Kenya’s vision of providing adequate, affordable housing for its growing population remains a key developmental priority. Yet, despite policy commitments such as the Affordable Housing Programme (AHP) under the Big 4 Agenda, the delivery of low-cost housing faces persistent financial, regulatory, and market-related hurdles. One of the most effective solutions lies in the strategic use of subsidies...
In the pursuit of affordable housing in Kenya, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions have emerged as crucial players. As the country grapples with a growing housing deficit and rising construction costs, TVETs are equipping young people with practical skills essential for the delivery of quality, cost-effective housing projects. Skilled Workforce for the Construction...
Building codes are a fundamental part of the real estate and construction industry. These are sets of regulations established by local, national, or international authorities to ensure that structures are safe, healthy, sustainable, and suitable for human habitation. In Kenya and globally, adhering to building codes is not optional , it’s a legal requirement that guides everything from the foundation...
Remote sensing technologies are revolutionizing the real estate industry, especially in the areas of land surveying, development planning, and project monitoring. T hese technologies involve collecting data about a location or object without making physical contact, typically using satellite imagery, drones, LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), and aerial photography. In real estate, this means faster,...
Building Information Modeling, commonly known as BIM, is a digital technology used in the architecture, engineering, and construction industries to create and manage detailed 3D models of buildings and infrastructure projects. These models go beyond simple visuals, containing rich information about every component of a building—from structural elements to electrical systems. How BIM Works BIM...
A carbon footprint refers to the total amount of greenhouse gases, primarily carbon dioxide (COâ‚‚), that are emitted directly or indirectly by an individual, organization, event, or product. It measures the impact human activities have on the environment in terms of the amount of carbon released into the atmosphere. Understanding Carbon Footprints Every activity we undertake such as driving a car,...
Interlocking Stabilized Soil Blocks (ISSBs) are an innovative and eco-friendly building material gaining popularity in sustainable construction. Made from a mixture of soil, a small amount of cement or lime for stabilization, and compressed under high pressure, these blocks provide a strong, durable, and cost-effective alternative to traditional bricks. How ISSBs Work ISSBs are designed with...
Energy-saving designs in housing focus on reducing the amount of energy required for heating, cooling, lighting, and other household needs. These designs not only cut utility costs for homeowners but also help conserve natural resources and reduce environmental impact. Key Elements of Energy-Saving Designs Passive Solar Design: Orienting buildings to maximize natural sunlight for warmth and...
Efficient waste management in housing is a critical aspect of creating sustainable and healthy living environments. As urban populations grow, managing household and construction waste effectively reduces pollution, conserves resources, and improves overall community well-being. Key Components of Efficient Waste Management in Housing Waste Segregation: Separating waste at the source into categories...
The construction industry is increasingly turning to eco-friendly materials as a way to reduce environmental impact, promote sustainability, and create healthier living spaces. These materials minimize resource depletion, lower carbon emissions, and often improve energy efficiency in buildings. Common Types of Eco-Friendly Construction Materials Bamboo: Fast-growing and strong, bamboo is an...