industry has been predominantly male

dominated due to the traditional nature of

construction work. Women still have a long

way to go in taking up more roles and attaining

representation in the sector.

• The industry’s digital future can bring an

opportunity for change. We can pro-actively

use technological developments to make

the sector more inclusive, and a more equal

one. Online identities can assume no gender.

As such, first impressions can be based on

merit, rather than a conditioned response

to an individual’s gender presentation.

We have attempted to bridge this gap at

KCB Foundation through partnership with

construction firms that have embraced

technology and alternative building

technology that encourages girls to also

participate in the construction industry. The

construction site is changing from the old

mjengo site characterized with brick and

mortar to a more modern friendly working site

where women can also participate.

• In the emerging digital workplace, traditional

career structures are forecast to be less

attractive, and may no longer be the norm.

Instead, developer companies might offer

a new, location-independent, flexible

environment in which those women and men

who support families might thrive.

• The industry’s culture of long hours and being

seen at work may finally begin to change.

• However, to fully embrace the opportunities

that an internet-enabled industry can promise,

the digital transformation needs to be met by

a cultural one. This cultural shift would need

to allow employees to manage their home life

commitments, defining new career and reward

structures so that the best of developer’s

talent pool can deliver their best work.

• It should also allow for anyone, despite

their gender to take up any role they want

as long as they prove they can perform. This

also includes opportunities in the field and

construction sites.

4. What sacrifices have you had to make for your

career as a woman?

• Time and career choice for family is a sacrifice I

have had to make severally. As a proud mother

of 5, my family means the world to me. I have

declined job offers when they came when I felt

I needed more time with the kids as they were

growing up. Our 1st Born son is a 2nd year

student at the University and the 2nd Born

will be joining him next year. They are one and

Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector


29

opinion

a half years apart and we had them when we

were just starting our career Journey.

• Having a spouse who is also a Senior Banker

means I had to make career choices and even

employers who are able to accommodate

my schedule as both a wife and a mother. At

one time my husband worked away in South

Africa when our kids were very young and I

decided to join him but soon realised that we

were better of; with me remaining in Kenya

as I supervised construction of our home as I

balanced bring up the two young boys. When

an opportunity for him to come back to Kenya

Knocked in; it coincidentally happened to be

the same bank that had also just offered me

a job on a promotion. I had to sacrifice my

offer letter as it was more important for us as

a family to have him back in the Country. God

places family first and he definitely did make

sure that another door of opportunity opened.

• Sometimes the job needs you to travel,

put in late hours to close a deal or finalise

reports. This is a thin line that I have learnt to

tred carefully in order to achieve a sense of

balance.

• Time also spills over to personal friendships

and commitments not related to work; you get

to a place where life becomes a big balancing

act. I have surrounded myself with a strong

personal Board of Directors who help me keep

the balance in my marital, spiritual, social and

career development.

• Besides being a career woman. Mother and

wife and I have found an even better purpose

in giving back through mentorship and have

taken this as a commitment to encourage

young ladies to take up leadership roles. As an

Alumni of Maryhill Girls and Strathmore- I have

adopted several girls that I mentor and coach.

I mentor the 3rd and 4th Year Finance students

at my alma mater Strathmore University

through the annual finance Roundtables and

encourage especially ladies to embrace and

thrive in Finance.

5. What practical measures can individuals,

companies and society take to support greater

gender balance in the real estate sector?

• The world is progressing on a positive note

with ethical, inclusive and sustainable

practices increasingly becoming a focal

point of conversation across various facets

of society, including business, academia,

government and private sector alike.

• We all can do what we can in our little spaces

to create an environment that allows the

girl-child to thrived.Just like the Financial

sector, Real Estate is stereotyped to be a field

for Men. I attribute my success in the two

sectors to leaders including and mostly male

who recognise and appreciate that women

are as good and went ahead to create an

environment that supported me both as a

mother, wife and employee. I have worked

for KCB Group for the longest; Three of my

children were born while I was at KCB. The

bank supported my career growth even when

I took leave to be with the babies and when I

came back I was able to have flexi- Hours that

helped me manage my work without worrying

too much about the babies. This might sound

small but it means a lot for young women

looking to build their career as many give up

or opt to have a break if the employer does not

provide a conducive environment.

• Slowly but surely, pioneer-thinking, ethical

businesses with strong core values are already

striving to achieve gender diversity and

inclusivity.

• This is because even as we move to the

actualization of one of Kenya’s vision 2030

goals on gender diversity, businesses recognize

that it is the right thing to do and understand

the value it brings on board. Gender diversity is

about striving to grant equity to both genders.

For this to happen, there is a strong need to

create a working environment and a culture

that allows female talent to thrive.

• This same emphasis on equal opportunities

should be applied in the real estate industry,

so that one’s gender doesn’t determine their

future in the industry.

• The players in the industry should take

targeted streps to recruit and develop women

across the board. At construction sites, safety

measures should be introduced so that women

can work safely without facing discrimination,

intimidation or sexual harassment. They

should also have separate changing rooms,

mothers’ rooms as well as toilets for safety

purposes.

• This same equality should apply in pay

and recruitment opportunities so that

more women consider taking up careers in

construction and real estate.

• I am a product of this Diversity and proud to

Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector


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opinion

be one of the lady Board Directors serving at

KPDA.

6. Are you currently working on any exciting

new projects? How do you think that will help

people and communities?

• My current role at KCB Foundation has

given me the opportunity to do work that

actually impacts the lives of people in our

communities.

• One of the pillars in our youth skills

development program – 2jiajiri – actually

intersects with this industry, as its focused-on

skilling youth in the construction sector.

• I found it interesting that many women shyed

off from construction sites and through our

partnership with Builcon Industries and

Buildher, I have seen more women join in

technical skills training previously stereotyped

to belong to men.

• Through the 2jijiri program, KCB provides

support packages that combine vocational

skills training, business development training,

access to finance and mentorship for youth

in the program. These work better than only

delivering stand-alone interventions.

• Since inception in 2016, 2Jiajiri has engaged

42,024 youths in vocational skills ranging

from automotive engineering, domestic

services, construction, agribusiness, ICT and

manufacturing.

• 16,408 youth have received skills training with

over KShs. 540M loans disbursed to create

64,186 jobs directly and 35,365 indirectly with

4,158 businesses currently under incubation.

• Besides this I have continued to Serve in the

Board of KPDA where I have seen more and

more Women Developers embracing the

industry.

• I have also recently been appointed to Join

Kenya National Chamber of Commerce

and Industry- KNCCI where I will be the

Chairperson for Manufacturing and Special

Economic Zones and am keen to see how We

shall get more Women in Manufacturing and

how we intergrate to ensure financial inclusion

for MSMES in these two sectors.

7. What is a skill you think all women should learn

and why?

• Financial management. Learning the basics

of math and financial management is key for

anyone, and especially women. I don’t say

this just because am a Certified Accountant of

Kenya but because I know it does matter that

anyone understands the basics that defines

the bottom line-simply put as the profit. This

will help you to create a household budget and

live within your means, manage your credit,

and do your own taxes. It’s also the key to the

art and science behind investing and building

your wealth. You’ll be set to live comfortably

and save for retirement.

8. If you could dine with three inspirational

women, dead or alive, who would they be and

why?

• Wangarĩ Muta Maathai – I would like to get

her views on so many things, as the trailblazer

she was, both locally and internationally.

Being the first woman in East and Central

Africa to earn a doctorate degree a social,

environmental and a political activist and

the first African woman to win the Nobel

Peace Prize. She was passionate and an avid

environmentalist.

• Margaret Thatcher – Margaret’s fierceness

is what I’d love to tap into. As Britain’s first

female (and longest-serving) Prime Minister

aka “Iron Lady” for her strong opinions, strict

policy, and firm leadership.

• Coco Chanel – This lady got us to where we

are today fashion wise, a whole icon. She

revolutionized the way the female body looked

(and felt) in clothing by stripping back the

layers and corsets women were known to

wear in the 1900s, and highlighting the natural

shape of a woman.

• “In order to be irreplaceable, one must always

be different” is her famous line and I love that

she is a feminist icon in fashion, who believed

women could look just as elegant in a pantsuit

as they could in a dress.

9. On IWD, what is the most important advise you

can give to women just starting their real estate

careers?

• Believe and always bet in yourself, go after

what you want. It will take guts and action

to move from one place in life to another.

Do not be afraid to go for careers that are

“traditionally male” viewed. Stay guided

by your own personal integrity and be your

greatest cheerleader. You can do it!

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31

opinion

By Makena Muturia

Director, Geosurveys and Geospatial Information Ltd

1. What is equality in your own words?

Equality is acknowledging the potential, performance,

and roles of women in all sectors without biases.

Knowing that with consistency and resilience a woman

can achieve big and great milestones and there’s no

limit to what a woman can do! The future is female.

2. Why do you think diversity in the workplace is so

important?

Diversity helps breed creativity, performance,

innovation, and talent. In the current trends, the

workplace is more dynamic, and we are in an era of

revolution in technology. Diversity gives rooms for

organizations to hire the best, nature the best, and

work in the best conducive environment. It challenges

the workplace to not be the old traditional , paperwork

,8-5 place.

3. In your opinion, what is the nexus between

digitization and gender equality and how can

technology bridge the gender gap in the industry?

Digitization has eased the way of working, increased

productivity, cut on costs and saved time. With

digitization, there’s work efficiency making the

environment conducive to thrive for both genders.

E.g., digitization of workplace systems means women

can work away from home when on a maternity

leave and equally meet their performance targets. It

makes workflow uninterrupted and thus levels the

playground for either gender.

Technology brings efficiency and level the play field at

the workplace.

4. What sacrifices have you had to make for your

career as a woman?

Hahahaha,

I am a GEOSPATIAL ENGINEER & GIS EXPERT. My field

is intense on the technical aspect and needs more

endurance and resilience. As a woman , I must put

in extra time to ensure I remain at the top. Besides,

with the certain regulations in the industry, you must

work extra hard to play on the same level as the male

colleagues. This means getting out of the comfort

zone.

5. What practical measures can individuals,

companies and society take to support greater

gender balance in the real estate sector?

We need to change our perception on what women

can do and not do. We need to have an open mind

that they can do equally what me can do. We need

to also change the culture of acknowledging women

differently at the workplace and sort of brewing stigma

and limiting beliefs. Women need to walk in the room

head high and confident that the play field is level.

We need a change in perception and culture.

6. Are you currently working on any exciting new

projects? How do you think that will help people

and communities?

Yes! I am working on a GIS Mapping project that’s

targeting informal settlements. The main objective

being regularizing land ownership and upgrading

informal settlements into more well planned and

livable areas! That’s the best thing that can happen,

when people have security of tenure on the land they

live in and have all the utilities they need! Definitely!

Lives are impacted.

7. What is a skill you think all women should learn and

why?

The one skill I think all women should learn is

communication. All human relationships, at the

workplace, business and social are built on efficient

communication. I believe, ‘it is not what you say

but how you say it’. Women need to thrive softly at

the workplace. They can achieve this with efficient

communication.

8. If you could dine with three inspirational women,

dead or alive, who would they be and why?

The VP of the united states; KAMALA HARRIS, THE

former first lady; MICHELLE OBAMA and OPRAH

WINFREY

They all define the soft Power and potential women

Hold.

9. On international women’s day, what is the most

important advice you can give to women just

starting their real estate careers?

Its never easy! Be resilient and consistent.

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opinion

By Etta Madete Mukuba

Affordable Housing Lead, Build X Studios

What is equality in your own words?

Equality is about ensuring that women have a

voice in spaces that have historically been maledominated.

Design and construction is one such

sector.

In Kenya, only 8% of registered architects and 11%

of engineers are women. Female representation

for construction jobs is even lower. Out of 138k

registered construction workers in the industry,

women only represent 3%. Equality in this case is

about coming up with strategies and policies that

ensure we have better representation.

In the affordable housing space where my specialty

lies, gender equality can only be achieved through

participation of women in all aspects of housingrelated

policymaking, design, construction, and

community engagement.

Why do you think diversity in the

workplace is so important?

The services rendered by any company affect

both genders. It is therefore only fair that there is

a representation of both genders at all levels. You

cannot come up with exceptional products if the

voices of all stakeholders have not been considered.

1. In your opinion, what is the nexus between

digitization and gender equality and how

can technology bridge the gender gap in the

industry?

In my view and from the context of the sector

I am working in, that is, Affordable Housing,

Architecture and Real Estate, digitisation is the

only way we can reach scale. It is the only way

to create a gender equal world, a gender equal

society of home ownership, of construction and

design. Technology therefore acts as that bridge

to truly scale our impact.

2. What sacrifices have you had to make for your

career as a woman?

I am one of seven children, I am a twin, I am

30 years old and I only got married last year. I

don’t have children yet so I think the fact that

I chose to get into the career that I am in now,

in Architecture and that it took me 3 years to

become a registered architect, 3 years of masters

and still doing a few more studies; I feel like I have

had to do a lot of education and self training to

find my place in the boardroom. I believe maybe

for other people, the strategy would have been

different.

Back to the question. I think the biggest sacrifice

I have made is that I chose to be a career woman

and that means there are some aspects of kids

and family that sometimes get compromised. I

sometimes try to balance the best I can but that’s

the reality. And to clarify, it is not that I do not

want kids, I do want kids but sometimes you have

to pace yourself because there are only so many

things you can do at the same time.

3. What practical measures can individuals,

companies and society take to support greater

gender balance in the real estate sector?

We need policies that encourage and support

women who are often the ones underrepresented

to lend their voice to issues that

affect both genders.

Women who are leading in the sector also need to

come forth and mentor the younger ones

4. Are you currently working on any exciting

new projects? How do you think that will help

people and communities?

I am currently leading the Zima Homes team as

Co-Founder and CEO and the Affordable Housing

Lead for BuildX.

Zima Homes is an affordable housing project by

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33

opinion

the community, and neighbourhood. Secondly,

by ensuring the building is designed to enable

access by physically disabled persons on the

lower ground floor units, main courtyard and

laundry area. In addition, considerations have

been made on the type, height and size of

signages to enable easier navigation access view.

Local labour and employment of women have

been prioritised on our site. To date we have been

able to achieve at least 12% representation. Our

aim is to have at least 30% women employed on

our site.

5. What is a skill you think all women should

learn and why?

There is a skills and gender gap in the design and

build sector. We need to bridge both gaps and I

therefore encourage women to pursue accredited

skills that fall within the broad spectrum of the

sector.

Zima Homes

BuildX Studio. Zima Homes was conceptuliased

to exemplify what sustainable, green and

dignified housing should look like for the bottom

40% of the population.

We have stayed true to that mission and Zima

Homes is now one of only a few affordable

housing projects in Kenya and the larger East

Africa region to become EDGE Certified.

We not only want to provide affordable housing

for the low income bracket but we also want to

encourage community living with designated

spaces for socialising in the courtyard and

rooftop. Zima Homes is centrally located in an

up and coming rental market and just by a newly

constructed major highway affording anyone

who will live at Zima great access to public

transportation and easy access to major business

nodes and shopping centres.

Inclusivity is an important element in this project

and we are tackling it in three key ways. Firstly, at

macro level, the project site is located adjacent

to a major accessible road that will be frequented

by public transport vehicles 5 minutes’ walk from

the property entrance, making it inclusive to

There are organisations such Buildher- a sister

company to BuildX Studio- that are equipping

women with accredited construction skills.

They have also recently partnered with the

government on the affordable housing agenda, so

a lot of their graduates will work in these projects.

This goes to show that there are opportunities in

the sector but women need to be proactive and

design and construction companies need to be

open to giving women a chance.

6. If you could dine with three inspirational

women, dead or alive, who would they be and

why?

Not able to answer just now

7. On international women’s day, what is the

most important advice you can give to women

just starting their real estate careers?

I would say, be confident, be clear, and be

courageous. The Real Estate world is just like

any other sector, it’s just been male-dominated

for so long but if you are confident, clear and

courageous, most people give you the room.

People are willing to learn from each other. Don’t

be arrogant or self righteous; just take your

space and let those willing to participate with

you participate and those who don’t let them be.

Don’t get angry, just be calm.

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opinion

By Lydia Owuor

Partner, CM Advocates LLP

1. What is equality in your own words?

• In my own words, equality is the recognition

that each individual possesses unique

qualities and abilities that are shaped by their

diverse backgrounds, gender, race, religion

and other factors. It means acknowledging

that no one is inherently better or worse than

another based on these differences. Rather,

we all have something valuable to contribute

to society, and our differences complement

each other.

2. Why do you think diversity in the workplace is

so important?

• Diversity in the workplace is important

because diverse teams can bring a variety of

perspectives and ideas to the table, which can

lead to more innovative solutions and better

decision-making. When individuals with

different backgrounds and experiences work

together, they can challenge each other’s

assumptions, broaden their understanding,

and come up with new and creative ideas.

3. In your opinion, what is the nexus between

digitization and gender equality and how

can technology bridge the gender gap in the

industry?

• Digitization has transformed the way we

access, use, and share information, and

has enabled new forms of communication,

collaboration, and innovation. In this

context, digitization has the potential to

promote gender equality in several ways: (a)

by helping break down traditional gender

barriers through creating more flexible and

remote work opportunities, which can help

women with caregiving responsibilities to

balance work and family obligations; (b) by

providing exposure and visibility to women

who are breaking barriers and succeeding

in this traditionally male-dominated field,

which can be an effective way to motivate

and inspire other women across the

globe; (c) by supporting mentorship and

networking programs for women; (d) by

connecting women in similar fields or with

similar experiences through women-only

communities that have become increasingly

popular on social media platforms in

recent years; and (e) by improving access

to education and training through online

learning platforms and digital courses.

4. What sacrifices have you had to make for your

career as a woman?

• I have had to make certain sacrifices

to achieve my goals, particularly as an

introverted person in environments that

prioritize extroverts. Being an introvert means

that I tend to be more reserved and prefer

solitary activities, which can be challenging

in a career that often requires networking,

public speaking, and socializing. In order

to make an impact in my career, I have

had to step outside of my comfort zone,

learn to be more assertive and confident

in my interactions with others, and push

myself to engage in activities that may feel

uncomfortable.

5. What practical measures can individuals,

companies and society take to support greater

gender balance in the real estate sector?

• Measures such as offering flexible work

arrangements, advocating for policies that

support work-life balance and equal pay,

promoting diversity and inclusion in hiring

and promotions, and providing mentorship

and sponsorship opportunities for women.

6. Are you currently working on any exciting

new projects? How do you think that will help

people and communities?

• Yes, I am currently contributing to and

serving as the editor-in-chief of a legal

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35

opinion

Shonda Rhimes Susan Cain Esther Perel

education magazine aimed at educating and

empowering the property industry and the

public in general. Our magazine covers a wide

range of legal topics related to real estate and

property law, with the goal of helping our

readers stay informed about important legal

developments, trends, and best practices.

We also feature articles and interviews with

experts in the field, as well as practical tips

and insights for individuals and businesses

navigating the complex world of real estate.

I am excited to be part of this project and

believe it has the potential to make a real

difference in our community.

7. What is a skill you think all women should

learn and why?

• A skill that I think all women should learn

is how to say no in a clear, respectful, and

assertive manner. Saying no can be an

important part of negotiating and advocating

for oneself, and can help build confidence and

self-respect.

8. If you could dine with three inspirational

women, dead or alive, who would they be and

why?

• If I could dine with three inspirational women,

dead or alive, I would choose Shonda Rhimes,

Susan Cain and Esther Perel. Shonda Rhimes

is an incredible woman who has achieved

great success on shows like Grey’s Anatomy,

Scandal, and How to Get Away with Murder.

However, I was most inspired by a relatable

talk she gave on “when the hum stopped”

where she shares her personal experience

of feeling overwhelmed and overworked,

despite her incredible success. Posing the

question “what do you do when the thing

you do—the work you love—starts to taste

like dust?” she reminds us that it’s important

to listen to the hum of our own lives and to

make choices that allow us to be fully present

and engaged in the moments that matter

most. Susan Cain is a thought leader who

has helped raise awareness about the value

of introverts in society and the workplace. As

an introvert myself, I deeply appreciate her

insights on how introverts can harness their

strengths and thrive in a world that often

favours extroverts. Esther Perel’s insights

on love, desire, and human connection

have challenged my own assumptions and

expanded my understanding of what it means

to have healthy and fulfilling relationships.

• I’m sure you would love to join us but if there

was room for two more phenomenal women,

I would go with Maya Angelou and Katherine

Goble Johnson.

9. On international women’s day, what is the

most important advice you can give to women

just starting their real estate careers?

• Remember that you have unique skills and

talents to bring to the table, so be audacious

and take bold actions. Do not be afraid of

going after what you want.

Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector


36

opinion

By Ruth Okal

Assistant General Manager, Property Business, ICEA Lion Asset Management Limited

1. What is equality in your own words?

Equality is a fundamental concept in many fields

and also one that is quite challenging to achieve

across the globe. In the work environment, it

means that all individuals that are facing similar

circumstances or handling similar jobs should

be treated with the same level of dignity and

respect, and be given access to equal resources,

opportunities, and protection regardless of their

personal characteristics like gender, race, or

religion

2. Why do you think diversity in the workplace is

so important?

Diversity is a strength for any organization.

It brings together a range of perspectives,

experiences, and ideas that can help improve

decision-making and lead to better outcomes.

When diversity is fused with inclusion, it creates

an environment where everyone feels valued,

that their opinions count regardless of their

background or identity. These have the potential

of achieving better talent retention, excellent

performance and customer satisfaction in an

organization.

3. In your opinion, what is the nexus between

digitization and gender equality and how

can technology bridge the gender gap in the

industry?

The nexus between digitization and gender

equality refers to the impact of the increasing use

of digital technologies and their potential impact

on the various aspects of gender equality such as

workplace, healthcare, and social and political

participation.

As a professional and a mother, I think that

digitization provides opportunities for promoting

gender equality such as enabling flexible working

arrangements that can benefit women who want

to balance their caregiving responsibilities and

full-time employment. It also gives access to

online education and training and a wider reach

to the audiences through social media which help

to bridge the gender gap.

Unfortunately, there have been several cases of

cyber harassment and discrimination that tend

to reinforce the existing gender inequalities. It is

therefore important to ensure that technology is

accessible and gender inclusive, safe for use by all

to help bridge the gap.

4. What sacrifices have you had to make for your

career as a woman?

As a career woman within the capital markets

and real estate, the sacrifices abound. The most

notable in my case was the Time with family and

friends – The building phase of my career left

me with less time for family and friends due to

demands from work and the need to prioritize

work sometimes. There are seasons for frequent

travel and extended absence from home, working

long hours, across different time zones, and

taking on extra responsibilities in order to achieve

organizational goals.

5. What practical measures can individuals,

companies and society take to support greater

gender balance in the real estate sector?

It is important for individuals to have a strong

social fabric around them for example trusted

family members who share the same value

system and can step in to provide caregiving

activities when the lady of the house needs to be

away or take up more responsibilities

For organizations, there is a need to recognize the

value and contribution that career women bring

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37

opinion

to the organization and provide a supportive

and inclusive environment that allows women to

pursue their professional goals without sacrificing

their personal well-being or relationships. Simple

things like flexi times, bring your kids to work

days, mentorship programs and such can go a

long way in supporting women to thrive in the

workplace

6. Are you currently working on any exciting

new projects? How do you think that will help

people and communities?

I am passionate about real estate especially REITs

which aim to democratize ownership of the real

estate in a structured and regulated manner.

REITs are new in Kenya and thus need for investor

education.

I am currently part of the team that is coming

up with the Toolkit & Incubator program for

REITs in Kenya. The planned activities include

workshops to develop of the toolkit with over 30

industry experts, an investment series focused

on real estate investment and risk management,

incubator design meetings with various REIT

promoters, mobilization of new REIT Managers

and Trustees, and engagement with fund

managers and pension trustees to educate them

on REITs and real estate investments. This will

revolutionize the REIT sector in Kenya when it is

launched later this year.

7. What is a skill you think all women should

learn and why?

All women should have a distinct competitive

advantage which they should strive to strengthen

over time. Some of the key skills include:

1. Resilience – in the face of setbacks and

challenges, women need to build resilience to

bounce back, adapt to change and maintain a

positive outlook

2. Emotional Intelligence – to help women

understand their own emotions, those of

others leading to better relationships and

effective leadership

8. If you could dine with three inspirational

women, dead or alive, who would they be and

why?

1. Wangari Maathai – for her foresight - She

foresaw the climate challenges that we are

facing today and took action by founding

the Greenbelt movement which empowered

women in rural Kenya and also fought for

human rights and democracy

2. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf – her pioneering

leadership that broke barriers for women

in African politics, stabilizing Liberia after

the civil war, promoting gender equality,

economic empowerment and good

governance

3. Maya Angelou – For using her talent to

advocate for social justice and equality and

showing us that it is possible

9. On international women’s day, what is the

most important advice you can give to women

just starting their real estate careers?

There is a lot to share but allow me to leave the

young women with the following quotes:

1. Choose a job that you love and you will never

have to work a day in your life! - Confucius

2. In order to succeed, your desire for success

must be greater than your fear of failure – Bill

Cosby

Remember that a mind troubled with doubt,

cannot be set on the path of victory. Focus on the

goal and find a way of diffusing the white noises!

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38

opinion

By Samantha Muna

Director, Trianum Hospitality Ltd

1. What is equality in your own words?

Equal career opportunities for both men and

women without gender discrimination.

2. Why do you think diversity in the workplace is so

important?

Each person has a great deal to offer no matter

their gender, race, age, social and educational

background. The more each organization is open to

the perspectives of other people who are not from

similar backgrounds, the more likely it is to remain

relevant and succeed, in spite of turbulent times.

3. In your opinion, what is the nexus between

digitization and gender equality and how

can technology bridge the gender gap in the

industry?

Digitization increase the scope of both innovation

and creativity and these are critical components

for any organization to become more resilient

in the face of constant change. Gender equity in

this fast changing environment allows different

perspectives to be considered from varying

viewpoints for each challenge and opportunity

faced.

4. What sacrifices have you had to make for your

career as a woman?

None that I can think off.

5. What practical measures can individuals,

companies and society take to support greater

gender balance in the real estate sector?

I believe in being proactive about equal pay for

equal jobs, competitive recruiting across genders

for all job roles, and promotions or succession

based on competence.

6. Are you currently working on any exciting new

projects?

Yes, I am but I will make it public at a later time.

How do you think that will help people and

communities? The project will provide increased

investment opportunities in hospitality real

estate and create new job opportunities for

disadvantaged persons who would typically not be

reached.

7. What is a skill you think all women should learn

and why?

(a) To talk about their successes and

accomplishments instead of playing them

down

(b) Tenacity and grit to stay in the game even when

it gets tough.

8. If you could dine with three inspirational

women, dead or alive, who would they be and

why?

• Margaret Thatcher, former UK Prime Minister

– she achieved what few women would have

managed in her time and paved the way for

female politician’s around the world.

• Mama Ngina Kenyatta, wife of the late Mzee

Jomo Kenyatta and mother of the former

President of Kenya – married at 18 to a man 40

years her senior, she became his 4th wife and

widowed at only 45 years old, yet she quietly

managed to weave an expansive empire. She

embodies the saying, “It is not where you start,

but what you make of the opportunities you

have.”

• Maryanne Musangi, CEO of Haco Industries –

she is making an impact as a female leader and

a great name for herself despite coming from

under the very long shadow of her late father.

9. On international women’s day, what is the most

important advice you can give to women just

starting their real estate careers?

The current world has provided young women

with a vast array of career opportunities unlike

any other time in modern history. Make use of

these opportunities by being clear about your

goals, network widely, learn constantly and face

challenges with tenacity and grit. Do not be afraid

to stumble and fall but be sure to get up and keep

going in order to succeed.

Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector


39

CEO Breakfast Forum

January 31st 2023

Gallery of Events

SILVER SPONSORS

BRONZE SPONSORS

SPONSORS FUEL OUR VISION:

A heartfelt thank you for supporting

our January CEO Breakfast Forum.

Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector


40

Gallery of Events

KPDA Annual Conference

March 23rd 2023

Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector


41

KPDA directory of Members

KPDA Directory of Members

as at 19th April 2023

PROPERTY DEVELOPERS

14TREES KENYA LTD

Regus Vienna Court, Cresent Road

P. O. Box 10921 - 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 0725 132 957

Website: www.14trees.com

ACORN MANAGEMENT SERVICES LTD

2nd Floor, Acorn House

James Gichuru Road, Lavington

P. O. Box 13759 - 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 729 064/5/ 020 592 671

Website: www.acornholdingsafrica.com

ALP MANAGEMENT LTD

ALP West Logistics Park, Tilisi Development,

Ngecha Chunga Rd, Off Nairobi-Nakuru

Highway

Tel: +254 714954103

Website: www.africawarehouses.com

ALVILLE ROYALE

Lavington Mall, 6th floor, NAIROBI.

Tel: +254 722 712 100

Website: www.alvilleroyal.com

AMS PROPERTIES LTD

6th Floor Eden Square, Block 1,

Westlands Road

P. O. Box 10713 - 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 366 0000

Website: www.amsproperties.com

BAHATI RIDGE DEVELOPMENT LTD

Off Gatanga Road, Thika

P. O. Box 47739 – 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 8155380

Website: www.bahatiridge.co.ke

BLUELINE PROPERTIES LTD

Wendy Court Unit 10,

David Osieli Road, Westlands

P.O. Box 2106 - 00606, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 4441195

Website: www.blueline.co.ke

BUILD X STUDIOS

Kyuna Road

P.O. Box 24504 - 00100, NAIROBI.

Website: www.buildxstudio.com

CAMELOT CONSULTANTS LTD

Brookview Apartment

Elgeyo Marakwet Road

P. O. Box 14533 – 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 387 2161

www.lantana-galu-beach.co.ke

CENTURY CITY PROPERTY LTD

The Village Market

PO Box 19 -00621, NAIROBI

VM Tower - 3rd Floor

Tel: +254 7122017

Email: info@centurycitykenya.com

Website: www.centurycitykenya.com

CHIGWELL HOLDINGS LTD

4th Floor Maksons Plaza (Next to Victoria

Courts) Parklands Rd, Westlands

P. O. Box 39542 – 00623, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 3752113/4

Website: www.chigwell.co.ke

CORAL PROPERTY INTERNATIONAL LTD

Peponi Plaza, Office No. B-0

P. O. Box 38568 – 00623, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 3742854

Website: www.coralpi.com

CROSS BOUNDARY EAST AFRICA LTD

11th Floor, Sky Park Plaza

Westlands, Waiyaki Way

P.O Box 14365-00800, NAIROBI.

Tel: +254 705 828 416

Website: www.crossboundary.com

DAYKIO PLANTATIONS LTD

3rd Floor Liaison House,

State House Avenue

P. O. Box 20695 – 00200, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 2215472

Website: www.daykio.com

DMI Kenya Ltd

Westlands Rd, Imperial Court

P.O Box 46402, NAIROBI.

Website: www.dmi.work

FAIRDEAL DEVELOPMENT &

INFRASTRUCTURE LTD

1st Floor, Kelico Complex,

Mombasa Road

P. O. Box 4159 - 00506, NAIROBI.

Tel: 0777 100 050/0705 791 702

Website: www.fairdealproperties.biz

FEDHA (MANAGEMENT) LTD

17th Floor, Eco Bank Towers,

Muindi Mbingu Street

P. O. Box 45625 – 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 2222442/223776/213104

Website: www.fedhagroup.co.ke

GATEWAY REAL ESTATE AFRICA LTD

Kofinaf House, Ngenda Road

Off Ruiru-Githunguri Road, KIAMBU.

Tel: +254721968397

Email: sharon@grit.group

Website: www.grit.group

HASS CONSULT LTD

1st Floor, ABC Place, Waiyaki Way

P. O. Box 14090 – 00800, NAIROBI.

Tel: 0733 708 787

Website: www.hassconsult.co.ke

ISANJI VILLAGE

Limuru Rd, KIAMBU

Tel: +254 702 059857

Website: www.isanji-village.business.site

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42

KPDA directory of Members

KARUME

HOLDINGS

LIMITED

TO JOIN KPDA

JABEZ PROPERTIES

Namanga Road Estate, Off Namanga

Road, Near Export Processing Zone (EPZ)

P. O. Box 23059 - 00604, NAIROBI.

Tel: 0722 788 578

Website: www.jabezproperties.co.ke

KARIBU HOMES

30 Kyuna Crescent

P. O. Box 40063 - 00100 NAIROBI.

Tel: 0705 151 515

Website: www.karibuhomes.com

KARUME HOLDINGS LTD

3rd Floor, Cianda House,

Koinange Street

P. O. Box 30594 – 00100 NAIROBI.

Tel: 0772 099 340

KAYDEE REALTY LLP

Off Mombasa-Nairobi Road, Mikindani,

Behind CMC

P.O. Box 81141-80100, MOMBASA

Tel: +254 (0) 2020 38280 / 1

Email: info@kaydeegroup.com

Website: www.kaydeegroup.com

KINET PROPERTIES COMPANY LTD

Shelter Afrique, Longonot Rd

P.O Box 2816-00200, NAIROBI.

Tel: 0799 566748

Website: www.kinet-solutions.com

KOIBATEK LTD

P.O Box 48183 – 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: +254 721 534 461

KZANAKA LTD

Coopers Centre,

Kaptagat Road off Waiyaki Way

P. O. Box 40596 – 00100

Tel: 020 4452581/2/3

Website: www.coopers.co.ke

LASER PROPERTY SERVICES LTD

6th Floor, CPF House, Haile Selassie Avenue

Kaptagat Road off Waiyaki Way

P. O. Box 28938 - 00200

Tel: 0720 111 117

Website: www.laser.or.ke

LORDSHIP AFRICA

Bishop Court, 4th Ngong Avenue

P. O. Box 47655 – 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 2714726

Website: www.lordshipafrica.com

MANRIK GROUP LTD

Off Raphta Road

P. O. Box 45403 - 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 444 2100

Website: www.manrikgroup.com

METRO CONTRACTORS LTD

Elementaita Road

Off Nakuru – Nairobi Highway, NAKURU

Tel: +254711 534272

Email: info@metroconractors.co.ke

Website: www.metrocontractors.co.ke

MLIMA

CONSTRUCTION

COMPANY LTD

MLIMA CONSTRUCTION LTD

Lillian House

P. O. Box 41821 - 00100 NAIROBI.

Tel: 0724 416 707

Email: kariukimainaus@yahoo.com

MUGUMO DEVELOPMENTS LTD

1st Floor Office Suites,

Parklands Road

P. O. Box 45922 – 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 0701 488 907

NIKO GREEN LTD

Utumishi Co-op House

P.O Box 4892-00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: +254 777 612 841

Website: www.nikogreen.com

NINETY TEN PROPERTIES

Wendy Court, David Osieli Road, NAIROBI

Tel:+254774409010

Email: info@9010properties.co.ke

Website: www.9010properties.co.ke

NATUREVILLE HOMES

Symbion House, Ground Floor

Africa Reit Lane, Off Dagoretti Rd

Next to The Hub, Karen

P. O. Box 47369 - 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 0722 888 271

Website: www.natureville.net

NOVA HOMEBUILDERS

Workstyle, The Address, 7th Floor

Muthangari Dr, Off Waiyaki Way

P.O Box 650 - 00606, NAIROBI.

Tel: +254 705 111 999

Website: www.residency.africa

OPTIVEN LTD

14th Floor, Barclays Plaza Wing A,

Loita Street

P. O. Box 623 – 00600, NAIROBI.

Tel: 0702 831 083

Website: www.optiven.co.ke

PATCH AFRICA HOUSING LIMITED

3rd floor, Liaison House, State House

Avenue, NAIROBI

Tel: +254 703 071 35(4)/5/6

Email: info@patchafrica.net

Website: www.patchafrica.net

PDM (KENYA) LTD

12th Floor, IPS Building, Kimathi Street

P. O. Box 58470 – 00200, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 3316122

Website: www.pdmholdings.com

PRISM RESIDENTIAL LTD

The Courtyard, General Mathenge

P.O. Box 43233 – 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 0721 968 397

Website: www.mividahomes.com

PURPLE DOT INTERNATIONAL LTD

Maruti Heights

P.O.BOX 3787 – 00506, NAIROBI

Tel: +254 733 143 143

Email: info@purpledotint.com

Website: www.purpledotint.com

ROZANA PROPERTIES LTD

Ndemi Road, Kilimani

P. O. Box 3291 - 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 0728 562 578

www.rozanaproperties.co.ke

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KPDA directory of Members

SANGHANI INVESTEMENTS LTD

Centenary House,

Westlands,Nairobi, Kenya

Tel:020 4448133

Email: info@sanghani-inv.co.ke

SAYANI INVESTMENTS LTD

3rd Floor, IPS Building,

P. O. Box 41648 – 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 0726 481 702

Website: www.sayani.co.ke

SCION REAL ESTATE

1st Floor, Regnum Center

Methodist Ministries Center

Oloitoktok Road, Valley Arcade

P.O. Box 10075 – 00100, NAIROBI

Tel: + 254 20 2329412

Website: www.scionreal.com

SIGIMO ENTREPRISES LTD

6th Floor Rhapta Road, New Rehema

Building, Westlands

P. O. Box 66331 – 00800, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 444 7444

Website: www.sigimoenterprises.com

SOMA PROPERTIES LTD

4th Floor, Sarit Centre Westlands

P.O. Box 14474 – 0800, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 3747 408/9

Website: www.saritcentre.com

SQUAREFOOT REAL ESTATE VENTURES LTD

3rd Floor, Southern Tower, Two Rivers

Complex, Limuru Rd, NAIROBI

Tel: +254 739 195 928

Email: sales@squarefoot.co.ke

Website: www.squarefoot.co.ke

SUPERIOR HOMES KENYA LTD

Green Park Estate,

Athi River, Mombasa Road

P. O. Box 15992 – 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 3579100/1

Website: www.superiorhomes.co.ke

TATU CITY LTD

Off Ruiru, Kiambu Road, Ruiru

P. O. Box 2739 - 00621, NAIROBI.

Tel: 0708 555 555

Website: www.tatucity.com

THE EPIC PROPERTIES LTD

Western Heights, Karuna Road,

Westlands

P. O. Box 4872 - 00200, NAIROBI.

Tel: 0792 857 473/4

Website: www.epicproperties.co.ke

THE GODOWN ARTS CENTRE

12 Dunga Road

P.O. Box 27772 – 00506, NAIROBI.

Tel: 0726 992 200

Website: www.thegowdownartscentre.com

TILISI DEVELOPMENTS LTD

4th Floor, Maksons Plaza, Parklands Road

P. O. Box 39542 – 00623, NAIROBI.

Tel: 0714 845 474

Website: www.tilisi.co.ke

TURNER & TOWNSEND

2nd Floor, The Courtyard,

General Mathenge Drive, Westlands

P. O. Box 62899 - 00200, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 232 4991

Website: www.turnerandtownsend.com/

en/mmltt/

TWO RIVERS DEVELOPMENT LTD

9th Floor South Tower, Two Rivers Mall,

P. O. Box 10518 - 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 228 6160

Website: www.centum.co.ke

UNITY HOMES LTD

Shanzu Gardens,

P. O. Box 933 – 00621, NAIROBI.

Tel: 0707 662 250

Website: www.unityhomes.co.ke

VISHWA DEVELOPERS LTD

Kenyatta Road, Nyali

P.O. Box 98612-80100, MOMBASA

Tel: +254 41 2009275

Email: projectsadmin.ke@dgpropertiesltd.com

Website: www.dawdagroup.com

WOOD PRODUCTS KENYA LTD

69 Enterprise Road

P.O. Box 18009 – 00500 NAIROBI

Tel: 0728 976 780

Website: www.woodproducts.kenya.co.ke

REAL ESTATE MANAGERS / AGENTS

AMG REALTORS LTD

AMG Centre, 3rd Floor, Thika

Superhighway (Off Exit 7), Garden Estate

Road, Opp Garden City Mall

P.O Box: 565-00618, NAIROBI.

Tel: + 254 796 888 555

Website: www.amgrealtors.com

AXIS REAL ESTATE LTD

The Rahimtulla Tower, No 8,

Upper Hill Road

P. O. Box 10730 - 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 2724848

Website: www.axisre.co.ke

BROLL KENYA LTD

Ground Floor, Westlands Office Park -

Acacia Block, Waiyaki Way, Westlands

P. O. Box 52727 – 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 3742766

Website: www.broll.co.ke

JONES LANG LASALLE (PTY) LTD (JLL)

Sanlam Tower 4th Floor,

Waiyaki Way, Nairobi

Tel: +254 (0) 709 324 324

Website: www.jll.co.za

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KPDA directory of Members

PROPTECHS

KNIGHT FRANK KENYA LTD

Ground Floor, Lions Place, Waiyaki Way

P. O. Box 39773 - 00623 NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 4239000

Website: www.knightfrank.com

RISIIH INVESTMENTS LTD

Western Heights, Westlands, NAIROBI

Tel: +254 723 621889

Email: info@risiihinvestments.co.ke

Website: www.risiihinvestments.co.ke

VILLASOFT LTD

P.O.BOX 10253-00400

4th Floor Royal Offices, 26 Mogotio Road,

Westlands, NAIROBI

Website: www.smartkodi.co.ke

TO JOIN KPDA

PROFESSIONAL FIRMS / ADVISORY SERVICE PROVIDERS / LAW FIRMS

ANJARWALLA & KHANNA ADVOCATES

ALN House, Eldama Ravine Close,

Off Eldama Ravine Road

P. O. Box 200 - 00606, NAIROBI.

Tel: 0203 640 000/ 0703 032 000/0203 640 201

Website: www.africalegalnetwork.com

ASHITIVA ADVOCATES LLP

Victoria Towers, 1st Floor,

Kilimanjaro Ave, Upperhill

P.O. Box 21372 – 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: +254 722 764 732

Website: ashitivaadvocates.com

CM ADVOCATES LLP

I&M Bank House, 7th Floor,

2nd Ngong Avenue

P.O. Box 21372 – 00100, NAIROBI

Tel: +254 716 209 673

Website: www.cmadvocates.com

COULSON HARNEY LLP

5th Floor, ICEA Lion Centre, West Wing,

Riverside Park, Chiromo Road

P. O. Box 10643 - 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 2899000

Website: www.bowmanslaw.com

DENTONS (HAMILTON HARRISSON &

MATHEWS)

1st Floor, Delta Office Suites,

Waiyaki Way,

P.O. Box 30333-00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: +254 703 068000

Website: www.dentonshhm.com

FIDEL MWAKI & CO ADVOCATES

Kalson Towers, 2nd Floor, The Crescent,

Off Parklands Rd, NAIROBI

Tel: +254 725 762784

Website: www.fmcadvocates.com

G&A ADVOCATES LLP

Avenue 5 Building, 4th Floor

Rose Avenue, Off Lenana Road

P.O. Box 22966 – 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: +254 719 851 555

Website: www.gallp.co.ke

IRURA

NGUCHUGA & CO.

ADVOCATES

IRURA NGUCHUGA & CO. ADVOCATES

CVS Plaza, 2nd Floor, Kasuku Road off

Lenana Road

P.O. Box 23193-00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: +254 725 035 780 +254 745 979 421

Email: accounts@inguchuga.com

ISEME KAMAU & MAEMA ADVOCATES

IKM Place, Tower A, 1st Floor, 5th Ngong

Avenue, Off Bishops Road, NAIROBI

Tel: +254 722 898 393

Website: www.dlapiperafrica.com/kenya

KARANJA NJENGA AND COMPANY

ADVOCATES

3rd Floor, Surveyors Court,

Woodvale Grove, Westlands

P. O. Box 1775 - 00606, NAIROBI.

Tel: 0725 452 889

Website: www.knjenga.co.ke

KIETI LAW LLP (CDH KENYA)

Merchant Square, 3rd floor,

Block D, Riverside Drive, Kilimani

NAIROBI

Tel: +254 710 560114

Email: cdhkenya@cdhlegal.com

KN LAW LLP

5th Floor, The Pavilion, Westlands

P. O. Box 52494 – 00200, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 3861305

Website: www.kn.co.ke

LJA ASSOCIATES LLP

3rd Floor,Cavendish Block

14 Riverside, Riverside Drive

P. O. Box 49594 - 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 4441316

Website: www.ljaassociates.org

MMC ASAFO

MMC Arches Springs Valley Crescent,

Off Peponi Road

P. O. Box 75362 - 00200, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 2167301/2

Website: www.mmcasafo.com

MOHAMMED MUIGAI ADVOCATES

MM Chambers, 4th Floor,

K-Rep Centre, Wood Avenue, Off

Lenana Road, Kilimani

P.O Box 61323-00200, NAIROBI.

Tel: +254 20 2397401

Website: www.mohammedmuigai.com

MUTUNGI KITHINJI & Co ADVOCATES

AACC Building, 1st Floor Suite 8,

Along Waiyaki Way,

Opposite Safaricom House, NAIROBI

Email: info@kklegal.co.ke

Tel: +254 759 334 321

Website: www.kklegal.co.ke

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KPDA directory of Members

TAIBJEE & BHALLA ADVOCATES LLP

The Address,

10th Floor, Muthangari Drive, NAIROBI

Tel: +254-20-2351555

Email: info@tandbadvocates.com

Website: www.tandbadvocates.com

WAINAINA IRERI ADVOCATES

Laiboni Centre, 5th Floor,

Lenana Road, Kilimani,

P.O.Box: 42706 - 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: +254 726 063 365

Website: www.wainainaireri.co.ke

WAMAE & ALLEN

Top Plaza, 3rd Floor Kindaruma Road,

Off Ngong Road

P.O Box 4132-00200, NAIROBI

Tel: +254202176402/3

Website: www.wamaeallen.com

TO JOIN KPDA

ARCHITECTURAL FIRMS

PROJECT MANAGERS

BOOGERTMAN AND PARTNERS

ARCHITECTS LTD

Allianz Plaza, 96 Riverside Drive, Nairobi

P.O. Box 2047 – 00606, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 440 8990 / 0736 399 361

Website: www.boogertmanandpartners.com

BUY RENT KENYA LTD

5th Floor, Grosvenor Building

14 Riverside Drive

P. O. Box 580777 – 00200 NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 2307051

Website: www.buyrentkenya.com

GLOBAL PROPERTY ADVICE

St Petersburg

P. O. Box 42882 - 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 0718 920 995

Website: www.globalpropertyadvice.com

ASSOCIATIONS

INTERIOR DESIGNERS

SURVEYORS

REITS ASSOCIATION OF KENYA (RAK)

55 Westlands Road

P. O. Box 43633 - 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 2831 000

Website: www.rak.co.ke

CLASSIC MOULDINGS LTD

Kellicoo Complex, Mombasa Road

P. O. Box 3936 - 00506, NAIROBI.

Tel: 0721 123 123

Website: www.classic-mouldings.com

SAJ CERAMICS LTD

Mombasa Road, Opp Doshi Hardware

P. O. Box 45244 - 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 3587001/2/3/4

Website: www.sajceramics.com

ECOPLAN KENYA LTD

SK Offices, Rhapta Rd, Suite B3

P.O Box: 134-00502, NAIROBI.

Tel: +254 721683 899

Website: www.ecoplankenya.co.ke

EPS PANEL

MANUFACTURERS

ROOFING PRODUCT

SUPPLIERS

ALUMINIUM

FORMWORK

SUPPLIERS

GEOSURVEYS & GEOSPATIAL

INFORMATION LTD

Flamingo Towers, Upperhill

P.O Box 40618 - 00100, NAIROBI

Tel: +254 794 338 133

Website: www.geosurveysandgeospatialinfo.

co.ke

CEMEX HOLDINGS LTD

Ruiru Kenya

P. O. Box 45155 - 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 0722 464 433

Website: www.cmax.co.ke

MABATI ROLLING MILLS LTD

A 104, Athi River, Kenya

P. O. Box 271 – 00204, NAIROBI.

Tel: 0722 205 396/0722 205 397/0722 261 299

Website: www.mabati.com

KUMKANG KIND EAST AFRICA LTD

The Mirage, Office 15A,

Chiromo Road, Westlands

P. O. Box 51034 – 00200, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 250082/0714 078 661/0721 335 749

Website: kumkangkind.com

BUILDING MATERIAL MANUFACTURERS

CAPITAL BLOCKS AND PAVERS LTD

Kisaju, along Namanga Road

P.O. Box 102438 - 00101, NAIROBI.

Tel: 0768 468 064

Website: www.capitalblocks.com

GATSBY AFRICA

14 Riverside Drive

Hannover Block, 1st Floor, Suite A

P.O. Box 41472- 00100, NAIROBI

Tel: +254 204 443 455

Website: www.gatsbyafrica.org.uk

KONE EAST AFRICA LTD

Crowne Plaza Annexe, 13th Floor

Along Kenya Road

P.O. Box 35174-00100, NAIROBI

Tel: +254 709823000

Website: www.kone.co.ke

MAPEI EAST AFRICA LTD

14th Riverside, 6th Floor,

Grosvenor Building, NAIROBI

Tel: +254 709 045 000

Website: www.mapei.co.ke

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KPDA directory of Members

CONTRACTOR

FIRMS

ENERGY SAVINGS SOLUTIONS

QUESTWORKS

Questworks Place, Makueni Road and

Vihiga Road Junction, Kileleshwa

P. O. Box 25520 - 00603, NAIROBI.

Tel: 0724 583 351

Website: www.questworks.co.ke

DAVIS AND SHIRTLIFF LTD

Dundori Road, Industrial Area

P. O. Box 41762 – 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 6968000

Website: www.davisandshirtliff.com

AGC MIDDLE & EAST AFRICA FZCO

No.541 , 6WB, Dubai Airport Free-

Zone, UAE, DUBAI.

Tel: +971 54 464 0101

Website: www.agcfzc.com

CUMMINS CARGEN

New Cargen House

Lusaka Road, Industrial Area

P. O. Box 20001 - 00200, NAIROBI

Tel: +254 20 6943000/100

Email: info@cargen.com

Website: www.cargen.com/cummins

FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS/MORTGAGE BANKS

BRITAM

P.O. Box: 30375-00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: +254 705 100 100

Website: ke.britam.com

CENTRE FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING

FINANCE IN AFRICA

P.O Box 72624-2122

Parkview, South Africa

Tel: +27 (0) 11 447 9581

Email: info@housingfinanceafrica.org

Website: www.housingfinanceafrica.org

FSD KENYA

Green Suites Palm Suite,

Riverside, Riverside Drive

P.O. Box 11353-00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: +254 20 513 7300

Website: www.fsdkenya.org

FUSION CAPITAL LTD

Ground Floor, ACK Garden House, Block A

P. O. Box 47538 - 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 2710149/53

Website:www.fusioncapitalafrica.com

GOVERNMENT

INSTITUTIONS

ILAM FAHARI I-REIT

ICEA LION Centre, Riverside Park,

Chiromo Road, Westlands

P.O. Box 46143-00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: +254 721 284 297

Website: www.ilamfahariireit.com

INTERNATIONAL HOUSING

SOLUTIONS (HIS-KENYA) LTD

Eden Square Complex, Block 1,

7th Floor, Westlands Road, NAIROBI.

Tel: +254 742142142

Website: www.ihsinvestments.co.za

NCBA Bank Kenya PLC

Mara and Ragati Roads, Upper Hill, Nairobi

P. O. Box 30437 - 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 2884648

Website: www.ncbagroup.com

STATE DEPARTMENT FOR HOUSING

AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT

Ardhi House, 1st Ngong Avenue

P. O. Box 30450 – 00100, NAIROBI.

Tel: 020 2713833

Website: www.lands.go.ke

Associate Bronze Members

1. Peter Kibugi

2. Arshad Alibhai

3. Lillian Mbaabu

4. Lorraine Odhiambo

5. Irene Kiwool

6. Miriam Kanya

7. Abde Imranali

8. Samantha Muna

9. Sarah Mbwaya

10. Lucy Mwangi

In order to join KPDA, kindly contact the Membership Relations Officer,

Yvonne Ndegwa through the telephone number 0737 530 290 or 0725 286 689

or by email ceo@kpda.or.ke.

Adopting a Long-term Perspective in the Real Estate Sector


CALENDAR

OF EVENTS

2023

Kenya Property Developers

Association is the Representative

Body of the Residential, Commercial

and Industrial Property Development

Sector in Kenya.

For more information please contact the secretariat on 0725 286 689/0737 530 290

JANUARY

MARCH

APRIL

APRIL

MAY

KPDA CEO BREAKFAST

FORUM

Theme: The Real Estate

Industry: Impact of

Government Regulations

on the Business

Environment

Date: Tuesday, 31st

January 2023

Time: 7.00am - 10.30am

Venue: Park Inn by

Radisson, Westlands

THE KPDA ANNUAL

CONFERENCE

Theme: Re-Imagining

the Future of the Real

Estate Sector

Date: Thursday, 23rd

March 2023

Time: 8.00am - 5.00pm

Venue: Radisson Blu

Upper Hill, Nairobi

KPDA/BUILD X

STUDIOS WORKSHOP,

CLT PROTOTYPE VISIT

Date: Thursday, 20th

April 2023

Time: 9:00am -

10:30am

Venue: Kyuna Road

KPDA/MRM MORNING

LEARNING SESSION

Theme: Steel Strong:

Navigating Steel

Cost Fluctuations

without Compromising

Quality.

Date: Thursday, 27th

April 2023

Time: 7.30am – 11.00am

Venue: Mabati

Rolling Mills Offices

(Syokimau)

EAST AFRICAN PROPERTY

INVESTMENT SUMMIT

Theme: Dynamic Frontiers

Date: Wednesday 17 &

Thursday 18 May 2023

Time: 8.00am - 5.00pm

Venue: Radisson Blu Upper

Hill, Nairobi

Sponsorship

Opportunities Available

MAY

JUNE

JUNE

JULY

AUGUST

KPDA/IFC EDGE

CERTIFICATION

DISCOVERY WORKSHOP

Date: Wednesday 31st

May 2023

Time: 9:00am -12:00pm

Venue: World Bank

Group Office-Delta

Centre, Upperhill Hill,

Nairobi

11TH KPDA AGM &

KPDA MID-YEAR

CORPORATE

NETWORKING

(KOROGA) EVENT

Date: Friday, 9th June

Time: 6.00pm

onwards

Venue: Virtual &

Physical

KPDA HALF DAY

WORKSHOP

Theme: TBC

Date: Tuesday 27th

June 2023

Time: 8.00am -

1.00pm

Venue: TBD

KPDA MORNING

LEARNING SESSION

Theme: TBC

Date: Tuesday 20th

July 2023

Time: 7.30a.m -

10.30am

Venue: TBD

KPDA HALF DAY

WORKSHOP

Theme: TBC

Date: Tuesday 22nd

August 2023

Time: 8:00am - 1:00pm

Venue: TBC

Sponsorship

Opportunities Available

Sponsorship

Opportunities Available

Sponsorship

Opportunities Available

Sponsorship

Opportunities Available

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

KPDA ONLINE

WEBINAR

Theme: TBC

Date: Wednesday

30th August 2023

Time: 9.00am -

10:30am

Venue: Zoom

KPDA CEO

BREAKFAST FORUM

Theme: TBC

Date: Thursday 28th

September 2023

Venue: TBC

KPDA HALF DAY

WORKSHOP

Theme: TBC

Date: Tuesday, 24th

October 2023

Time: 8.00am - 11.30am

Venue: TBD

KPDA ONLINE

WEBINAR

Theme: TBC

Date: Thursday, 9th

November 2023

Time: 10.00am -

11.30am

Venue: Zoom

END OF YEAR

KPDA CORPORATE

NETWORKING EVENT

Theme: TBC

Date: Friday, 1st

December 2023

Time: 6.00pm onwards

Venue: TBD

Sponsorship

Opportunities Available

Sponsorship

Opportunities Available

Sponsorship

Opportunities Available

Sponsorship

Opportunities Available

Sponsorship

Opportunities Available

Kenya Property Developers Association

@KPDA_Ke

Kenya Property Developers Association


DESCRIPTION OF KPDA EVENTS

KPDA WEBINARS

About the Event: Discussion on policy as well as

local and global real estate trends

Event Organizer: Kenya Property Developers

Association

Event Timing: 11.00am – 12.00noon

Target Audience: High level management/

decision makers from KPDA membership

Target Number: 80 – 100 pax

Registration/Attendance Fees (Exclusive of

VAT):

• NO CHARGE

Sponsorship Opportunities Available

KPDA LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT

SYMPOSIUMS

About the Event: Discussion on policy matters

and advocacy of real estate issues

Event Organizer: Kenya Property Developers

Association

Event Timing: 7.30am – 9.30am/7.30am 11.00am

Target Audience: High level management/

decision makers from KPDA membership

Target Number: 30 – 40 pax

• NO CHARGE

Sponsorship Opportunities Available

KPDA WORKSHOPS/CAPACITY BUILDING

PROGRAM

About the Program: Scaling up Affordable

Housing Development in Nairobi through

Capacity Building, Partnerships and Financial

Linkages

Program Organizer: The KPDA Affordable

Housing Task Force

Timing: 9.30am – 1.00pm

Target Audience: Developers, professionals,

policy makers, financiers and other investors

Target Number: 50 – 60 pax

Registration/Attendance Fees (Exclusive of

VAT):

• TBC

Sponsorship Opportunities Available

KPDA CONFERENCE

About the Event: Exchange of information

through presentations made by expert speakers

Event Organizer: Kenya Property Developers

Association

Event Timing: 8.30am – 4.30pm

Target Audience: Public and KPDA membership

Target Number: 180 – 200 pax

Registration/Attendance Fees (Exclusive of

VAT):

• TBC

Sponsorship Opportunities Available

OUR PARTNERS


KPDA WEBINARS SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

GOLD SPONSOR: KSHS.100,000

SILVER SPONSOR: KSHS.50,000

BENEFITS

Recognition: Sponsor recognition during four (4)

live webinars.

Complimentary Advertisement Opportunities:

• Your organization’s name and logo shall be

included in all marketing material developed for

four (4) webinars.

• KPDA Website: You will receive complimentary

advertising space on the KPDA website for a

period of two (2) months.

• The KPDA Media Weekly Review Report: You

will have the opportunity to be featured in four

(4) issues of the KPDA Media Weekly Review

Report.

• KPDA Social Media Platforms: You will

receive brand exposure on all our social media

platforms of Facebook, Twitter and Linkedin

during the period of marketing the webinars.

• Circulation of four (4) articles of your choice to

our members for the period of one (1) month.

• A recording of the session will feature on the

KPDA website as well as all our social media

platforms.

You may also contribute to the webinar content by

nominating a representative from your organization

as a panelist, as well as suggesting panelists you

may wish to be a part of the webinar.

You will also receive the List of Participants and

their contacts.

BENEFITS

Recognition: Sponsor recognition during one (1)

live webinar.

Complimentary Advertisement Opportunities:

• Your organization’s name and logo shall be

included in all marketing material developed for

one (1) webinar.

• KPDA Website: You will receive complimentary

advertising space on the KPDA website for a

period of one (1) month.

• The KPDA Media Weekly Review Report: You

will have the opportunity to be featured in two

(2) issues of the KPDA Media Weekly Review

Report.

• KPDA Social Media Platforms: You will

receive brand exposure on all our social media

platforms of Facebook, Twitter and Linkedin

during the period of marketing the webinar.

• Circulation of two (2) articles of your choice to

our members for the period of two (2) weeks.

• A recording of the session will feature on the

KPDA website as well as all our social media

platforms.

You may also contribute to the webinar content by

nominating a representative from your organization

as a panelist, as well as suggesting panelists you

may wish to be a part of the webinar.

You will also receive the List of Participants and

their contacts.

CONTENT SPONSOR: KSHS.30,000

PANEL SPONSOR: KSHS.10,000

BENEFITS

Recognition: Sponsor recognition during one (1)

live webinar.

Complimentary Advertisement Opportunities:

• Your organization’s name and logo shall be

included in all marketing material developed for

one (1) webinar.

• The KPDA Media Weekly Review Report: You

will have the opportunity to be featured in one

(1) issue of the KPDA Media Weekly Review

Report.

• KPDA Social Media Platforms: You will

receive brand exposure on all our social media

platforms of Facebook, Twitter and Linkedin

during the period of marketing the webinar.

• A recording of the session will feature on the

KPDA website as well as all our social media

platforms.

You will also receive the List of Participants and

their contacts.

BENEFITS

Opportunity to nominate a representative from your

organization as a panelist

You will receive brand exposure on all our social

media platforms of Facebook, Twitter and Linkedin

during the period of marketing the webinar.

Your organization’s name and logo shall be included

in all marketing material developed for one (1)

webinar.

Brand and logo exposure to KPDA social media

Platforms Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter

You will also receive the List of Participants and

their contacts.


GENERAL SPONSORSHIP CATEGORIES

AND BENEFITS

PLATINUM: KSHS.500,000/=

BENEFITS:

Event Brochure: Your organization’s name will

appear in all brochures (if produced).

Newspaper Advertisements: Your organization

will get prominent sponsor name recognition

in all event press releases if published.

Event Program and Announcement: Your

organization’s name will be listed in the event’s

program and will be recognized as a sponsor.

Complimentary Advertisements:

• KPDA Website: Your organization’s name

will be listed on the KPDA website as a

sponsor for the period of one (1) year

• The Developer’s Digest: Complimentary

advertisement in one issue of the KPDA

E-Newsletter, The Developer’s Digest

The opportunity to include literature at the

event and get two (2) tables to display your

organization’s products

Branding within and outside the room

Opportunity for a presentation

Complimentary attendance of six (6) staff

representatives

BRONZE: KSHS.100,000/=

GOLD: KSHS.350,000/=

BENEFITS:

Complimentary KPDA Website Advertisement:

Your organization’s name will be listed on the

KPDA website as an event sponsor for the period

of marketing the event

Event Announcement: Your organization will be

recognized as a sponsor.

Complimentary attendance of three (3) staff

representatives

Branding within and outside the room

Opportunity for a presentation

One table to display products

SILVER: KSHS.200,000/=

BENEFITS:

Complimentary Website Advertisements: Your

organization’s name will be listed on the KPDA

website as an event sponsor for the period of

marketing the event

Branding within and outside the room

Opportunity for a presentation

Complimentary attendance of two (2) staff

representatives

BENEFITS:

Branding outside the room

Mention as a sponsor

Complimentary attendance of one (1) staff

representative

Why Should You Partner with KPDA?

Attendance at our events ranges from between 60 to

150 participants drawn from both our membership,

non-members and our partners

All our events are professionally managed, well

organized with industry experience and a proven

platform for engagement

Access to expert content and speakers from both the

industry and its stakeholder organizations

Opportunity for networking with like-minded building

and construction professionals

Provision of excellent business development platforms

for your company to receive exposure

Further exposure for your brand through the various

media channels

Access to information that will bridge the gap between

your company and the rest of Kenya


THE 2023 KPDA CONFERENCE - SPONSORSHIP

CATEGORIES AND BENEFITS

PLATINUM SPONSOR: KSHS. 700, 000 (VAT EXCL.) (1 COMPANY)

BENEFITS:

Recognition as a KPDA Principle Sponsor during

all KPDA events in 2020

Event Program and Announcement: Your

organization’s name will be listed in the event’s

program, recognized as the Principal Sponsor and

included in the event marketing materials.

Complimentary Advertisements:

• KPDA Website: Your organization’s name

will be listed in the event banner published

for the event and your company will receive

complimentary advertising space on the KPDA

website as a Principal Sponsor for the period

of one (1) year

• The Developer’s Digest: Complimentary two

(2) paged advertisement (plus 1 page for

an editorial) in two (2) future issues of The

Developer’s Digest

Opportunity to address the audience (20 minutes)

Opportunity to be a part of one of the Panel

Sessions

Opportunity to lead one of the Break-out Sessions

Strategic branding within and outside the room

(specifics to be advised)

Strategic exhibition table outside the room

(specifics to be advised)

Branding at the eating area

Opportunity to distribute promotional items to

delgates

Complimentary attendance of seven (7) staff

representatives (includes representative making

the company’s presentation)

Display of logo in the conference program

Delegates listing

MERCHANDISE SPONSOR : KSHS. 500, 000

(VAT EXCL.) (1 COMPANY)

Sponsor may either provide the merchandise cobranded

or contribute the equivalent for production

BENEFITS:

Event Program and Announcement: Your

organization’s name will be listed in the event’s

program, recognized as a sponsor and included

in the event marketing materials.

Complimentary Advertisement:

• KPDA Website: Your organization’s logo will

be included in the event banner published in

the KPDA website

• The Developer’s Digest: Complimentary one

(1) paged advertisement in one future issues

of The Developer’s Digest

Complimentary attendance of 5 staff

representatives

Opportunity to address the audience (10

minutes)

Strategic exhibition table outside the room

(specifics to be advised)

Branding at the eating area (specifics to be

advised)

Branding within and outside the room (specifics

to be advised)

Opportunity to distribute promotional items to

guests

Display of logo in the conference program

Delegates listing

DIAMOND SPONSOR: KSHS. 500, 000

(VAT EXCL.) (1 COMPANY)

BENEFITS:

Event Program and Announcement: Your

organization’s name will be listed in the event’s

program, recognized as a sponsor and included

in the event marketing materials.

Complimentary Advertisements:

• KPDA Website: Your organization’s logo will

be included in the event banner published in

the KPDA website

• The Developer’s Digest: Complimentary

one paged advertisement in one future issue

of The Developer’s Digest

Opportunity to be part of the panel

Opportunity to be part of the break out session

Branding within and outside the room (specifics

to be advised)

Strategic exhibition space outside the room

(specifics to be advised)

Branding at the eating area (specifics to be

advised)

Complimentary attendance of five (5) staff

representatives

Delegates listing


THE 2023 KPDA CONFERENCE - SPONSORSHIP

CATEGORIES AND BENEFITS

COCKTAIL SPONSOR: KSHS. 300, 000

(VAT EXCL.) (1 COMPANY)

BRONZE SPONSOR: KSHS. 100, 000

(VAT EXCL.) (OPEN)

BENEFITS:

Event Program and Announcement: Your

organization’s name will be listed in the event’s

program, recognized as a sponsor and included in

the event marketing materials

Branding outside the room (specifics to be

advised)

Exhibition table outside the room (specifics to be

advised)

Exclusive branding in the cocktail area (specifics to

be advised)

Complimentary attendance of three (3) staff

representatives

Opportunity to distribute promotional items to

guests at the cocktail event

Delegates listing

BENEFITS:

Event Program and Announcement: Your

organization’s name will be listed in the event’s

program, recognized as a sponsor and included in

the event marketing materials

Limited branding outside the room (specifics to be

advised)

Exhibition table outside the room

Complimentary attendance of two (2) staff

representatives

Delegates listing

PANEL SPONSOR: KSHS. 50, 000

(VAT EXCL.) (2 COMPANIES)

BENEFITS:

Event Program and Announcement: Your

organization’s name will be listed in the event’s

program, recognized as a sponsor and included in

the event marketing materials

Opportunity to be part of the panel discussions

(specifics to be advised)

Limited branding inside the room (specifics to be

advised)

Complimentary attendance of one (1) staff

representative

@KPDA_Ke

Kenya Property Developers Association

Kenya Property Developers Association

kpda_ke

Kenya Property Developers Association

Fatima Flats, Suite 4 B, Marcus Garvey Road, Off Argwings Kodhek Road, Kilimani Area

P. O. Box 76154 - 00508, Nairobi, Kenya

Tel: +254 725 286 689 / 737 530 290

www.kpda.or.ke


KPDA/IFC EDGE

CERTIFICATION

DISCOVERY

WORKSHOP

THEME

Building Green, Building

for the Future: Unleashing

Investment Opportunities

with EDGE-Certified Buildings.

DATE

Wednesday, 31st May 2023

VENUE

World Bank Group Office - Delta

Centre, Upperhill

TIME

9:00a.m -12:00p.m

KEY TOPICS

1. Green building definitions.

2. Sizing the investment

potential.

3. Live demo of the EDGE

software.

4. Incremental cost and ROI for

EDGE certified projects.

5. Case studies of EDGE certified

projects.

6. EDGE Experts and EDGE

Auditors.

7. Ways governments

can incentivize green

construction.

FREE MEMBERS

ONLY EVENT

Kenya Property Developers Association

@KPDA_Ke

Kenya Property Developers Association

For more information on the event,

kindly reach out to the KPDA secretariat

on telephone 0737 530 290 or 0725 286 689 or

by email to membership@kpda.or.ke

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