Time flies with great content! Renew in to keep enjoying all our premium content.
Centum RE sets the pace for East Africa’s urban future
Sponsored by Centum Real Estate
Signature Villas near Lake Victoria in Entebbe, Uganda.
Photo credit: Centum RE
Centum Real Estate (Centum RE), East Africa’s leading developer of master-planned communities, entered 2025 with strong momentum following a year of impactful delivery, market confidence, and global recognition. With a robust residential pipeline and a firm commitment to sustainable development, the company continues to shape modern living and investment standards in Kenya and Uganda.
“2024 was a milestone year for us,” says Kenneth Mbae, Managing Director of Centum RE. “We enabled thousands of families to attain their homeownership goals and empowered investors to earn passive income through stable, appreciating assets.”
Jawad Jaffer (left), Project Director at Superbrands Limited, giving an award to Kenneth Mbae, Managing Director of Centum Real Estate Limited.
In 2024, Centum RE handed over 384 residential units across its award-winning portfolio – including The Loft Residences in Nairobi and Bella Vista Apartments in Uganda – bringing the total number of homes delivered post-Covid-19 to over 1,000 units.
With a clear focus on integrated urban nodes, the company is redefining the live-work-play model in East Africa through developments like Two Rivers Social City, Vipingo Development Park, and Pearl Marina.
These cities are designed to offer more than housing. They provide access to lifestyle, infrastructure, investment-grade amenities, and economic opportunity, all within sustainable environments.
Notably, Two Rivers, which houses Centum RE’s Riverbank Apartments and The Loft Residences, among others, has emerged as a preferred residential address for the diplomatic and expatriate community. This is thanks to its proximity to embassies, international organisations, and key business districts.
The Loft Residences at Two Rivers, Nairobi.
Photo credit: Centum RE
The recent announcement of the United Nations’ expanded operations in Nairobi is expected to further increase demand for secure, high-end residential options, particularly in Two Rivers, reinforcing its position as a diplomatic and investment hub. “This move aligns with our strategy,” says Mbae.
“We are already seeing strong leasing interests from professionals in the UN and embassy ecosystem. As a result, rental yields at Two Rivers have reached impressive highs of 10–15 percent, with dollar or euro-denominated leases offering excellent returns.”
A drone shot of Two Rivers, Nairobi.
Photo credit: Centum RE
Centum RE has not only capitalised on market demand, but has also led the region in responsible, green development. Its projects align with IFC Performance Standards and are EDGE-certified, featuring energy-efficient designs, expansive green spaces, and water-saving technologies. These innovations have earned the company global acclaim, including the EDGE Champion Award and over 20 international recognitions across four continents in 2024 alone.
Centum RE’s elevation to Superbrand status highlights its rising influence and credibility in the regional property market. More than just a developer, Centum RE has earned a reputation for shaping exceptional living environments that combine quality, convenience, and long-term value. This recognition reflects not only the premium nature of its homes, but also the trust and confidence it continues to build among homeowners, investors, and the wider real estate community.
With an asset base of Ksh40 billion, Centum RE is the first East African developer to list a real estate bond on the Nairobi Securities Exchange. This Ksh3 billion bond reflects investor trust in the company’s transparent delivery model, strong governance, and steady financial performance.
“Our philosophy is to build cities where people can live with dignity, invest confidently, and grow sustainably,” Mr Mbae explains.
The company’s developments aim to address East Africa’s severe housing deficit, with over 70 percent of its portfolio targeting the affordable-to-mid-market segment. From move-in-ready units to serviced land and customisable off-plan homes, Centum RE offers flexible paths to ownership for both end-users and institutional buyers such as Saccos, chamas, and real estate funds.
Ongoing constructions in 2025 include Cascadia Apartments, 26 Mzizi Court Residences, 265 Elmer One, Riviera Townhouses, and Awali Estate Phase II. In total, the company is delivering over 1,300 units currently under construction, while also preparing for upcoming launches like Riverbank Apartments Phase II and Two Rivers Duplexes.
A drone shot to Awali Estate at Vipingo, Kilifi.
Photo credit: Centum RE
Beyond housing, Centum RE invests in infrastructure across its 10,600-acre land bank, ensuring every development is supported by roads, power, ICT, water systems, and top-tier security. The Vipingo Development Park, for example, has attracted over $210 million in investments, transforming Kilifi into a fast-growing node for residential, commercial, and industrial growth.
Centum RE’s commitment to long-term transformation is matched by its focus on people. Its Future Leaders Graduate Trainee Programme develops the next generation of property professionals, and the company regularly contributes thought leadership to international forums on green building, real estate investment, and urban development.
Looking ahead, Centum RE is set to expand its footprint across Africa, while deepening its presence in Kenya and Uganda. “We’re optimistic about the future,” says Mr Mbae.
“The real estate sector in East Africa is maturing rapidly, and we’re well-positioned to continue delivering value through places that are not only liveable, but also investable and sustainable.”
With a vision rooted in impact, innovation, and integrity, Centum RE remains a trailblazer in building the future of urban Africa, one thriving city at a time.
