Sustainable development is becoming increasingly important in the real estate industry. As East Africa experiences rapid urbanization and economic growth, property developers have a unique opportunity and responsibility to incorporate sustainable practices into their projects.
Actis East Africa is a renowned property developer focused on sustainable real estate investments in the region. Their commitment to sustainable development is evident through their flagship project, Garden City. Located in Nairobi, Kenya, this integrated mixed-use development sets high standards for ecological consciousness.
Actis East Africa has prioritized environmental sustainability by implementing green building practices, utilizing renewable energy sources, and incorporating climate-smart design strategies.
The project achieved 4-Star Green Star Sustainability Rating, making it the first in sub-Saharan Africa to receive this prestigious recognition (Business Daily Africa, 2021). Actis East Africa’s emphasis on sustainable construction and operation, alongside its community engagement efforts, positions Garden City as a transformative model of urban development within the region.
Centum Real Estate
Centum Real Estate, part of Centum Investment Company, has cemented its reputation as a sustainable property developer in East Africa. Their flagship project, Two Rivers, situated in Nairobi, demonstrates their commitment to integrating sustainable practices into the built environment.
Two Rivers, a mixed-use development, has embraced several environmentally friendly initiatives, such as rainwater harvesting, use of LED lighting, and installation of solar panels for energy generation .
Their proactive approach to sustainable development has earned Two Rivers recognition as the first project in East Africa to receive the EDGE (“Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies”) green building certification )The project stands as a testament to Centum Real Estate’s dedication to sustainable construction practices and responsible environmental stewardship.
Cytonn Real Estate
Cytonn Real Estate is an emerging name in the East African property development market with an impressive focus on sustainability. Their development, The Alma, located in Ruaka, Kenya, showcases their commitment to ecological preservation.
The Alma is designed to minimize its carbon footprint by integrating renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, and water-efficient fixtures .
These sustainable features contribute to significantly reduced energy consumption and water wastage, setting a high benchmark for future developments.Cytonn Real Estate’s dedication to sustainable living is exemplified by their investment in environmentally friendly technologies and their adherence to international green building certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) (Cytonn Real Estate, n.d.). By implementing such practices,
The Alma stands as a testament to Cytonn’s vision of sustainable urban development in East Africa.
Sustainable property developers in East Africa are at the forefront of building a greener future for the region. Actis East Africa, Centum Real Estate, and Cytonn Real Estate have demonstrated their commitment to sustainable development through their innovative projects.
By incorporating eco-friendly design principles, energy-efficient technologies, and responsible construction practices, these developers are not only creating sustainable communities but also setting new industry standards. As the region continues to grow, it is crucial that more property developers embrace sustainability, spurring economic growth while preserving the environment for future generations.
Source : African Home Building Magaazine – Joycelyn Marigold
