gradadev – East African Modern Builder Magazine

July 8, 2025 - In Construction By gradadev 0

Cost-Effective EPS Technology Revolutionizes Construction in Kenya

In Kenya, real estate developers are increasingly turning to innovative construction methods to address the mounting costs of building projects while upholding structural quality. Among these pioneering techniques is the utilization of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) construction, a process that involves the assembly of houses by incorporating EPS panels sandwiched between steel wire mesh and enveloped with concrete on both sides. EPS panels, composed of solid beads of polystyrene, are produced in a factory and then transported to the construction site for assembly, significantly curbing material wastage and thereby reducing costs. A typical 100-square-meter, two-bedroom house requires approximately 70 panels, each weighing 15 kilograms, which means an entire house can be transported in a single lorry load. Construction Efficiency According to Kenrick Miako, a director at Mikooh Exquisite Ltd., a company that has successfully utilized EPS panels in the construction of flats in Rongai, this innovative technology has allowed them to slash their construction expenses by 25% while halving the construction timeline. Miako emphasizes, “This technology not only reduces labor costs and construction time but also demands less reinforcement due to its lightweight nature. Additionally, it offers savings in the foundation phase.” These lightweight panels are employed in erecting walls, stairways, floors, and perimeter walls. Bricks are only used in the foundation, with EPS panels taking over from there up to the slab, resulting in superior structures and enabling high-quality finishes. Multi-Story Structures Remarkably, despite their lightness, modular houses built with EPS technology are robust enough to withstand natural disasters more effectively than those constructed with traditional materials. EPS technology can be extended to the construction of buildings up to 20 stories high. Mike Juma, an engineering technologist at the National Housing Corporation (NHC), explains, “Buildings collapse primarily due to their own weight. EPS is exceptionally lightweight and possesses a superior strength-to-weight ratio compared to conventional building blocks.” With a 35mm concreting of EPS panels and 15mm plaster finishes on both sides of the wall, the result is a thickness equivalent to a standard 9×9 building block. Juma further states that a four-story building without columns or a double wall panel project ranging from 11 to 20 stories without columns can be accomplished. “For buildings with frame structures,” he adds, “the height can be virtually limitless as EPS panels can be used as filler materials.” In 2011, NHC established an EPS panel manufacturing facility in Mavoko, Machakos County, and has since employed EPS technology in the construction of residential flats nationwide. They have also collaborated with private investors across the country who have adopted this cost-effective technology. Construction Costs Regarding the cost of EPS building technology in Kenya, Juma notes that panels are produced in various modules and variations of wall and slab panels, each with differing price points. For instance, a builder can construct a wall using EPS panels for approximately KES 1,800 per square meter and a slab for about KES 2,350 per square meter. This translates to approximately KES 600,000 for a studio flat and around KES 1.5 million for a standard two-bedroom house. While the adoption of EPS panels as a construction method is relatively new in Kenya, it has been widely utilized in developed countries for years due to its durability, lightweight nature, ease of installation, and cost-saving advantages. Other benefits include thermal insulation, maintaining comfortable temperatures, high resistance to fire and other hazards, and structures that are soundproof and impervious to termites, rodents, and other pests due to the material’s lack of nutritional value. Drawbacks Nevertheless, one notable drawback of EPS technology is that polystyrene is an oil-based product that isn’t easily recyclable on an industrial scale. Consequently, EPS foam waste often finds its way into the environment, where it remains non-degradable, breaking down into harmful particles over time, posing risks to both humans and animals.

July 8, 2025 - In Uncategorized By gradadev 0

Naivasha: The Rising Star in Kenyan Investments

By Majangah Larmy Naivasha is swiftly emerging as the next frontier for investors, both local and international, who are eager to seize the opportunities this charming town has to offer. The recent surge in investment interest can be attributed to the town’s remarkable growth and enhanced infrastructure, which has attracted a multitude of developers and homeowners. Established in the 1980s by Joseph Thomson, Naivasha possesses a unique combination of key assets that beckon investors. These include access to cost-effective geothermal power, abundant and affordable land, and its strategic proximity to Nairobi. These factors have ignited a rush among investors to make their mark in this promising region. The extension of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) line from Nairobi to Naivasha has further elevated the town’s significance as a trade hub. This development facilitates the efficient transportation of cargo from the port city of Mombasa to Naivasha, significantly boosting trade and commerce in the area. Abundant and Affordable Land In Naivasha, acquiring vast tracts of land is a hassle-free endeavor, a stark contrast to major cities where land scarcity poses significant challenges. Naivasha presents minimal legal hurdles for developers, and its proximity to Nairobi only adds to its allure as an investment destination. Geothermal Power Advantage Naivasha’s geothermal power plant has considerably lowered energy costs, making it an attractive destination for investors. The ready availability of energy has spurred the growth of various industrial activities in the region. Home to notable companies like Roka Industries (electricity cable manufacturer), Plantec Limited (Kenya’s leading producer of fruit and vegetable seedlings), Keroche Breweries, and Mashwa Breweries, Naivasha offers all the essential ingredients for large-scale industrial success: land, water, and power. Tabitha Karanja, the Managing Director of Keroche Breweries, once noted that Naivasha provides a conducive environment for thriving industries, citing the area’s abundance of land, water, and power. Rising Tourism Hub Naivasha has transformed into a bustling hub for businesses and conferences, ranking second only to Mombasa as a tourist destination, according to the Ministry of Tourism. The town boasts a range of high-end hotels, such as the Lake Naivasha Spa and the Enashipai Resort Lodge, making it an ideal destination for tourists. With its serene atmosphere compared to the bustling Nairobi, it has become the preferred choice for many Nairobi residents. Notable attractions include Lake Naivasha, Hell’s Gate National Park, and a vibrant ornithological spectacle featuring approximately 400 bird species. Flourishing Flower Farms Home to over 50 flower farms, including names like Finlays, V-D Berg, and Longonot Horticulture, Naivasha’s flower industry draws water from the nearby Lake Naivasha and provides employment to over 60,000 workers. Industrial Parks and Expansion The government’s allocation of 1,000 acres of land for the Naivasha Industrial Park, located just a short distance from Mai Mahiu town, has paved the way for significant growth in the region’s flower business. This expansion has resulted in the transformation of the park into a multi-billion-dollar seedlings plant, along with the establishment of seven flower farms. Holiday Homes in Demand Naivasha’s appeal extends to the flourishing holiday home market, attracting various types of travelers seeking comfortable, affordable, and private accommodations. Changes in spending habits among tourists have fueled the demand for holiday homes, as they offer a more cost-effective and personalized alternative to traditional hotels. Airbnb and similar short-stay platforms have revolutionized the market, making holiday homeowners a prime choice for many travelers. This shift in preferences has created a substantial market for holiday landlords and landladies. In Kenya, Naivasha, along with the coastal region, has seen a surge in holiday home offerings. Northlake Breeze Estate Naivasha was conceived to cater to the rising demand among holiday homeowners keen to tap into this growing market.

July 8, 2025 - In Construction‚ Interior Design By gradadev 0

Interior Design: Crafting a Cohesive and Inviting Home Atmosphere

Delving into the world of interior design unveils the transformative power that carefully curated spaces wield in shaping the ambiance of a home. Beyond the structural confines, the art of interior décor is an intricate dance that blends personal flair with design principles, elevating living spaces into sanctuaries of style and comfort. Whether you’re the proud owner of a dwelling or customizing a rental space, the quest for personalization remains a common thread, driving the desire to infuse every nook and cranny with individuality. According to Pence Engoyi, a seasoned professional at the helm of A Plus Interiors Limited, the linchpin of successful interior design lies in understanding and embracing the client’s unique style. Engoyi emphasizes the importance of choosing a design style that resonates with the individual, offering an array of options from classical and modern to rustic and afro-modern. This conscious selection, termed the ‘design style,’ becomes the guiding force, ensuring coherence and unity throughout a particular room. Diversity in design is encouraged, with Engoyi suggesting that different styles can be embraced in distinct rooms. However, a cautionary note is sounded against the temptation to amalgamate disparate styles within a single space. Such an approach, he warns, can lead to a visual cacophony, diminishing the intended impact and cohesiveness of the design. Engoyi further advises homeowners to extend their commitment to a chosen style across all elements, from furniture and carpets to flooring and ceiling treatments. The holistic integration of these components contributes to a seamless and harmonious aesthetic that resonates throughout the home. In contemplating the longevity of design styles, Engoyi dispels the notion of trends becoming outdated, asserting that styles may ebb and flow in popularity but can be timeless when thoughtfully applied. Vintage and gothic designs, he notes, possess enduring appeal when employed with a discerning eye for balance. For those navigating the complexities of interior design, Engoyi extols the advantages of enlisting a professional interior designer. These experts not only engage in meticulous space planning to optimize functionality but also provide bespoke solutions, ensuring that each space is a reflection of the occupants’ lifestyle and preferences. Masterclass, an esteemed online education platform, imparts valuable insights for beginners in the realm of interior design. Beyond the selection of a design style, the platform underscores the significance of identifying a focal point within each room. Whether it be an eye-catching piece of art, a statement fireplace, or an elegant couch, the focal point serves as the anchor, drawing attention and setting the tone for the entire space. Achieving visual balance, according to Masterclass, involves a nuanced understanding of scale, texture, and positioning. The distribution of visual weight, whether through a juxtaposition of large and small items or the careful placement of elements at different heights, contributes to a sense of equilibrium and completeness in every room. In essence, interior design emerges as a harmonious symphony of personal expression and design principles. The careful orchestration of diverse elements, guided by an understanding of style, balance, and functionality, transforms a house into a captivating and inviting home—a reflection of the unique spirit of those who dwell within its walls. Interior Design: Crafting a Cohesive and Inviting Home Atmosphere Delving into the world of interior design unveils the transformative power that carefully curated spaces wield in shaping the ambiance of a home. Beyond the structural confines, the art of interior décor is an intricate dance that blends personal flair with design principles, elevating living spaces into sanctuaries of style and comfort. Whether you’re the proud owner of a dwelling or customizing a rental space, the quest for personalization remains a common thread, driving the desire to infuse every nook and cranny with individuality. According to Pence Engoyi, a seasoned professional at the helm of A Plus Interiors Limited, the linchpin of successful interior design lies in understanding and embracing the client’s unique style. Engoyi emphasizes the importance of choosing a design style that resonates with the individual, offering an array of options from classical and modern to rustic and afro-modern. This conscious selection, termed the ‘design style,’ becomes the guiding force, ensuring coherence and unity throughout a particular room. Diversity in design is encouraged, with Engoyi suggesting that different styles can be embraced in distinct rooms. However, a cautionary note is sounded against the temptation to amalgamate disparate styles within a single space. Such an approach, he warns, can lead to a visual cacophony, diminishing the intended impact and cohesiveness of the design. Engoyi further advises homeowners to extend their commitment to a chosen style across all elements, from furniture and carpets to flooring and ceiling treatments. The holistic integration of these components contributes to a seamless and harmonious aesthetic that resonates throughout the home. In contemplating the longevity of design styles, Engoyi dispels the notion of trends becoming outdated, asserting that styles may ebb and flow in popularity but can be timeless when thoughtfully applied. Vintage and gothic designs, he notes, possess enduring appeal when employed with a discerning eye for balance. For those navigating the complexities of interior design, Engoyi extols the advantages of enlisting a professional interior designer. These experts not only engage in meticulous space planning to optimize functionality but also provide bespoke solutions, ensuring that each space is a reflection of the occupants’ lifestyle and preferences. Masterclass, an esteemed online education platform, imparts valuable insights for beginners in the realm of interior design. Beyond the selection of a design style, the platform underscores the significance of identifying a focal point within each room. Whether it be an eye-catching piece of art, a statement fireplace, or an elegant couch, the focal point serves as the anchor, drawing attention and setting the tone for the entire space. Achieving visual balance, according to Masterclass, involves a nuanced understanding of scale, texture, and positioning. The distribution of visual weight, whether through a juxtaposition of large and small items or the careful placement of elements at different heights, contributes to a sense of equilibrium and completeness in

July 8, 2025 - In Energy By gradadev 0

KenGen Unveils Grand Plan: Building Africa’s Largest Wind Farm in Marsabit

In a significant stride towards achieving 100% renewable energy, KenGen, Kenya’s leading energy company, is poised to construct a colossal wind farm in Marsabit, a region in northern Kenya, with a staggering 1000 MW capacity. This ambitious endeavor represents a remarkable leap forward in the country’s pursuit of sustainability. Reports from Bloomberg reveal that KenGen plans to secure funding for this monumental project by seeking debt financing to cover 75% of the total investment, while the remainder will be financed through equity. Although the specific cost of the project remains undisclosed, it is poised to surpass the 310 MW Lake Turkana Wind Farm, situated in the same Marsabit area, thus earning the distinction of being the largest wind farm on the African continent. Furthermore, this endeavor solidifies Kenya’s stature as a global leader in renewable energy, with approximately 92% of the country’s current energy capacity already hailing from renewable sources like solar, geothermal, and hydroelectric dams. The envisaged 1000 MW wind farm is projected to be operational by 2028, two years ahead of Kenya’s ambitious target to achieve 100% renewable energy production. To ensure the project’s success and cater to evolving demands, the wind farm’s development will be carried out in phases, guided by comprehensive feasibility studies conducted by the Agence Française de Développement. These studies will factor in considerations such as increased capacity requirements and grid security. This initiative aligns with KenGen’s revamped corporate strategy, which aims to augment the national grid by an impressive 3,000 MW within the coming decade. This expansion will effectively double the country’s existing installed generation capacity to reach 6,000 MW. In addition to pioneering the wind farm, KenGen is actively pursuing plans for the refurbishment of its existing power plants, enhancing their efficiency and sustainability for long-term electricity generation. This forward-looking approach includes the integration of advanced technology and environmentally friendly practices to reduce the environmental footprint of power generation. The company is embarking on a remarkable project, with an estimated budget of Sh110 billion, to establish an expansive energy park at Olkaria in Naivasha, Nakuru County. This industrial park, set to commence construction in 2025, will cater to various industries, including those involved in fertilizer production, iron and steel manufacturing, textiles, food and beverage processing, and more. The project will occupy a sprawling 1,824 hectares within the Olkaria geothermal hub, with an anticipated completion date in 2045. KenGen’s dynamic approach to sustainable energy underscores its unwavering commitment to powering a greener, more prosperous future. The company’s continuous innovation, investment in renewable energy, and commitment to environmental responsibility position it as a driving force in Kenya’s journey towards energy sustainability and economic growth. KenGen’s ambitious projects, such as the Marsabit wind farm and the Olkaria energy park, not only benefit the nation’s energy sector but also contribute significantly to local job creation and economic development.

July 8, 2025 - In Uncategorized By gradadev 0

Kenya’s Devki Group Empowers Regional Expansion with Purchase of 99.94% of CIMERWA Cement

Kenya’s National Cement Holdings is poised to take the reins at CIMERWA, Rwanda’s foremost cement producer, signaling a transformative shift in ownership. The strategic acquisition, announced on Friday, November 17, unveils National Cement as the new majority stakeholder, set to control an impressive 99.94% of CIMERWA through individual share purchase agreements with PPC International Holdings Proprietary Limited and Rwanda’s minority shareholders. This development marks a significant milestone for Rwanda’s cement industry, as the country’s sole integrated cement producer transitions into the hands of National Cement, a dynamic player with a robust presence in East Africa and ambitious plans aligned with the region’s infrastructure development goals. CIMERWA, majority-owned by PPCIH, is set for a transition that promises not only increased production but also sustained growth under National Cement’s committed ownership. With a 51% stake, PPCIH currently holds the majority share in CIMERWA, while the remaining 49% is distributed among minority shareholders, including Rwanda Social Security Board (RSSB), Agaciro Development Fund, Rwanda Investment Group, and SONARWA General Insurance Company Holdings Ltd. Over the years, CIMERWA has demonstrated notable improvements in operational efficiency and financial performance, thanks to the support of its leadership team and shareholders. Regis Rugemanshuro, Chairman of CIMERWA, expressed enthusiasm about the entry of National Cement into the Rwandan market, anticipating a positive impact on production and overall growth. Rugemanshuro extended gratitude to current shareholders and affirmed CIMERWA’s dedication to building on past successes and enhancing its regional influence. National Cement, a part of the Devki Group of companies, brings a wealth of experience from its diverse portfolio in cement, steel, roofing materials, fertilizers, and packaging materials. Operating integrated cement and clinker plants, as well as multiple grinding plants in Kenya, and a cement grinding plant in Eastern Uganda, the Devki Group is a key player in the East African cement industry. The acquisition of CIMERWA aligns seamlessly with the Devki Group’s expansion strategy and commitment to regional infrastructure development. Dr. Narendra Raval, Chairman of Devki Group, emphasized a long-term strategic partnership with CIMERWA, expressing confidence in the business’s potential and eagerness to contribute to regional infrastructure development. Meanwhile, Roland van Wijnen, CEO of PPC Ltd, highlighted the completion of PPC’s strategy to refocus on core Southern African markets, expressing confidence in National Cement’s ability to fill the void left by PPC in Central and East Africa. The transaction’s implementation is contingent on meeting or waiving conditions precedent typical of such transactions, with a targeted completion date by no later than February 29, 2024, as outlined in the official statement. Established in 1984, CIMERWA Plc brings four decades of experience as Rwanda’s premier integrated cement manufacturer, with its production plant located in Bugarama, Rusizi District, near the southwestern border of Rwanda.

July 8, 2025 - In Uncategorized By gradadev 0

Mi Vida to sell 200 low cost apartments at Garden City to IHS in a partnership deal

Real estate developer Mi Vida Homes has signed an investment deal with International Housing Solutions (IHS) to develop the ‘237 Garden City’ housing project, pointing towards timely delivery. Under the agreement, which is subject to regulatory approvals, IHS Kenya Fund will acquire two hundred units within the project. The project is the third by the property developer at Garden City, which is a 47-acre mixed-use development situated along Thika Road. Speaking during the announcing ceremony in Nairobi, Mi Vida Homes CEO Samuel Kariuki, said the purchase agreement, at an undisclosed fixed price, will enable the developer mitigate market risk, which is a challenge to scaling for the wider housing market. “Through this partnership, we have a guaranteed market for the apartments we are building. Our main goal is to guarantee timely delivery and sustainability at every stage of the project, including planning, building and project management,” Kariuki said. IHS Kenya managing director Peter Mayavi reiterated the purchase agreement will guarantee Mi Vida Homes a ready market, thus boosting the confidence of both the developers and other stakeholders. He added that the pact is timely because Kenya has a pressing need for housing that is not only affordable, but offers the quality that ensures users get a dignified living. “A key way of ensuring this goal is removing the market risk for developer partners because this will now catalyze the development of large-scale projects such as 237.” Kenya faces a shortage of about two million housing units every year, against a current supply of only 50,000 new housing units. The units in the 237 development are a mix of one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments. IHS is a private equity fund manager investing in green affordable housing across Sub-Saharan Africa. It additionally partners with other financial institutions, development financiers, investors, land owners and developers to increase the stock of quality, affordable green housing in the Kenyan market. It intends to build sustainable city communities where residents will live close to public transportation, create jobs through their developments, and work with non-profits to solve inequality in the real estate industry. Within the next seven years, IHS Kenya intends to provide up to 4,000 affordably priced apartments for both sale and rental. Further, IHS is an asset manager of six affordable housing funds in the Southern African region and manages a listed REIT on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. It boasts of a solid track record in the African affordable housing space with operations across four countries in the Sub-Saharan African region (South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Kenya), and is a wholly owned subsidiary within the US- Hunt Companies group, a real estate and infrastructure fund manager. On the other hand, Mi Vida is a residential developer created through a joint venture between Actis, a leading growth markets investor who have been active in the region for over 70 years and Shapoorji Pallonji Real Estate (SPRE), the real estate arm of one of India’s largest conglomerates. Was officially launched in July 2019 to address the shortage of middle-income housing that families can afford, by delivering a minimum of 3,000 middle-income housing units over the next five years. It is embodied in works of innovative design, modern engineering, trusted construction, on-time delivery and an impeccable record.

July 8, 2025 - In Construction By gradadev 0

Lobby calls on architects to focus on sustainable cities as urban population rises

The percentage of Africans who live in cities is predicted to rise by almost 60% by 2050, thus governments in emerging metropolitan centers should start embracing collaborations and skilled architectural practices. During this year’s congress, which was co-hosted by Sweden and Kenya, the International Federation of Landscape Architects (IFLA) issued this urgent request. The forum, which took place over two days on September 28 and 29, aimed to improve landscape architecture in light of Agenda 2030 for Sustainability. This will be accomplished by investigating novel approaches to group problem-solving, cross-border tactics, and potential networks of collaboration, all the while putting the pressing concerns of social injustice, climate change, and biodiversity loss front and center. According to data from the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, the percentage of Africans living in urban areas increased from 27% in 1950 to 40% in 2015. According to the UN, “the population is expected to increase by at least 60% by 2050, which will exacerbate the climate change crisis and highlight the urgent need for collaboration towards building sustainable cities.” Chief Architect Lawrence Mochama, speaking at the convention as a representative of the CS of the State Department for Public Works, stressed the government’s commitment to making cities sustainable in accordance with the debates from the African Climate Summit. “We cannot save our biodiversity alone; cooperation is necessary. According to Mochama, the administration is dedicated to transforming urban areas into places where people may live with dignity as well as a hub for economic growth. Caroline Vicini, the Swedish ambassador to Kenya, praised the efforts of the built environment professionals in both nations to exchange knowledge and address climate change. “It is important to build smart, healthy and efficient cities where people can integrate, communicate and move freely. Landscape architecture plays an important role in shaping sustainable development,” she said. President of Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK) Florence Nyole, stressed on the significance of cooperation within the built environment, as it enabled the professionals to reach shared environmental goals that rest on a foundation of social sustainability. “Such congresses provide an opportunity to promote learning and collaboration among built environment professions to find solutions to the major global challenges,” Nyole said. “The city of Nairobi for instance, relates very closely to the congress theme, ‘Emergent Interaction’, with rapid urbanization, dealing with climate change and adequate housing as priority issues.” She however says the country faces a huge gap in the incorporation of required professionalism in architectural work, saying only 20 percent of the buildings in the country have been built with the input of environmental specialists who enforced sustainability measures. “The remaining 80 per cent is a clear gap that needs a tap in, hence the need for more collaborative frameworks in sharing of ideas and solutions in betterment of our cities.” The International Federation of Landscape Architects (IFLA ) is a global body of landscape architects represented through national member associations spread through Africa, the Americas, Europe, Asia Pacific and the Middle East. IFLA’s mission is to promote the landscape architecture profession within a collaborative partnership of the allied built-environment professions, demanding the highest standards of education, training, research and professional practice, and providing leadership and stewardship in all matters.

July 8, 2025 - In Technology By gradadev 0

AHI Carrier announces Kenyan market entry on rising data centers demand

Gulf based tech firm AHI Carrier, that offers modern and innovative heating, air conditioning and refrigeration integrated solutions has announced its plan to set a base in the country, geared towards data centers venture. A data center is a sizable cluster of connected computer servers that is often utilized by businesses to process, store, or distribute vast volumes of data remotely. According to the firm’s regional business manager Ajay Garg, the strategic move is in line with the company’s expansion bid while leveraging Kenya’s robust digital industry with the rise in data centers demand. “The rise in demand for data centers in Kenya provides an excellent opportunity for the carrier solutions to emerge prominently as a leading provider of extensive data center solutions,” Garg said. “We want to showcase our proficiency in high-density, energy-efficient cooling solutions, air cooling systems, and the seamless integration of data centers into smart city infrastructures. Our ultra-high efficiency, low global warming potential chillers are specifically designed to cater for diverse capacity requirements of all data centers.” The announcement comes at a time the country is wooing international tech giants with green energy data centers in the race towards sustainability goals 2030. The potential for Kenya to attract technology companies with environment-friendly data centers has been described to be immense in the recent past. More than 70 per cent of Kenya’s grid power is from green energy, which means that firms that set up business in Kenya already have a head-start in terms of meeting their sustainability objectives. The greening of Kenya’s grid is courtesy of geothermal power, a renewable energy source that is turning into a magnet for firms on a mission to decarbonise. In line with this, the firm affirmed that it plans to tap in the market by offering state-of-the-art data center solutions, to empower businesses to thrive in an ever-evolving digital landscape. “This comes on the backdrop of the government’s enactment of a data protection act to safeguard and protect people’s and company’s data where they have seen a surge in many firms racing to comply with data protection requirement laws,” Garg added. He reiterated that the carrier solutions will contribute to the growth of data in the region as it will be driven by digital transformation, emerging fintech solutions, and overall infrastructure success. Carrier Solutions stands as the premier provider of comprehensive data center solutions, specializing in design, construction, and consultancy services. With a strategic focus on high-density cooling solutions, air cooling systems, and smart city data center integration, Carrier Solutions is dedicated to charting new standards of excellence in Kenya’s data center industry. AHI Carrier FZC (AHIC) is a fully owned subsidiary of Air-Conditioning & Heating International (AHI) which became a Carrier Joint Venture Company on December 18th, 2008. The partnership between Carrier and AHI dates back to December 1997 when the first agreement was signed for distribution of Carrier products in Russia and CIS countries. In 1999, Carrier and Toshiba Air-conditioning entered into a joint venture and the Toshiba range of air-conditioning products was added for distribution in AHIC territories and in 2000, AHIC distribution rights were expanded to include East and Central Africa. Today, AHI Carrier FZC is the largest Carrier joint venture company outside the USA and has operations in 108 countries spanning 5 continents. AHI Carrier’s commitment to exceeding customer expectations by offering energy efficient products with cutting edge technology, the highest levels of quality and market leading after sales service has enabled it to achieve a significant and satisfied customer base since its inception.

July 1, 2025 - In Housing & Finance By gradadev 0

Housing financier Shelter Afrique approved to become a development bank

Pan-African housing development financier, Shelter Afrique has been elevated into a development bank in a historic move that promises to reshape the landscape of African housing and urban development. This follows the approval by its shareholders during the Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) in Algiers, Algeria between 4th -5th of October. The renaming of Shelter Afrique, according to a statement, “solidifies its status as a transformative and sustainable development bank” that is completely committed to developing urban housing and related infrastructure development throughout Africa. The transition will be visible, according to managing director Thierno-Habib Hann, through greater housing unit finance and construction as well as better access to decent, sustainable, and affordable housing. The bank said that the change will also bring it into compliance with international norms and put it in the forefront of financiers for the housing sector. “This will also place us at par with peer Development Finance institutions (DFIs),” the company stated. Some of the key highlights of the financier’s transformation are as follows; International Alignment The new Agreement aligns the Bank to international standards granting the institution a leading position among housing sector financiers and placing it at par with peer Development Finance institutions (DFIs). The diversification of the shareholding and Board composition into Class A (African States), Class B (African Institutions) and Class C (International and Private sector) will ensure financial sustainability and best-in-class Corporate Governance. Enhance Housing Development Impact and Shareholder Value The Bank will generate and maintain robust positive financial returns by posting and monitoring key performance indicators on liquidity, profitability, asset quality, efficiency, and productivity. ShafDB’s strategic vision is also to expand its portfolio offering to include thematic areas across the housing value-chain, such as Green/Climate/Resilience, Gender, Jobs (SMEs/Trade), Trunk Infrastructure, Islamic finance, IDPs (Migrants/Refugees), and Diaspora. This will be achieved via specialized funds in the Asset Management business. Improve Organizational Sustainability The repositioning of ShafDB through the revision of its Statutes will further strengthen its adherence to the highest standards of Corporate Governance and align the Bank’s structures to international frameworks and best practices. The inclusion of an Advisory Board composed of representatives of the Ministry of Finance and international experts will strengthen the strategic and financial management capabilities of the Bank. Generally, the core mandates include delivery of financial solutions and associated services that support both the supply and demand aspects of the affordable housing value chain focusing on addressing Africa’s housing crisis through financial institutions, project finance and public-private partnerships. Shelter-Afrique Development Bank (ShafDB) is a Pan-African institution solely dedicated to financing and promoting housing, urban & related infrastructure development across the African continent. ShafDB operates through a partnership involving 44 African Governments, as well as the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Africa Reinsurance Corporation (Africa-Re). It delivers financial solutions and associated services that support both the supply and demand aspects of the affordable housing value chain. As a premier provider of financial, advisory, and research solutions, ShafDB focuses on addressing Africa’s housing crisis through financial institutions, project finance and public-private partnerships, striving to achieve sustainable developmental impact.