KPDA opens 2025 annual conference with call to reset, reform and rise

The Kenya Property Developers Association (KPDA) has officially opened its 2025 Annual Conference in Nairobi, bringing together key stakeholders in real estate, investment, and urban development under the theme “Reset, Reform, Rise: Creating the real estate sector we want.”

The gathering has drawn developers, financiers, regulators, policymakers, and international partners to deliberate on solutions for a resilient and globally competitive real estate industry.

Kenya’s real estate sector accounts for nearly 10 percent of the country’s GDP and employs millions across the value chain.

However, it continues to face major hurdles, including an annual housing deficit of over 250,000 units, escalating input costs, financing rates that have doubled borrowing expenses, and prolonged approval processes that hinder investment.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, KPDA Chairman Ken Luusa underscored the urgency of this year’s theme.

“This is why the 2025 theme, ‘Reset, Reform, Rise,’ is not just aspirational — it is imperative,” he said.

“Reset means acknowledging that the old ways of doing things cannot take us forward. Reform means instituting systemic change. Rise means building a sector that is not only profitable but also inclusive, green, and globally competitive.”

Over the past year, KPDA has stepped up its policy engagement on physical and land use planning, housing finance reforms, and tax policy reviews.

The association also collaborated with the Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK), the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA), and other business member organizations to tackle challenges such as high credit costs, delayed approvals, and the need for predictable regulatory frameworks.

This year’s conference has also secured CPD accreditation, ensuring that participants not only gain insights but also professional development credits.

Among its new features is the Investor Deal Room, designed to connect developers directly with more than 20 fund managers, banks, and institutional investors.

Discussions are also set to cover financing and capital markets, technology and AI in real estate, as well as sustainability in housing and urban development.

With more than 300 delegates expected, the forum reaffirms KPDA’s position as the leading voice of Kenya’s real estate sector and its commitment to building a future that is inclusive, sustainable, and globally competitive.