KPDA appoints Ahmed Badawy as it expands Coast operations

The Kenya Property Developers Association (KPDA) has appointed Ahmed Badawy to its board, as the industry lobby group steps up efforts to expand its presence along the Coast.

The association said the appointment is part of a broader push to strengthen engagement with developers outside Nairobi, including plans to establish a Coast region chapter to coordinate with local developers and county governments.

KPDA has in recent years indicated interest in deepening its footprint beyond the capital, with coastal counties such as Mombasa, Kilifi and Kwale attracting increased real estate activity driven by tourism, diaspora investment and demand for formal housing developments.

Badawy, whose company is involved in residential projects in Mombasa, said the Coast market continues to attract investor interest but requires improved coordination and planning frameworks to support sustainable growth.

Badawy, who is the Megna Homes chief executive, said demand was rising for planned developments supported by infrastructure, as the sector shifts away from informal settlement patterns.

The appointment comes as developers continue to expand into emerging markets outside Nairobi, although the sector still faces challenges including infrastructure deficits, regulatory processes and access to financing, according to industry stakeholders.

KPDA chairman Ken Luusa said the association was seeking to broaden its leadership structure as part of its wider institutional growth strategy.

The planned Coast chapter is expected to serve as a platform for engagement between developers and county governments on issues such as zoning, planning approvals and infrastructure development.

Industry players say such coordination mechanisms could help streamline project delivery, though outcomes will depend on implementation by both national and county authorities.

KPDA said it continues to position itself as a key industry body in shaping policy and engagement within Kenya’s real estate sector.