As Nairobi’s high-end real estate market enters a bold new phase, developers are shifting from conventional luxury to sustainability-driven luxury living.
This shift was evident during the official unveiling of SILVA Gigiri, a landmark residential development at the heart of Nairobi’s diplomatic hub.
According to Mohamed Bishar, the developer, the project brings a fresh perspective to Kenya’s housing sector – one that blends modern architecture with long-term environmental consciousness.
The visionary founder of Season Global noted that his idea for Silva Gigiri came at a time when many developers are focused on density.
A KSh 2 billion vision
Speaking exclusively to News Nine, Bishar revealed that the KSh 2 billion investment is focused on quality and sustainability.
“Necessarily, we do not have to mention what numbers it is. But it is a project worth over two billion,” Bishar stated.
The development, located on the prestigious United Nations (UN) Crescent, comprises 185 units, technically designed as “a hotel in suites.”
While the project caters to the elite, only 83 units are available for sale, with the remainder designated to support the growing accommodation needs of UN staff and the diplomatic community.
Presiding over the launch, Cabinet Secretary for Health, Aden Duale, stated that the project aligns with the country’s health and economic priorities.
CS Duale emphasised that the Ministry of Health recognises wellness-oriented living as a strategic approach to reducing the national disease burden. He noted that the project’s focus on natural light and green spaces addresses rising mental health challenges.
“Silva Gigiri’s emphasis on natural light, expansive green spaces, and serene environments addresses rising mental health challenges while promoting mental clarity and well-being,” Duale remarked.
The CS also noted that features such as a 300-metre jogging track support efforts to prevent Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs).
Creating jobs for Kenyans
Beyond the glass and concrete, SILVA Gigiri’s social impact is significant. In a country where youth unemployment remains a critical challenge, the project serves as a major engine for job creation.
“We are looking into over 300 young people. We are in a country where 69% of the youth are unemployed, so first and foremost, creating jobs and supporting 300 families will have a significant impact,” Bishar explained.
He further noted that the 30-month construction timeline would generate 300 short-term positions, followed by more than 300 permanent jobs once the project is operational.
Redefining sustainability
SILVA Gigiri is setting itself apart by moving away from imported designs that do not suit the local context. Bishar’s international experience with Singapore’s green urbanism and Italy’s nature-integrated architecture inspired him to develop a model specifically for Africa.
“For too long, Africa has borrowed from global designs that do not fully address our realities. With SILVA, we are choosing to build something original – something African, modern, and sustainable,” Bishar noted.
This sustainability extends to modern transport. To help mitigate Nairobi’s notorious traffic and reduce carbon emissions, the project includes infrastructure for electric vehicles (EVs).
“In fact, one thing we did not mention earlier is that SILVA has EV charging and EV biking. We actually want our residents to go out by biking. That is what sustainable building means,” said Bishar.
As ground-breaking begins within the next three months, SILVA Gigiri stands as a testament to what young Kenyan entrepreneurs can achieve.
It is not just a building; it is a statement that the future of African luxury is green, healthy, and locally driven.
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