Africa is a continent with diverse challenges and opportunities for sustainable development. As the population and urbanization rates continue to rise, the demand for green buildings that minimize environmental impact and enhance social well-being is also increasing.
In this article, we will highlight 3 top building green developers in Africa that are leading the way in creating innovative and eco-friendly projects across the continent.
- Kigali Heights Development Company
Kigali Heights Development Company is a joint venture between Fusion Capital, a private equity firm, and Century Real Estate, a property management company, both based in Rwanda. The company is responsible for developing Kigali Heights, a mixed-use complex that comprises retail, office and hospitality spaces in the capital city of Rwanda. Kigali Heights is one of the greenest buildings in Africa, as it has achieved the EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) certification from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group. EDGE is a green building standard that measures the energy, water and embodied energy savings of a building compared to a conventional one. Kigali Heights has achieved 42% energy savings, 32% water savings and 36% less embodied energy in materials, making it a model for green development in Africa1. - Balwin Properties
Balwin Properties is a leading property developer in South Africa, specializing in green residential estates. Balwin has certified over 1.7 million square meters of green homes with the EDGE standard, making it the largest green home developer in Africa. Balwin has also partnered with Absa bank to offer South Africa’s first green mortgage, which provides home buyers with preferential interest rates for purchasing a green home. Balwin’s green homes are designed to reduce energy consumption by using solar geysers, low-energy lighting, and gas hobs. They also reduce water consumption by using low-flow showerheads, taps, and dual-flush toilets. Balwin’s green homes are not only environmentally friendly, but also affordable, as they help homeowners save up to 25% on utility bills2. - Garden City
Garden City is a landmark development in Nairobi, Kenya, that combines residential, retail and office spaces in a green and integrated community. Garden City is the first development in Africa to achieve the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) for Neighborhood Development certification, which is a prestigious rating for environmentally conscious buildings. Garden City incorporates various green features, such as solar panels, rainwater harvesting,
Source :Joycelyn Marigold – Africa Home Building Magazine
