- Project has been designed with a strong focus on sustainability, and its design choices have been rigorously assessed.
- National Housing Corporation has trained at least 35 of its staff on the IFC- Edge certification.
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The Homa Bay NHC Affordable Housing Programme project has received international approval for its environmentally friendly building strategies.
The project, which is being undertaken by the National Housing Corporation, has been awarded the EDGE Certification by the International Finance Corporation; a member of the World Bank Group.
The accomplishment has been attributed to a collaborative effort with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) which supported the certification process through their IFC-EDGE programme.
National Housing Corporation Managing Director David Mathu said the Homa Bay Affordable Housing project has been designed with a strong focus on sustainability, and its design choices have been rigorously assessed.
Predicted outcomes include energy savings ranging from an impressive 27 to 30 per cent, water savings of 32 to 37 per cent, and embodied energy savings of 52 to 62 per cent.
The statistics demonstrated a strong commitment to resource efficiency and environmental responsibility.
“This certification represents more than just a badge of honour; it signifies an exceptional level of environmental performance that will make a lasting impact on both the residents of the housing development and the broader community. The Homa Bay Affordable Housing Project is setting a new standard for sustainable urban development in Kenya,” Mathu said.
EDGE is a green building certification system focused on making buildings more resource-efficient.
The certification system enables developers and builders to quickly identify the most cost-effective strategies to reduce energy use, water use and embodied carbon in materials.
“This certification is not just a testament to the dedication and hard work of all those involved in this project, but it also signifies a significant step towards sustainable, affordable housing in Homa Bay,” he added.
“We are excited to share this accomplishment with the community and the world as we continue to strive for excellence in sustainable housing solutions. Together, we can build a brighter, greener, and more sustainable future for Homa Bay and beyond.”
The NHC has trained at least 35 of its staff on the IFC- Edge certification who have been equipped to advance the benefits to other projects being undertaken by the corporation.
“This event is also not only to celebrate this remarkable accomplishment but also serves as an inspiration for other projects especially those that have already commenced in Embu, Kirinyaga and Nyandarua counties,” the managing director said.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga noted that the Homa Bay AHP project is the first of this kind in Africa to get the EDGE certification.
“This means sustainability and comfort of the people who will be occupying the houses. This project is changing the county and this is the kind of transformation that is changing our country,” she said.
She added: “Our policy and legislative framework on climate change calls for the development of climate resilient housing in the county.”
Wanga said implementation of AHP contributes to the realisation of the county’s policy position.