International building-materials firm ABC Group has entered the Kenyan market with plans to expand its investment in the construction and home-improvement sector. The company has opened ABC Hauz, its 18th showroom in East Africa, along Mombasa Road in Nairobi. This move targets opportunities in residential construction, commercial development, renovation, and interior design. Kenya's construction sector recovers from a contraction, with a 6.8% growth in 2025.
The growth of Kenya's construction sector was driven by renewed infrastructure activity, including road construction and maintenance, increased residential building, and stronger demand for construction materials. According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics Economic Survey 2026, this growth recovers from a 0.7% contraction in 2024. Mohammad Rijaz, Executive Director of ABC Group, stated that the company's entry into Kenya is a long-term investment in a market with considerable potential for the building and construction industry.
Kenya faces a significant housing deficit, estimated at approximately 244,000 units annually, with an annual supply of fewer than 50,000 units. Industry players argue that addressing the housing challenge requires more than increasing the supply of building materials and housing units. Qualified professionals, appropriate material selection, compliance with building standards, and competent workmanship are crucial in ensuring safe and durable buildings.
George Ndege, President of the Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK), emphasized the importance of professionalizing the construction sector to address weaknesses in the built environment. AAK represents eight professions in the built environment and has about 5,000 registered members. Ndege stated that developers must engage qualified professionals, follow regulations, and use quality materials to ensure safe and durable buildings.
AAK has partnered with ABC Hauz to establish a Build Hub co-working space, promoting excellence in the built environment. This facility provides professionals with workspace and opportunities for collaboration, serving as an information centre for the public. Rijaz stated that the partnership aims to make professional design services and suitable building products more accessible, particularly for affordable housing projects.
Muhammed Madani, Founder and Managing Director of ABC Group, highlighted Kenya's importance in the company's expansion into innovation, design, and home improvement. The company plans to bring global design experience and new-age products to Kenyan customers, focusing on affordable luxury, quality, and accessibility. ABC Group also considers manufacturing in Kenya, particularly in furniture, doors, and windows production.
ABC Group has launched an e-commerce platform and a rewards application, Finch, to recognize the contribution of trade professionals. The company plans to expand its Kenyan experience centre, offering customized solutions across its product categories. Key points: ABC Group enters Kenya's construction market with an 18th showroom in East Africa; the Kenyan construction sector grew by 6.8% in 2025; and the company plans to invest in local manufacturing and design.
Key points
- ABC Group opens 18th showroom in East Africa, targeting Kenya's growing construction sector.
- Kenya's construction sector grew by 6.8% in 2025, recovering from a 0.7% contraction in 2024.
- ABC Group plans to invest in local manufacturing and design in Kenya.
