Dr. Ekrah Ndung’u Applauds Realtors for Impacting Lives, Encourages Innovation in Real Estate Sector

In a keynote address at the Association of Real Estate Stakeholders event, Dr. Ekrah Ndung’u, National Chairperson of the Kenya National Association of Private Colleges, commended the vital contributions of realtors in helping Kenyans achieve the dream of property ownership. Dr. Ndung’u expressed her gratitude to Kinyua Wa Iratu, the association’s chairman, for the invitation and used the platform to emphasize the importance of collaboration and professionalism within the real estate industry.

“Associations are crucial in organizing a sector and bringing structure,” Dr. Ndung’u noted, stressing the need for industry players to work together for the sector’s success. She acknowledged the significant role of realtors in subdividing land and making homeownership accessible to many Kenyans. “Keep doing it,” she urged, “you’re helping people achieve their dreams of owning assets.”

The event also recognized the achievements of top real estate firms, including Maono Lands, Optiven Ltd, Nyota Njema, Champion Homes, Almond Real Estate, and Hyssops Ltd, highlighting their outstanding contributions to the industry. Dr. Ndung’u praised these companies as role models, emphasizing their influence on Kenya’s economic growth and development.

Addressing the evolving trends shaping the future of real estate, Dr. Ndung’u pointed out the increasing influence of technology, particularly AI, automation, and blockchain, which are transforming property management and transactions. The rise of smart homes, featuring Internet of Things (IoT) technology and energy-efficient solutions, is meeting the growing demand for sustainable living. As remote work becomes more common, larger homes with dedicated office spaces are becoming more desirable, while adaptive reuse of office spaces for mixed-use or residential purposes is gaining traction.

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are revolutionizing property viewings, making them more interactive and accessible. Blockchain technology is set to enhance transparency and security in property transactions, providing more reliable and efficient processes.

Despite the challenge of rising property prices, Dr. Ndung’u highlighted efforts by developers and the government to address the issue, with a focus on affordable housing solutions, including modular construction to reduce costs. She noted that smart cities and mixed-use developments are becoming increasingly important, offering integrated living options that align with the needs of a rapidly urbanizing population.

Dr. Ndung’u also urged realtors to view real estate as an attraction for tourism, citing the example of Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, a monumental building that has put the city on the global map. She encouraged industry professionals to think beyond just providing housing, and instead consider how their developments could enhance the country’s tourism and cultural significance.

In closing, Dr. Ndung’u reminded real estate professionals that their future clients are millennials and Generation Z, who prioritize work-life balance, sustainability, and convenience. These younger generations are more inclined to seek properties that offer all essential amenities, and they are less interested in accumulating material possessions. By understanding and adapting to these evolving preferences, realtors can better meet the needs of tomorrow’s homeowners.

Dr. Ndung’u’s speech was a call to action for the real estate sector to continue driving innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, ensuring that the industry remains a key driver of Kenya’s economic growth and transformation.