Push for developers to go green intensifies as NCA forms merger.
By MOVINCE ODUOR
It will soon be a requirement for buildings to be certified as green before tenants are allowed in. According to the new push construction agencies, property developers are expected to fully comply with green standards in order for their buildings to be considered safe and suitable for occupation.
National Construction Authority (NCA) has penned a MoU with Kenya Green Building Society to enforce property developers to integrate green building concepts in all their projects. KGBS is the body behind the drive to have eco-friendly buildings in the Kenyan property market. “Before a building is certified as green, the go ahead has to come from KGBS,” says Elizabeth Chege, KGBS Chairperson. Adding that going green will save developers money unlike staying on the same traditional course.
It will take a number of factors in check for a building to meet Green Building Society’s threshold. Ms. Chege opined the lobby will exercise diligence in checking accessibility and proximity to means of transport, water supply and availability, energy and building management. Government owned buildings as well as existing ones will not be spared either. Ms. Chege said incentives have been devised to ensure all existing buildings join the bandwagon in adopting green building concept. “There are extensive measures in place to make existing buildings green. It is an opportunity to attract the government, which owns many buildings especially in town centers,” she added.
Addressing industry players during the MoU signing in Upperhill Nairobi, NCA Executive Director Daniel Manduku put developers who ought to take ‘shortcuts’ when implementing required procedures on the spot warning that stern action will be taken. “A very strong enforcement will be used to ensure people do not cut corners. If you break any regulations, action will be taken,” said Mr. Manduku.
The merger is projected to have a great impact on the property sector thus spiraling the number of environmentally-friendly buildings. “The partnership will work towards sensitizing Kenyans on the importance of green buildings,” Ms. Chege noted.
