In the heart of Kenya’s rapidly evolving landscape, the Kenyatta family’s Northlands City stands as a beacon of ambitious urban development.
With an estimated investment of Ksh 500 billion, Northlands City is not just a real estate venture; it embodies a vision for sustainable living, integrating residential, commercial, and recreational areas into a cohesive community.
In this article, WoA delves into the intricacies of Northlands City, exploring its potential impact on the region.
Project overview
Northlands City sprawls 11,576 acres, and will include residential, industrial, and commercial spaces, providing accommodation for approximately 250,000 people.
It is located in Ruiru, about 15 kilometers from Nairobi’s city center.
The land is owned by the Kenyatta family, who also operate Brookside, a dairy processor, and Gicheha Farm, a livestock-rearing business, on the site.
The area is well-connected, with the Eastern Bypass running through it.
Residential development plans
According to the Northlands City master plan, approximately 3,570 acres will be dedicated to housing.
This area will be divided into low-density, medium-density, and high-density residential zones.
Low-Density Housing: A total of 3,134 acres will be allocated for low-density housing, which will include 601 villas and 1,320 townhouses.
Medium-Density Housing: 130 acres will be set aside for medium-density housing, featuring 670 townhouses and 368 housing units in apartment blocks.
High-Density Housing: The high-density residential area will cover 306 acres and will feature 6,980 apartment units and around 3,100 townhouses.
Commercial and industrial zones
The master plan also includes significant areas for commercial and industrial development including the business district.
A 390-acre business district will be established, with 33 acres earmarked for a mall or hotel and two acres set aside for a clubhouse.
Additionally, 695 acres will be allocated to an industrial park, with an additional 650 acres dedicated to a logistics park.
Construction work, which began in October 2018, will see the plots connected to essential services, including roads, water, electricity, sewer systems and internet access.
Earlier reports have also indicated that the industrial land will be available for sale at Ksh 40 million per acre, with the developer investing in necessary infrastructure.
Open spaces and conservation areas
Northlands City is designed with ample green space and wildlife conservation areas.
1,697 acres will be dedicated to open recreational spaces, with 266 acres reserved for water features.
A large portion of the land—5,156 acres—will be reserved for wildlife conservation and agriculture, with Gicheha Farm being the main agricultural occupant.
Private airport facility
A standout feature of Northlands City is the inclusion of Northlands Aerodrome, a private airport equipped with a functional runway for private planes.
This will add a unique element to the city, enhancing its appeal to high-net-worth individuals and businesses.
The Northlands City master plan will be executed in four phases over the next 50 years.
The gradual rollout will ensure the development meets the long-term needs of its future residents and businesses, making it a key player in the region’s urban growth.
