Beyond Eastleigh: Somali investors transform Nairobi's real estate landscape
By Paul Aginnah |
With their expanding horizons and investments in leafy suburbs of Nairobi, Somali entrepreneurs are reshaping Nairobi's real estate market and leaving an indelible mark on the city's urban fabric.
In recent years, Somali investors have made a profound impact on Nairobi's real estate landscape, going beyond their traditional stronghold of Eastleigh.
This trend was vividly demonstrated on Saturday during the inauguration of Rodol Towers in Parklands, a collaborative project between two prominent property developers in the country, spearheaded by Abdifatah Rodol, Bashir Abdulahi Deer and Abdirahman Shibli.
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The groundbreaking ceremony garnered the presence of prominent Somali politicians, including two former Prime Ministers: Ali Mahamud Geddi and Dr. Abdiweli Gas. Deputy Prime Minister Ugas Abdulwahab and several former Ministers also graced the event. Notable figures like Yusuf Hassan, the Member of Parliament for Kamukunji, and Farah Maalim, the MP for Dadaab, were in attendance.
In addition to political figures, the event drew the participation of influential business, religious, and community leaders.
Among them were Dr. Mohamed Sheikh Osman, the founder of the Islamic University in Kajiado County, and Sheikh Mahamud Shibli, renowned for establishing Eastleigh Mall and the California Group of Schools. Abdi Hassan Maalim, serving as the Secretary at the Ministry of Lands, was also present.
Some of the investors present during the launch of Rodol Towers in Parklands, Nairobi on October 28, 2023. (Photo: Abdirahman Khalif)
During his speech, Dr Abdi emphasized the importance of conducting due diligence before purchasing any piece of land, citing the example of the Mavoko land scandal. He urged investors to be cautious and thorough in their research.
Rodol Homes Limited has multiple investments in Parklands, Hullingham, and South C.
Nairobi's potential
In support of these investments, MP Yusuf highlighted Nairobi's potential as an excellent place to invest, citing its international standards.
Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan and Director Abdifatah Rodol during the launch of Rodol Towers in Parklands, Nairobi on October 28, 2023. (Photo: Abdirahman Khalif)
Yusuf also acknowledged the increasing number of Somalis returning home from Europe, North America, and other parts of the world. He encouraged Somalis in the diaspora to come back and invest in Nairobi, proudly proclaiming, "Nairobi is my New York, Nairobi is my London, Nairobi is the best place ever."
Recently, travel firm Lonely Planet ranked Nairobi number one in its "Best In Travel 2024" cities.
Paris (France), Montreal (Canada), Mostar (Bosnia) and Philadelphia (USA) completed the prestigious top five list.
Investor Sheikh Mahamud Shibli during the launch of Rodol Towers in Parklands, Nairobi on October 28, 2023. (Photo: Abdirahman Khalif)
MP Farah commended the contractors and engineers involved in the Rodol Towers project.
He described it as a multinational endeavour, bringing together Sikh engineers from India, Turkish contractors, Somali investors from Somalia and Eastleigh, and customers representing the 44 communities across Kenya.
He emphasized the inclusive nature of the project, citing the involvement of diverse stakeholders.
One of the customers present during the launch, Nashim Hamim Mohammed praised the Rodol Homes' approach, stating, "Rodol Homes takes houses and turns them into homes."
The launch of Rodol Towers showcases the growing trend of Somali investors expanding their horizons and investing in Nairobi's middle and upper neighbourhoods as they utilise their expertise to further enhance Nairobi's vibrant real estate market.
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