Kenya Pushes REIT Reforms to Unlock Property and Infrastructure Capital
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Kenya is considering major REIT reforms to attract more investors and unlock billions for real estate and infrastructure. Industry leaders say outdated tax rules and regulatory uncertainty are holding the sector back
Kenya’s real estate industry is pushing for reforms to the country’s Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) framework as stakeholders seek to attract more domestic and international capital. Industry leaders argue that clearer regulations, tax consistency, and lower transaction costs are essential to accelerating market growth.
The sector remains relatively small despite growing demand for alternative investment vehicles. Stakeholders are calling for the reinstatement of tax incentives, including exemptions on certain property transfer costs, while also seeking greater clarity on which assets can qualify for REIT structures. Expanding eligibility to include digital infrastructure such as data centres and telecom towers could significantly widen investment opportunities.
Reform proposals also include moving away from complex trust-based structures toward more familiar corporate models that could improve governance and investor confidence. If implemented, the changes could position REITs as a key financing tool for both property development and large-scale infrastructure projects across Kenya.
Read the full story at The Kenyan Wall Street