Acorn Holdings Limited Edward Kirathe has been feted as the Top Africa Real Estate CEO of the year at the prestigious Africa Property Investment (API) Summit held in South Africa for his outstanding leadership and innovation in the sector.
This recognition positions Acorn as a trailblazer not only in the development and management of Purpose-built Student Accommodations (PSBA) in East Africa but also an astute leader in offering solutions to the burgeoning population in Africa.
Mr. Kirathe’s recognition comes as a testament to his visionary approach to real estate investment, focusing on sustainable and socially impactful projects.
Under his leadership, Acorn Holdings has pioneered the development of quality and affordable student housing, addressing a critical gap in the market and transforming the landscape of student accommodation in Kenya.
He has been on the forefront championing the development of the first-ever purpose-built student accommodation (PSBA) in East Africa which has been pivotal in addressing the pressing demand for safe, affordable and modern housing for university students which in return fosters a conducive environment for academic excellence.
In the pipeline is 17,000 PBSA under development and 7,000 fully operational beds across Nairobi and its adjacent towns.
Commenting on the award, Mr. Kirathe said, “It is indeed an honor to be recognized across the continent. This award mirrors the efforts and dedication of the entire Acorn team who work tirelessly to deliver the best results to the people we serve. We remain committed to the company’s outlook to deliver innovative and sustainable real estate solutions that meet the evolving needs of the people that we serve.”
In addition, he has been influential in introducing innovative financing mechanisms which include the establishment of Kenya’s first green bond and the Acorn Student Accommodation Development REIT and Income REIT.
These financial instruments have not only attracted significant investment into the real estate sector but have also been critical to instilling investor confidence in Acorn’s projects.
“We have been strategic in the direction we want to take in our growth trajectory in advancing our core business portfolios in Development management, Project management and Real Estate Investment. We aim to expand our footprint across Kenya and the region by providing high-quality accommodation to students and professionals whilst contributing to the socio-economic development of our country,” he stated.
The API Summit is a premium real estate gathering in African that brings together industry leaders, investors, policy makers discus trends, challenges, and opportunities in the African property market as well as areas of collaboration.
This year was the Summit 15th annual event that provided an opportunity to reconnect and establish networks with over 500 investors, over 30 African and international countries.
Acorn Holdings affirms to continue leveraging technology to meet the customers’ needs through innovation of our product offerings to their full satisfaction in efforts to drive change in the real estate sector in Kenya and Africa at large.
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