Vacancy Announcement

Triad Architects is a leading architectural consultancy in East and Central Africa. The firm seeks to employ architects with 5 years experience with an emphasis on hospitals and health facilities to work on a major hospital project in Nairobi. Applicants must demonstrate skills in the preparation of working drawings, production information and room data sheets, and in the coordination of engineering design drawings.

Applications to be sent to recruit@triad.co.ke

The "Rogue" Ambassador Adresses Kenyan Architects during the AAK Chairman's Dinner

US Ambassador, Michael Ranneberger, who is quickly gaining fame as the "rogue ambassador" due to the current cable releases by Wikileaks was the chief guest at the AAK chairman's dinner held at Laico Regency on 9th December, 2010. His speech was broad and touched on both political and technical matters. The current saga involving Wikileaks was also briefly mention, although it was in the 'off the cuff' remarks. Below is a text version of the speech he made.



Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for that kind introduction. I'm very grateful for the invitation to address the End of the Year Gala Dinner of the Architectural Association of Kenya. This occasion brings together a gathering of one of the most important professional bodies of Kenya. It is an opportunity for me to reflect on some of the milestones and achievements of the past year, and on the challenges ahead. I would like to recognize the Association's remarkable and positive contributions to the Constitution-making process, including its commitment to passage of the draft in August, 2010.

The Architectural Association of Kenya seeks to ensure that international standards for the structures that you design are set professionally and met with complete integrity. Your organization helps the government of Kenya ensure that infrastructure and other physical development meet international standards. In doing so you are a model for Kenyans who seek change away from impunity toward more accountable and responsible government. From the establishment of the Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK) in 1967, you have made important contributions in planning, designing, and building Kenya's homes, towns and cities. I often speak in metaphors about the need for all Kenyans to participate in the process of building a new Kenya. With this group, I can speak literally. You really are responsible for physically building a new Kenya.

President Obama has often remarked on the importance of civil society. He said that the United States will "increase assistance for responsible institutions, with a focus on supporting good governance ... on the rule of law ... on civil participation ... and on concrete solutions to corruption." By upholding the highest standards of professionalism, you are a key component and driving force within civil society, exactly the kind of institution that President Obama had in mind.

The rapid expansion of the construction industry coupled with a weak regulatory regime has enabled corruption to flourish. It can take many forms - delays in architectural plan approvals, weak assessments from National Environmental Authority NEMA, and doubtful land titles. Kenya cannot afford to continue operating according to the "culture of impunity." The era when only the political class could decide on every issue is over. All citizens, and certainly the professional class, must be vigilant and vigorous in supporting political and economic reform, if Kenya hopes to achieve the levels of growth necessary to bring democratic stability and prosperity for all Kenyans.

A good example of this is the recent statement by one of your members - The Institute of Surveyors of Kenya - which provided its services to the GOK to help resolve the constituency boundary stalemate. Specifically, it was reported that the Institution of Surveyors of Kenya (ISK) chairman, Collins Kowuor, said that the government, through the defunct Interim Independent Boundary Review Commission (IIBRC), should have consulted them, instead of the politicians, before finalizing their report on the boundaries review.

I know that this is an issue about which all Kenyans are concerned and it is exemplary for the ISK -- one of your members -- to take up such a noble cause. I urge you to continue playing your part to ensure that the promise of better governance enshrined in the new constitution is realized. You can help set the tone for all Kenyans in the push to achieve fundamental change away from the culture of impunity and negative ethnicity.

You must stop to reflect on whether you have said with a sufficiently loud voice "Enough!" "Enough!" to some of the irregular procedures and decoys employed by unscrupulous and greedy individuals who may have little regard for the citizens who occupy the towns and rural areas of Kenya. "Enough!" to the irregular buildings that are erected without approval, or to corrupt participation of individuals who take road reserves, school grounds, hospital land and other public or state-owned property without due regard to the laid down law. "Enough!" to the constant reports about collapsed and poorly supervised buildings that continue to pose danger to innocent people.

Development and drafting of the new constitution was carried out in a transparent and inclusive manner, under the leadership of the Committee of Experts. There was a broad process of consultation and consensus with the civil society organizations, and Parliament was fully involved. This transparent and inclusive approach resulted in overwhelming approval of the constitution by a two-thirds majority.

Implementation of the new constitution is the centerpiece of that reform agenda and will provide the framework to enable reforms to be carried out, particularly with respect to the judiciary, the police, the executive, and devolution. While difficult, fundamental change can be realized in Kenya - because Kenyans across the political, economic, social, and ethnic spectrum want such change to take place.

Civil society must continue to pressure the coalition government to implement the reform agenda. Fragmented, divisive efforts will not prove sufficient, and the historic opportunity for fundamental change will be lost. Now is the time to set aside differences and to work together to push for implementation of the broader reform agenda, including accountability for post-election violence, and decisive steps against corruption, among other things.

In order to realize the enormous promise of the constitution, it is essential that the implementation process be carried out in a transparent and inclusive way. Critical components of the constitution must be implemented well before the onset of the 2012 electoral campaign to set up the institutional structures and safeguards which will help preclude another crisis. Therefore, there must be a sense of urgency, but there must also be a process of careful and meaningful consultation.

This is particularly important with respect to the key transformative aspects of the constitution: the Bill of Rights, restructuring executive power, setting up an independent and credible judiciary, establishing the new Parliament with its Senate and new constituencies, putting in place the new structure of devolved authority, and implementing the provisions relating to land issues, among others.

In mobilizing communities and citizens throughout the country, civil society must play a central role in supporting the implementation process and the passage of well-considered legislation. Civil society can do this through civic education, the fostering of a consultative and inclusive process, and pressure on legislators to consider the good of country rather than parochial and self-interests.

Three areas of implementation merit special scrutiny. First, the judiciary must be structured in a way which eliminates corruption and cronyism. This requires appointment of a Chief Justice and an Attorney General of the highest caliber and rigorous vetting of judges based on sound criteria. Let there be public discussion of the names under consideration. Second, appointments to all key government offices should be made in a transparent manner in a way which ensures the most qualified individuals will be chosen. Third, devolution must be implemented in a way which transfers real authority to the local level in a way that ensures accountability, and that brings communities together rather than exacerbating divisions.

Some observers have sounded concerns that the implementation process is being driven by a small group within the government and political structure without any real consultation with civil society. I think, however, it important that no one presume bad faith. At the same time, it is both appropriate and necessary that Kenyans follow the implementation process closely, insist that they be consulted and informed at every step, and that they ask their leaders tough questions about how implementation is being carried out in order to ensure that fundamental change will take place. Vested interests and the political establishment are realities that will change only over time as new institutions take hold and in response to domestic pressure and the realities of the new constitution. Implementation must not be allowed to take place through old-fashioned political deals dividing spoils behind closed doors. Dividing offices or responsibilities for implementation based on political affiliation or ethnic identification would be wrong - and send an entirely negative signal to the Kenyan people - that is not consistent with the spirit of the new constitution. There is a new dawn in Kenya, and the old ways of doing business are no longer appropriate - in the eyes of the Kenyan people and of the international community as well.

The United States partnered with Kenyans to helping resolve the post-election crisis, and in support of the constitutional review process. We will remain intensively involved to help ensure that the implementation process is carried out through a transparent, inclusive, credible process, and that the full reform agenda is implemented. That said, the onus for real change rests with the coalition government and the Kenyan people. The international community was only able to help resolve the post-election crisis because the Kenyan people themselves exerted decisive and peaceful pressure on their leaders. It is the responsibility of civil society to exert peaceful influence through the democratic process to ensure that the constitution is implemented in a way which results in fundamental change.

There are some striking similarities between the U.S. Constitution and the new one the Kenyan people have adopted. One striking similarity is the devolution of power from a highly centralized structure to one in which power is dispersed and diffused. Kenya's old constitution entrusted nearly all power into the hands of the executive - the President. The President not only appointed his Cabinet, but also had control of the Provincial Administration. The relationship between legislative and executive bodies was fluid. Legislative representatives also served at the heads of executive bodies, the ministries, and movement between them was common and fluid. It was a winner-take-all system that led to a win-at-all-costs mentality. It was the old system itself which laid the groundwork for the post-election violence of2008.

Under the new Constitution, that fluid relationship will be replaced by a healthy tension as power is divided between legislative and executive branches. In other words, there will be multiple winners. Even if your party's candidate doesn't win the Presidential election, your party may win governorships. Or represent the county as a Senator. Both the Senate and the Parliament will have expanded powers to check that actions of the executive. In addition, each county will be empowered to make resource allocation decisions based on local needs and priorities. In fact, those municipal elections will probably have far more impact on the lives of the constituents than the election for State House.

Look at what happened in the United States in November. Prior to the recent election, at the federal level the Democrats controlled the White House, Senate, and House of Representatives. At the State level, more than half of all governors were Democrats. The disenfranchised Republicans mounted a vigorous campaign that succeeded in toppling the Democrat majority in the House, decreasing the Democrats' majority in the Senate, and flipping a number of governorships to their side.

The frustration felt by certain segments of society over the past two years was vented in the election. US political leaders must now contend with what we call divided government. The Republicans who were elected now have a stake in making government work better for the people or risk being toppled themselves. No one side makes all the decisions, or always gets its way. The parties must choose to compromise or accomplish nothing. Just as President Obama must deal with a split legislature, many of the newly-elected State governors must also learn to work with their state legislatures. No one person or party has a monopoly on power. No one gets all the credit, and no one takes all the blame.

I'm not saying that a divided government is efficient. Winston Churchill said that "democracy is the worst form of government, except all the others that have been tried." It is often this very inefficiency that prevents a majority from disenfranchising the minority. The loyal opposition knows that it can return to leadership using the power of the pen in a polling station instead of the whack of a panga in the street.

Let me tum briefly to some of the technical issues involving the AAK, the United States has made several advances in low cost housing technologies allowing for rapid construction of safe, solid, and reliable housing. Some of that technology has already made its way into Kenya through the private sector. US companies such as Wall Ties and Forms have had their technology used on projects out in Athi River, as well as in a recent development for the local authorities in Shauri Moyo. Just last week, Lifetime Corporation launched low-cost housing in Buru Buru that will provide safe, affordable shelter for many Kenyans, and an American company is building low-cost housing outside of Mombasa. The presence of micro-finance institutions and banks at the launch should help create avenues for people to afford such homes.

It is up to Kenya to provide incentives for construction of low cost housing, in order for the technology to be widely accepted and adopted. Tax incentives would be a major boost to increase affordability of such homes and technologies. The United States already has introduced an array of incentives for low cost and green technologies, which are spurring growth in the housing market and gaining acceptance among American consumers.

Similar incentives by the Government of Kenya would do the same here. Your demand for housing continues to grow, mostly for middle to low-income housing. To see more of the innovative, highly-efficient, low-cost options that the United States has to help Kenya overcome an annual housing shortage of an estimated 300,000 homes, I would strongly encourage you all to attend the International Builders show held every January in Orlando, Florida. We have a group of 13 that have already signed up with the U.S. Commercial Service to travel this coming January.

With the landing of several fiber optic cables, and more expected, Kenya has emerged as a key Information Communications Technology (lCT) nerve centre for the region. The increased capacity opens up more opportunities for growing business ties with the United States. Kenya is already in the forefront of mobile commerce with several money transfer services available on mobile networks, and with projects such as the i-hub, an e-business incubation hub supported by several US ICT firms such as Google. Vision 2030 sees ICT playing a significant part in Kenya's growth and these opportunities need to be marketed. We would encourage Kenya to use its various channels such as Brand Kenya to market ICT opportunities here. You have growing internet capacity coupled with a well-educated work force, and these must be marketed in order for them to achieve full potential for the Kenyan economy and people.

There is clearly an important role to be played by the AAK in a number of areas. I have outlined but a few. I wish you much continued success in your endeavors and look forward to hearing of the strides which the association will undoubtedly continue to make. I am confident that the already strong partnership between the United States and Kenya will continue to grow. To use an architectural metaphor, the old order in Kenya is starting to crumble. The foundation of the edifice of the culture of impunity has developed hairline fractures, which are turning into fissures. It is up to you to help build the new Kenya, to help achieve the promise of the "new dawn" opened up by passage of the constitution.

Thank you.

AAK Chairman's Dinner

The Chairman, Architectural Association of Kenya  invites you to the 2010 AAK end of year Chairman’s Dinner  to be held on Thursday 9^th December 2010 at the  Laico Regency Hotel starting 6:30pm.

Entrance: Members – Single - Ksh. 2,000/- ,  Couples – Ksh. 3,500/-

Non Members – Ksh. 2,500/- per person

Corporate Tables available at Ksh. 25,000/-

Please make your advance booking by contacting AAK Secretariat on 2224806 / 0721 691 337 or by email: aak@aak.or.ke

The Nextgen Park

[caption id="attachment_1372" align="alignnone" width="640" caption="A perspective view of the Nextgen Park"][/caption]

This development project has already been approved by the City Council of Nairobi although the commencement date is not yet clear. As usual, the AK team has been unable to establish the entire team behind the project although credible leads indicate that Archigrid Systems are the lead consultants and project architects.

The information we are thus providing has been paraphrased from their brochure, which we must say, was lacking in terms of quality of presentation and imagery, save for the high quality paper used for the print and two images which were obviously downloaded from the internet, that of the theatre and gym. Click here to download the brochure in pdf. Discuss this development with regards to its scale, on whether Kenyans are ready for 'high rise' living and whether it is a plus or minus for the city of Nairobi.

[caption id="attachment_1371" align="alignnone" width="640" caption="Site layout plan of the Nextgen development. The Southern Bypass does not actually border the site, it is one or two plots further down"][/caption]

That aside, the park has been defined as the height of sophistication and Nairobi's new landmark of luxury. The park promises to redefine Nairobi's style with its ideal location, and is said to be at the cutting edge of 21st - century metropolitan living - the glamour of five - star hotel but within the confines of home.

[caption id="attachment_1370" align="alignnone" width="640" caption="The Nextgen commercial centre"][/caption]

The centre will have the following facilities for sale:-

• Ground floor supermarket


• Shopping mall of four floors to be served by escalators and lifts of various sizes.


• A dedicated floor with terrace open to sky - food court.


• Upper floors dedicated to office spaces.


• Offices at Medical plaza meant for doctor's.

[caption id="attachment_1369" align="alignnone" width="640" caption="Typical apartment floor plans"][/caption]

Additional features include a joggers park, high speed lifts, borehole water supply, 50 seat private theatre, Spa, Secured basement parking, Two acres of landscaped gardens, Fully fitted kitchen with appliances, standby generator to lifts & common areas, ground floor 24 hour concierge reception with intercom service, pent houses with observation deck overlooking the National park and pent houses with own private steam / sauna and open air Jaccuzzi.

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Mombasa may not survive the current urbanization wave, but will still live on, in photos.

Mombasa’s rich historical past has now been immortalised for posterity in a photographic collection.

This comes as the wave of modernisation slowly creeps on this centuries-old town, threatening to transform it irreversibly.

A small island town dotted with coconut palms, kanzu-clad men whiling away time on narrow pavements, people serving coffee from traditional Arabian urns and sites and sounds that go back centuries are part of Mombasa’s history.

But this face has been slowly changing as high-rise buildings replace the low Swahili designs and large thoroughfares take the place of winding narrow roads that characterised the old transport network.

In the new look town, it is only the Mackinnon Market; the old port where dhows carrying dried fish still dock; Castle Royal; Fort Jesus and some areas that still give one an idea of the beautiful past.

Despite this, Kenyans and other students of history will for many years to come be able to walk through old Mombasa, thanks to the photographic collection on a souvenir calendar produced by the National Museums of Kenya (NMK) and Friends of Fort Jesus (FFJ).

As the NMK marks 100 years of its existence, there is no better gift Kenyans can get than a glimpse of the past, a reminder of how far major towns like Mombasa have evolved to their present status.

Launched at Fort Jesus on Tuesday evening, the 2011 calendar contains historical photographs of old Mombasa, including those of the old port and the current Kilindini port.

The photos give an overview of what the old Mombasa used to be in terms of people and architectural designs.

One of the aims of the calendar is to celebrate the town’s rich history and capture the changes in the environment.

The Museums assistant director in charge of Coast region, Mr Athuman Hussein said: “There is a lot of education in the photographs.”

He was representing the NMK director, Dr Idle Farah.

The FFJ chairperson, Ms Marlene Reid, described the launch of the calendar as celebrating the past and preserving it for the future.

Ms Reid said the calendar is a product of the FFJ photographic collection that was started in 1981. She said the calendar also celebrates the spirit of cooperation between FFJ and the Fort Jesus Museum.

Ms Reid said she hoped they will make the photographic collection more valuable by having it professionally put on CDs for easy access and use.

Swahili furniture, pottery and other forms of art and craft are among the most sought products, yet research has shown that all these are being exploited by foreigners.

These, according to the acting director of the Research Institute of Swahili Studies of Eastern Africa, Mr Kassim Omar, are what will be the focus of the first furniture and furnishing exhibition to be held on the historic Mama Ngina Drive in Mombasa early next month.

The inaugural event, Mr Omar said, targets more than 30,000 people, among them artists and furniture owners.

It will highlight the role of creative industries as a vehicle of economic empowerment and a means of alleviating poverty within the communities in line with Vision 2030, he added.

The theme of the exhibition is “Economic Empowerment through Creative Cultural Industries” and is in line with NMK’s: “1910-2010: Celebrating a Century of Heritage Management”.

Already residents of Old Town will have an opportunity to showcase their rich Swahili cultural heritage at an evening bazaar supported by the French embassy and the Mombasa and Coast Tourist Association (MCTA).

The bazaar is taking the format of a successful one in Zanzibar called Forodhani and the Cape Town Waterfront in South Africa, which have become  major tourist attractions as they mirror the lifestyle of the olden days.

MCTA executive officer Millicent Odhiambo said the residents will be lining with their items along the roads from the Bank of India to Fort Jesus, showcasing the local Swahili culinary and dishes.

“This is a deliberate move to attract local and international guests to the Old Town and Fort Jesus by enhancing culture-based tourism.

“Through these exhibitions that will also include Swahili crafts, music and decorations, the residents, who have been taking a backseat in the development of tourism, will be part of the system,” she said.

Other efforts at preserving the rich cultural heritage of Mombasa include funding by the European Union through the Mombasa Old Town Conservation for restoration of dilapidated buildings in the Old Town of Mombasa and Lamu.

Source: Daily Nation

Before you buy that house........

We have previously discussed why you need to hire an architect when building your house, no matter how small the project seems. But, suppose you decide to buy an already built house, what are the important things to do consider before committing your funds?

Before one buys a house, whether old, newly built or in the construction stage, there are very important things to do, check and consider.

For most people, this is the biggest investment they will ever make, so a pragmatic approach to the whole process, especially on issues regarding the structural integrity of the building, any defects and any potential problems, access, is important.

Also of immense importance is the value of the property, restrictions on the title, zoning of the land on which the house stands, and whether its construction was sanctioned by the local authority — in which case it should have an occupation certificate.

Get a professional valuation and survey of the location before making the decision to buy. And, once you have settled on the location, do not be bogged down by shopping around for the house those suits you.

Once satisfied that you have found your desired home, zero in on the house itself to establish its structural integrity and functionality.

Indeed, before you sign a sale and purchase agreement, make it conditional that you have to be furnished with a satisfactory house inspection certificate, handed a title search and given local authority details on the house.

Inspecting your potential home with a professional who understands buildings is most advised because certain defects are not easily detected.

Here’s a check list for consideration in regard to old houses.

1 - Structural integrity:

The structural integrity of a building is very important as this is a matter of life and death. Check out for cracks that extend from the foundation to the top of the building as these could be a pointer to differential settlement, which means some part of the building is sinking, thus shearing at the point of difference. Such structural defects are difficult to rectify as the problem stems right at the foundation. Check if the building has a ring beam. These are used to span openings such as doors and windows as well as to tie the building together structurally.

2 - Roof:

Check for any sagging, leakages and whether the timber trusses are infested with termites. Are the gutters functional. A highly neglected house will have gutters that are full of soil. Check out for broken ridges and tiles in cases where the roofing material is concrete or clay. If it is galvanised sheets, rust will indicate a due date for re-roofing.

3 - Plumbing:

Check whether water closets, wash hand basins, kitchen sinks and bath tubs are functioning properly — and without leakages and blockages. Is an overhead cold water storage installed? If it is, check out for leakages and the overflow pipe to ascertain that the ball valve, usually inside the tank, is working. The same, diligent inspection of electrical installations is also very important. A neglected building affects its overall integrity, as well as your safety when you move in.

4 - Finishes:

Check the floor. If is wood parquet, look out for signs of termite infestation. If infested, that means the building was not treated properly against termites, and that mean your doors, windows, wardrobes and cupboards will be food to the pests.

Source: Daily Nation

The Kshs 200Billion Tatu City in Ruiru

Tatu City is a mixed-use environment that will be home to 62 000 residents who will live, work and play within this community and it will host 23 000 visitors every single day.

Background

Nairobi, the largest multicultural city in Kenya, has a population of over three million people. It lies between Kampala and Mombasa, close to the Rift Valley. To the east are the Ngong hills, to the north Mount Kenya and Mount Kilimanjaro to the south-east. The Masai Mara and Amboselli game reserves are within easy reach.



Nairobi's airport, Jomo Kenyatta International, is the largest and busiest in East and Central Africa - with over 49 airlines servicing the Kenyan market. The Eastern Bypass highway, currently under construction, will link the airport to Tatu City.



But with the rapid growth of the recent decades Nairobi has suffered the effects of unconstrained urbanization. The city fathers are now faced with one of two challenges:

• Rebuild major parts of the city, with all the disruption this involves, or


• Create a new, modern urban node, as envisaged in the Nairobi Metro 2030 Plan, which encourages relocation of both commercial and residential developments outside of the CBD.

The above challenges are what led the team involved to come up with the idea of 'Tatu City'.

Tatu City is a nodal development – each node contains distinct facilities including open spaces and public environments interconnected by a public transport system as well as pedestrian walkways. The following are the key characteristics:-

• Low Density Residential Neighbourhoods


• Medium to High Density Residential Neighbourhoods


• Primary & Secondary Urban Nodes


• Central Business Spine


• Mixed Use Spine


• Suburban Business Nodes


• Tourism & Conference Facilities


• Light Industrial, Warehousing & Infrastructure

Tatu City promises to offer a first-world support infrastructure incorporating the following:

• Paved Roads & Walkways


• Potable Water Supply System


• First World Sanitation


• Solid Waste Disposal Systems


• Electricity Supply Systems

A total of ten development phases are envisaged - some of these could be developed simultaneously, as demand requires. The starting point of the entire development concept is the environment, with over 35% of the land set aside for natural green belts. A further 15% has been earmarked for world-class infrastructure development.



The primary focus will be Phase 1 A which comprises the development of the Primary Urban Node, the high density residential precinct directly north of the node as well as a portion of the Tourism and Conference Precinct to the south of the east-west arterial.



Phase 1 B, which lies to the west of Phase One A, comprises of the Techno Park as well as a Low Density Residential Neighbourhood.



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Is Nyali the 'Upper Hill' of Mombasa?

A construction boom is taking place in Mombasa’s Nyali area as the Nyali Bridge traffic jam discourages people from driving down town. Land is also shrinking in the island leaving no space to put up office blocks.

As a result, Nyali is now being seen by investors as the next investment frontier as office blocks come up, which has seen the value of land there double in the past three years.

Property developers, architects, doctors, ICT companies, shipping lines, construction companies and hardware dealers have already established bases in Nyali.

The hitherto quiet part of Mombasa has thus been replaced by the hustle and bustle of a growing town with construction work going on 24 hours a day. The result? Mombasa is now expanding further afield to Vipingo, about 20 kilometres away on Malindi Road.

However, concerns are emerging on whether Nyali, previously owned and planned for high-end residential houses has adequate amenities to support this transformation.

It means that Nyali will have to have modern facilities such as fibre optic connectivity and bio-digestive systems to manage waste. Well designed car parks as well.

Already shopping malls are accommodating supermarkets while recreational grounds, such as the Nyali Golf Club and the Wild Waters Entertainment Park, are easing off pressure from the down town.

It would also appear that market dynamics are working in favour of Nyali. The area is home to a sizable middle class, which according to developers, already provides sufficient demand for such developments.

In May the Housing Finance Corporation of Kenya launched its first commercial property venture in Mombasa and is financing a Sh180 million office space complex in Nyali.

HFCK managing director, Mr Frank Ireri, says the construction of the six-storey block Links Plaza in Nyali is aimed at reducing pressure on Mombasa Island and providing office space outside the town for convenience.

“Due to population growth, Mombasa has become crowded and there is need to move out of town so that services are not stretched further. This is happening in Nairobi where offices are moving out of the central business district.”

The bank will finance 70 per cent of the cost of the project and the developers are introducing a unique concept in which businesses will obtain mortgages to enable them to own offices rather than relying on renting, says the bank’s director of property supply Moses Wekesa.

“We will provide finance for premise ownership running up to 12 years and business owners will have the advantage of subletting any space they do not need,” says Wekesa. The building will be ready for occupation by the end of next year.

The project architect, Titus Kipsang of Symbion International says the building will have a backup-generator, fibre optic connectivity, solar powered common lighting system, 24-hour CCTV surveillance, secure parking and splendid ocean views.

However, one of the major challenges facing this development is lack of supportive amenities such as water and sewerage systems since the initial plan for the area didn’t put into consideration such huge developments.

Some plot owners in Nyali have also protested that they are being deprived of their privacy and have gone to court to block construction. According to Mombasa Town Clerk Tubman Otieno, Nyali residents should live with the realities of Mombasa’s expansion.

“We must accept that Mombasa town has grown over the years but there has been no Municipal resolution to control development of houses,” says Tubman adding that the municipality was developing a master plan.

According to Tubman, the municipality will benefit from a $15 million (Sh1.2 billion) fund from the World Bank to upgrade the sewerage system covering a 17-kilometre radius that will include Nyali it plans to “concessionise” roads and improve waste management system by partnering with the private sector.

“We are even mulling over floating an infrastructure bond of between five to ten billion shillings to finance various projects the council is undertaking,” says Tubman.

In regard to water, the Coast Water Services Board (CWSB) says it will present a sewerage investment plan to the Water ministry mid next year, for approval after which it will seek funding to develop a sewerage system.

“Once the plan is complete we hope to pump in about $3 million (Sh240 million) in the project’s initial stages,” says CWSB chief executive officer Maro Tola. But according to some qur developers should also take the initiative of coming up with measures to provide fresh water as a matter of urgency rather than wait for these projects that might take long thus delaying developments.

“Rain water can provide up to 40 per cent of the water needs of an office block and developers should put in place infrastructure to harvest it. Other measures such as de-salination of sea water can also address this problem,” says a developer.

Source: Daily Nation

Austin-Smith : Lord Vision for Nairobi 2030

In January 2010, a UK-based firm, Austin-Smith:Lord,  together with its Kenyan partners Saad Yahya & Associates and engineering firm Mott Macdonald were shortlisted along with 5 others to develop a concept for the Nairobi 2030 Metropolitan Spatial Plan. Consulting Engineering Services from India Ltd. were the eventual winners.

[caption id="attachment_1300" align="alignnone" width="640" caption="New ICT Park at Konza"][/caption]

There are 4 regions that compromise the Nairobi Metro Region area. The city area of Nairobi measures 684 sq kilometres alone, with the larger metro area covering 3,000sq. km. The land of Nairobi’s region falls from the edge of the Rift Valley in the west at an elevation of 2,300 metres, to 1,500 metres to the east of the city, with the centre of the city standing at 1,700 metres. Nairobi was a staging post for agrarian and pastoral tribes. In the early 1900’s the trading boundaries were stretched from Uganda through Nairobi to Mombasa on the coast. The UAE has invested in broadband for all. Digital trade has started.

[caption id="attachment_1302" align="alignnone" width="640" caption="Greening the City: Nairobi River + Kibera"][/caption]

The total population of the Region increased from 1.36 million in 1979 to roughly 3 million in 1999, with an anticipated growth to 5 million by 2015. The last master plan made in 1970 has not been revised since and many of the issues unchecked, unplanned, unresolved some 40 years on.

[caption id="attachment_1303" align="alignnone" width="640" caption="Sustainable Rural Communities"][/caption]

Consider Africa’s largest informal settlement of Kibera, that has established itself + grown to the west of Nairobi. It is now a locally run organism of houses, shops, schools, surgeries and small businesses. Previously an unhealthy environment, its residents have taken control. There are many such organisms that have grown like viruses across Nairobi attaching themselves to the city’s fringes. Some better, some worse. Can man’s viral instinct - work from the small scale up to the metro scale - contribute to future planning ideas and decision making?

[caption id="attachment_1304" align="alignnone" width="640" caption="Nairobi Metro Plan 2030"][/caption]

Giraffes and other migrating animals in the national park stand in stark silhouette to the urban back drop of flyovers, traffic and buildings to the adjacent central Nairobi. People walk between home and work because they cannot afford ‘matatu’ taxi’s or buses. Wildlife in the park are stopped in their tracks seasonally because of man’s encroachment on their land. Nairobi was the green capital of Africa.

[caption id="attachment_1305" align="alignnone" width="640" caption="Nairobi Metro Plan 2030 Topographic"][/caption]

We wish to re-green the city by opening, improving and cleaning up the city’s arteries. It’s roads, rail, rivers and water ways to allow free passage.

[caption id="attachment_1306" align="alignnone" width="640" caption="Nairobi 2030 Metropolitan Master Plan, Board"][/caption]

We propose small – medium and long distance radius ‘rings’ of infrastructure; systems of road, rail, sewage and clean-water supply and storage. We propose to link new and existing towns across the existing network of roads, river and rail lines, providing each town with it’s own political, economic, social and infrastructural identity.

[caption id="attachment_1307" align="alignnone" width="640" caption="Nairobi 2030 Metropolitan Master Plan, Board"][/caption]

Nairobi stands at a cross roads.  All Nairobi’s considerable energy, beauty and resource are in balance. Growth and change best happens from within. Any new scheme for the region has to use people and materials sustainably.

[caption id="attachment_1311" align="alignnone" width="640" caption="Nairobi 2030 Metropolitan Master Plan, Board"][/caption]

[caption id="attachment_1308" align="alignnone" width="640" caption="Nairobi 2030 Metropolitan Master Plan, Board"][/caption]

[caption id="attachment_1309" align="alignnone" width="640" caption="Nairobi 2030 Metropolitan Master Plan, Board"][/caption]

[caption id="attachment_1310" align="alignnone" width="640" caption="Nairobi 2030 Metropolitan Master Plan, Board"][/caption]

[caption id="attachment_1301" align="alignnone" width="640" caption="Nairobi 2030 Metropolitan Master Plan, Board"][/caption]

Source: Bustler

World Town Planning Day

The World is once again set to mark the World Town Planning Day on 8^th November 2010. This is a day that the International Community has set aside to reflect on the state of planning, development and management of world cities and urban settlements.

You are all invited to join the World community in marking this important annual event.

Venue: Kenyatta International Conference Centre, (KICC), Nairobi starting from 8am

Organized by:

The Architectural Association of Kenya(AAK Town Planners Chapter) andInternational Society of City & Regional Planners, The Hague / Netherlands (ISOCARP)

Key Partners:

UN-Habitat, Ministry of Lands, ODPM and Ministry of Local Government, Ministry of Housing, Ministry of Nairobi Metropolitan Development and City Council of Nairobi

Contact the Architectural Association of Kenya for more information.

Jobs at PLANNING

Architects and Architectural Assistants Jobs at Planning Systems Services Ltd,  Chartered Architects - Land Use Planners - Project Managers in our  Nairobi & Mombasa Offices

We are seeking to make a limited number of architects and architectural assistants appointments.

Skills required:

• Excellent design awareness, practical on site experience and sound detailed technical knowledge.


• Evidence of reliability and responsibility.


• Proven communication, spoken, written and drawn skills, including 2 and 3 dimensional hand drawing abilities.


• Proficiency in AutoCAD 2007 and above.


• Proficiency in presentation skills using Photoshop, InDesign and/or CorelDraw.


• 3D modeling skills and renderings preferable with Revit, Sketchup, Rhinoceros, 3ds Max and/or ArchiCAD.

Applicants should address their applications to the Managing Director through careers@planningkenya.com

All applications must include proven evidence of the requirements detailed above, and must be accompanied by computer and hand drafted original personal work, references and referees.

A competitive package and excellent career opportunities available for successful applicants.

Planning House, Lower Kabete Road, P 0 Box 188, Sarit Centre 00606 Nairobi Kenya. Tel : 254-20-41806501112,

Investors seek to cash in on planned bypass

The planned construction of a bypass linking Mombasa island and the South Coast is attracting investors seeking to cash in on the benefits of enhanced infrastructure.

South Coast, whose main town is Diani, had been given a wide berth by investors due to ferry delays at the Likoni channel.

Transport minister Amos Kimunya said the construction of the Dongo Kundu bypass would start before the end of the year.

Mr Kimunya said that construction of the road, which will start at Miritini through Dongo Kundu and end at Lunga Lunga in South Coast, would commence after tendering is finalised.

“The South Coast has great potential which needs to be exploited to the fullest. This will be made possible by this road,” the minister said.

Ministry of Roads PS, Engineer Michael Kamau, said bids for the construction of the multi-million bypass would be issued as soon as the minister endorses the plan.

He said the much-awaited project had been hit by a misunderstanding among different government agencies over the routing, a matter he added had been resolved for the 18km road that would also create special economic zones in Changamwe and the South Coast.

“The increased economic growth and the population demands that the flow of traffic and goods is uninterrupted and this can only be realised through a bypass in Dongo Kundu,” he said.

The South Coast has in the last few months witnessed massive construction and setting up of amenities such as banks, supermarkets, private schools and hospitals.

“All the major banks have branches in Diani and we are now witnessing the explosion of high-rise buildings to capitalise on available land,” said Mr David Ndirangu, proprietor of Masai Cottages and Masai Bureau nightclub.

Palm Beach Hospital proprietor, Dr Lalit Kotak, said economic development in the area would increase if the bypass is constructed.

Mombasa and Coast Tourist Association executive officer Millicent Odhiambo said the bypass would benefit not only the tourism but every sector of the economy.

Source: Daily Nation

Vacancies for Lecturers - 4 Posts

The Department of Real Estate and Construction Management at the University of Nairobi wishes to engage lecturers in the area of Quantity Surveying and Construction Management on both full time and part time  basis.

Applicants should be holders of a Ph.D degree in at least one of the following areas; - Building Economics, Construction Management, Construction Project Management, Building Management, Quantity Surveying, Architecture and Building Technology. Holders of a Masters degree with minimum three (3) years teaching experience at University level will also be considered.

Applicants should have a minimum of two (2) publications in refereed journals or two (2) chapters in scholarly books or two (2) strong project portfolios and evidence of continuing research activity. They must be registered with the relevant registration Board and professional organization or show evidence of registration. The first degree in the above areas of specialization will be an added advantage.

The successful candidate will be expected to teach at both postgraduate and undergraduate degree courses. He /She will also be expected to undertake research in his/her areas of specialization. Interested persons wishing to apply for these positions may contact Dr. Mary Kimani, Chairman, Department of Real Estate and Construction Management on email: mkimani65@uonbi.ac.ke for further information.

You are Never Entirely Safe from Lightning – Kenneth Oigo

[caption id="attachment_1279" align="alignnone" width="640" caption="Image coutersy of Advanced Lighting Systems, http://advancedlightningsystems.com/"][/caption]

As we all learned during our physics lessons — at least those of us who paid attention — Benjamin Franklin discovered that a lightning bolt striking an elevated grounded rod follows a path of least resistance to earth.

This discovery, if we may call it thus, advanced fire safety considerably in those days — and still holds true today.

The installation of rods — also known as air terminals because they are termination points for bolts of lightning in the air — and a series of horizontal and vertical straps or wires connected to ground rods make up the classic definition of a Lightning Protection System (LPS).

An LPS can thus be defined as a path of least resistance for lightning as it travels from the point of interception to earth.

Lightning can at times be arbitrary, random and unpredictable, and has been known to strike buildings or targets on the ground that are up to four kilometres from the lightning cloud.

As a result of recent technological advancements in the construction industry, buildings nowadays are not made of simple wooden structures as was the case in the 18th century, when the first conductors were invented.

Most modern buildings are made up of structural steel, reinforced concrete, metal claddings, steel roof framework, cast iron waste pipes, copper gas pipes in walls, cable TV wiring, telephone wiring, electrical wiring, metal door and window frames, etc.

If lightning strikes an LPS on a structure, it is possible that the high voltage electricity may be transferred to the unintended conductors listed above, posing a huge danger to all people in their vicinity.

The magnetic effects of lightning may also affect these conductors, and his poses a huge danger to phone users during thunderstorms, those taking showers during thunderstorms, washing dishes at the kitchen sink, working with electrical appliances during thunderstorms, or leaning on metal doors or windows.

Therefore, despite the fact that buildings may be fitted with lightning arresters and a sophisticated LPS, it is important to refrain from these activities to minimise the risk posed to us.

The risk from indirect lightning strikes is considerably high and, as such, the LPS is of no merit during indirect lightning strikes.

Therefore, detailed attention should be paid to bonding, grounding, and surge protection of the building and its electrical accessories.

Email the Author:

Source: Daily Nation

The International Builders Show, Orlando Florida, January 12-15 2011.

The International Builders Show will be held on 11th – 15th January 2011 in Orlando, Florida.

This show is suited for architects, engineers, contractors and quantity surveyors and is the largest annual trade show in the world for the residential and commercial building industry, showcasing more than 1,900 manufacturers and suppliers and covering in excess of one million net square feet of exhibit space. The show offers the largest display of residential and commercial building industry products and materials in more than 200 construction product categories and attracts more than 103,000 professionals from nearly 100 countries.

The US Commercial Service desk in Nairobi has already commenced preparation for the Kenya delegation to the show.

It is anticipated that all persons attending the show will complete pre-requisite processes (registration, VISA facilitation and making required payments) by 30th November 2010 and a travel package is being arrange. Details regarding the costs of travel will be communicated to all interested participants shortly.

All interested participants who are also AAK members to get in touch with the AAK secretariat for more information and registration. In the meantime, online pre-registration can be done online by clicking here.

Vacant Position - CAD Technician/Junior Architect

Triad Architects invites applications for a position as CAD technician or junior architect whose principal draughting programme must be AutoCAD.   Applicants should have a minimum of 5 years experience in a busy office.   An attractive salary will be offered to the right candidate.  Applications with detailed curriculum vitae, names, emails and addresses of three referees and daytime telephone contact should be sent by email to the HR Director using recruit@triad.co.ke.   Closing date for the applications is 22^nd October 2010.  Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

Kibaki tells Architects, “You are Damn Expensive.”

Kenya's President Mwai Kibaki has challenged professionals in the construction industry to partner with the government to facilitate swift implementation of projects that will improve the social welfare of citizens.

President Kibaki noted that prohibitive consultancy fees charged by professionals in the industry frustrated project implementation apart from making even ordinary projects unattainable.

He said that there was need to tackle temptations of inflating consultancy fees adding that they must reflect realistic cost and asked the Architectural Association of Kenya to deal with the matter.

The Head of State noted that projects that directly benefited Kenyans were unnecessarily overpriced thus frustrating government’s efforts to improve the living standards of wananchi.

The President made the remarks on Monday when he met members of the Architectural Association of Kenya at his Harambee House Office.

The Head of State affirmed that many ordinary Kenyans intuitively knew the realistic cost of undertaking simple projects such as constructing a common classroom or other similar projects.

Urging the professionals to strive in meeting the expectations of the rural poor, President Kibaki noted that most of the construction materials were locally available, hence the need to price projects realistically.

He noted that many professionals were driven by the desire to make huge earnings, causing anguish to many Kenyans.

He challenged professionals to partner with government as the country embarked on an ambitious infrastructural development programme.

The Head of State told the professionals comprising architects, quantity surveyors, town planers, engineers, environmental design consultants and construction project managers that the government had channelled substantial funds through initiatives like the Constituency Development Fund.

The President noted there was need for prudent utilisation of the funds because of the many other public projects that needed funding across various sectors of the society.

Speaking during the occasion, Public Works Minister Chris Obure said the government was keen to work closely with the AAK particularly in developing the country’s infrastructure.

Mr Obure, however, decried the high rate at which qualified staff exited the public service for other lucrative appointments in the private sector, thus endangering the delivery of quality service to the public.

On his part, AAK Chairperson Mr Steven Oundo thanked President Kibaki and his government for rolling out one the most ambitious infrastructural development in the country’s history.

Mr Oundo affirmed that AAK was keen on partnering with the government in making Kenya a better country through the implementation of various development projects aimed at unlocking the country’s economic potential.

In attendance were Head of Public Service and Secretary to the Cabinet Amb. Francis Muthaura, Public Works Permanent Secretary Prof John Lonyangapuo and other senior government officials.

Source: Daily Nation

Condolence Message - Mr. Baldip Singh Rihal

The Architecture Kenya team has learnt, with great shock, of the death of Mr. Baldip Singh Rihal who passed away on 5^th October 2010.

The late Baldip Singh Rihal is a former Chairman of the Association of Professional Societies in East Africa (APSEA) as well as the Institution of Surveyors of Kenya (ISK). He also represented professional associations as a delegate at the National Constitutional Conference at the Bomas of Kenya.

He will be greatly missed by the entire professional community in the country for his dedication and contribution to the development of the surveying profession in the country.

We send our sincerest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.

May his soul rest in peace.

Training Architects is an Expensive Affair

The Architecture Kenya team would like to register its support for Hon. William Ruto's plans to reform the higher education system in Kenya.

The proposal to expand universities and introduction of strategies to accommodate more qualifiers is long overdue. Every passing year, the number of students qualifying for university increases while the capacity of our higher education institutions remain the same.

Pegging the number of students admitted to bed space availability at the university is a barbaric criteria that needs to be done away with. The universities would ironically go ahead and admit even more students under 'module II' (the very popular parallel system) thus putting to question their 'lack of space' excuse. The motivation has seemingly been the amount of money 'module II' students pay which is way above the combined amount their 'module I' counterparts pay in addition to the support the government offers per student.

Also, courses like Architecture, Engineering, Medicine and other sciences are an expensive affair as compared to Humanities and Social Sciences. Whereas the former require more in terms of equipment, space and even attention by teaching staff, the latter are more demanding in terms of literature material and can be disseminated to large groups of students at a go without jeopardizing on their quality. It is thus unrealistic to provide equal funding to these courses that have entirely different requirements.

The above comments we are making are not new. They have been on the cards for years, but were never implemented for lack of political will. Several commissions and task forces established in the past decade have always recommended a change in university funding mechanism: that government funding to universities should be based on the cost of mounting courses rather than the number of students admitted.

Whereas the changes are commendable, Mr Ruto and his team must avoid the temptation to hurry up at a speed the universities cannot manage. Experiences of the late 1980s and early 1990s when universities were forced through crash admission programmes were woefully regrettable. Their negative impacts are still being felt today.

University education must be changed, but the process must be judicious and consultative devoid of political theatrics and chest-thumping.

The Architecture Kenya Team.