Blog – Page 4 – East African Modern Builder Magazine

August 12, 2025 - In Construction By EA MODERN BUILDER 0

The 64per cent Complete Nairobi Expressway to be Commissioned in 6 Months

The Sh62 billion Nairobi Expressway is now 64 percent complete and is expected to be fully in use by April 2022.The Transport Cabinet Secretary (CS) James Macharia confirmed that it is now 64 per cent complete, and will be commissioned by the president in 6 months. According to the CS, the expressway is headed toward the right direction and his confidence in the project clearly states that it is progressing well and it will be ready for use early next year. He said that test runs on the road will be in March 2022 since the contractors are expected to complete the construction work by February 2022. After visiting the site to check the progress of the project, Macharia stated that the work will be completed in two years instead of the earlier stated four years. The contractors worked very hard, 24 hours a day, under tight security and this helped shorten the project period. The Expressway is a big progress project and it should not be seen just as an infrastructural project. When infrastructure and especially roads are developed in a country, many sectors benefit and most operations of a country become easier, this is what the expressway is about. It will not only ease transportation but will also move labour and capital much faster from one point to another. Nobody feels good when almost half of their productive time is spent on the road, well, the 27.1 KM Highway from Mlolongo through Uhuru Highway to the James Gichuru junction in Westlands, Nairobi Expressway is just about to help you save your time. Immediately it is completed, the time taken to travel from Ruaka to JKIA (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport) will take a maximum of 30 minutes instead of the normal two to three hours. Agricultural produce from Kiambu will take less than an hour to get to JKIA and to markets in the city. It should be noted that the backbone to every economy is good infrastructure and the project is worthy of praise as the citizens will reap the benefits. Kenyans should appreciate the good work that the government is doing in developing the transport sector with no debt incurred as the Expressway construction is purely Public-Private partnership. The China Roads and Bridge Corporation(CRBC) is responsible for designing, financing and building the expressway, and will maintain and operate it during the whole period. One cannot crave or enjoy the roses and avoid the thorns that come with it. Similarly, the Expressway project which commenced in late 2020, has come at a cost for businesses and residents along Mombasa Road. In order to get access to the expressway land by KeNHA (Kenya National Highway Authority) residents, property owners and business owners had to be evicted. This disrupted their day-to-day lifestyles. Motorists using both Uhuru Highway and Mombasa Road have also been forced to use alternative routes as construction work continues to create tragic traffic. This is a challenge especially during the rush hour to get home before the curfew time that was imposed in 5 counties, a move to help curb the spread of Covid- 19. The situation is however temporary as the project will ensure easy flow of traffic. So far, the contractor has spent Sh40 billion of the Sh62 billion budget which is meant for completing the whole project. This is a commendable achievement since the project started late last year.

August 12, 2025 - In Water infrastructure By EA MODERN BUILDER 0

Mwache Dam: Sh20 billion project to Commence on November 1st

The Sh20 billion Mwache Multipurpose Dam project in Kwale County that has been delayed for over six years is finally set to start on November 1st and will take 40 months to be completed. The delay has mainly been caused by compensation disputes between the locals, leaders, and the government. More than half, marking 77 per cent of the residents have been compensated already by the government and are expected to relocate to create space for the project to begin, the residents have confirmed their readiness to relocate after receiving compensation, the rest of them are still waiting to be compensated by the end of October. The critical project is expected to generate water to be supplied in Mombasa and Kwale Counties, that have been facing inadequate clean water supply. Water is a very vital part of life and the residents of these counties should start celebrating as the project will see them enjoy clean and surplus water distribution. At least 16,000acres of land is needed, which means that around 12,000 people will be displaced for the World Bank co-funded project to be implemented. The Fungulani people will have to adjust to the changes that will be brought by the project since the displacement is nothing compared to the joy that awaits them. Kinango Sub-county, where the construction will take place will finally find rescue from drought. According to National Lands Commissioner (NLC), Kazungu Kambi, the 84 meters high project will produce at least 186 000 cubic meters of water per day for Kwale, Mombasa and Kilifi residents. He expressed his appreciation to Kwale County government for their continued support in every step towards keeping the project afloat. The support brings hope and a successful project can be foreseen. Initially, there were issues that brought delays as, Mr. Mvurya, Kwale county governor sought Water Cabinet Secretary (CS) Sicily Kariuki’s intervention over the compensation issues arguing that the local government had been side lined in key decision-making processes. After realizing that the project will not only be a boost for agribusiness through irrigation but will also improve the economy of the country, the issues were solved and the project will soon kick off. The government also launched the construction of Dam, earlier this year in Kwale County. Upon completion, the dam will relieve at least 40,000 residents who will be supplied by the clean water from the dam.

August 12, 2025 - In Energy By EA MODERN BUILDER 0

Lighting Tips

Which is the right lighting for your room? Choosing the right lighting improves and promotes productivity, makes you comfortable and at peace. Everyone has a craving to relax and to be comfortable in their own space, which is why you need to invest in proper lighting, it creates a bond between people, and brings happiness as it enhances closeness among people. Think about having the right light in your bedroom, sitting room, kitchen, study. Good moods will be enhanced. Light fixtures can end up being the focus point in a room. How one physically feels in a room greatly depends in lighting. Minimal, quality light is recommended. Too much light can be dangerous. Both natural and artificial light should be taken into consideration when designing your space. Matching light levels to the work being done is important, you need the right quality and right amount of light. You need a brightly lit cooking space- kitchen and not so bright light for reading, a lamp would be good. Lighting is so powerful and can be used to manipulate space and hence affect the feeling in the space. It also affects how we interpret textures and colours, but only if it is done properly.

August 12, 2025 - In Energy By EA MODERN BUILDER 0

Biogas: Cheaper, Clean Alternative to LPG and Cooking Gas

Biogas continues to be mentioned as a cost effective, clean, green energy that is a most preferred alternative to turn to as a result of the increase in price of fuel leading to exaggerated cost of cooking gas and Liquified Petroleum Gas. (LPG). It is however limited since not everyone can benefit from it as the gas majorly depends on regular distribution of waste products from domestic animals like cow dung, pig droppings. This makes zero-grazing, dairy and pig farmers to fully and easily benefit from the option as they get the raw materials free of charge. The readily available clean, green energy is only costly at the initial stages of installation of bio-digester receptacles up to the houses which is a one-time procedure and cannot be compared to the cost of petroleum gas or cooking gas. The bio-digester is the receptacle that stores the methane gas produced from animals’ wastes. Biogas is eco-friendly, reduces soil and water pollution, it involves the use of few technological advances, hence not complicated to use. Improper installation of the bio-digester receptacle can however lead to blowing up with severe damages which can be prevented and cannot be compared to its cost effectiveness. Since farming is wide spread across the world, methane use from farming activities is highly encouraged to help solve the problem of green waste in markets. The effluent from bio- digesters can still be used as manure hence nothing goes to waste, the soil also benefits and gains fertility. There are companies in Kenya that deal with installation of bio-digester receptacles hence this is not a new concept in Kenya. Citizens and institutions are however urged to use biogas for clean energy and even if they do not have free access to the animals’ wastes, they can get them from nearby slaughter houses at a fee. Citizens and farmers who have been using biogas for cooking and lighting have greatly benefited and do not have any regrets of using it. They have no dream of turning back to other sources of energy. The merits outweigh the demerits and since nobody wants to spend more money on cooking and petroleum gas, with the tough times brought to the economy by Covid-19, biogas is the immediate remedy, and one can get the raw materials free of charge. Kenya is making efforts to use clean energy like wind power and geothermal, farmers should therefore feel challenged to use little or no cost at all for energy and especially during these tough economic times of price increment in fuel products.

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.