Superior Homes Kenya launches Ksh14bn housing project in Lukenya

Real estate developer, Superior Homes Kenya, has unveiled a groundbreaking Ksh14 billion housing project in Lukenya, Machakos County, signaling a major leap towards sustainable and economically impactful real estate development in East Africa. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Shiv Arora, CEO of Superior Homes Kenya, shed light on the key aspects of the project, emphasizing sustainability, local integration, economic impact, and the future of East African cities. Arora highlighted the company's steadfast commitment to sustainability, citing key initiatives such as solar water heating, garbage recycling, waste management practices, and wastewater treatment. Superior Homes Kenya is integrating renewable energy sources like solar power with battery backup systems in each house, ensuring a green and energy-efficient living environment. By focusing on eco-friendly practices, the company aims to contribute to the larger goal of promoting sustainable energy solutions in Kenya, where more than 85% of energy generation is from green sources. Moreover, Arora underscored the importance of incorporating traditional building styles and locally-sourced materials from East Africa into the development. By utilizing materials like the Lucania stone and hiring local labor, the project not only preserves cultural identity but also creates job opportunities for the surrounding communities. This approach not only adds to the aesthetic appeal of the development but also reduces costs by sourcing materials locally. In terms of economic impact, Arora addressed the challenges posed by the current high-interest rate environment in Kenya, making mortgage financing difficult to access. However, he pointed out the growing middle class, rapid urbanization, and migration patterns in East Africa as factors driving the demand for housing outside the city centers. The master plan communities developed by Superior Homes Kenya not only cater to these trends but also contribute to job creation within the local communities, uplifting standards of living and boosting economic growth. Looking towards the future, Arora envisioned a holistic approach to addressing the challenges of growing cities in East Africa. He emphasized the importance of infrastructure development, including roads and rail networks, that would facilitate commuting from residential areas outside the city centers. By creating self-sustaining communities with access to essential amenities like schools and social facilities, the future of East African cities is poised for a shift towards decentralization and urban expansion. Overall, Superior Homes Kenya's ambitious housing project in Lukenya represents a significant step towards creating sustainable, culturally integrated, and economically vibrant real estate developments in East Africa. By embracing green technologies, local resources, and community empowerment, the company is setting a new standard for housing projects and signaling a positive trajectory for the region's real estate sector.