About

BACKGROUND 

The East African property market has witnessed significant growth over the past years. In 2020, the real estate sector began on a high note but was impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, particularly in terms of access to finance. Most real estate developers had to rely on banks as their primary source of funding. To address this issue, the real estate industry players created various innovative products e.g., joint venture models and structured products to raise capital.  In a bid to bridge this gap and further develop the Capital Markets, the Kenyan Capital Markets Authority (CMA) in 2013 put in place REITs regulations for developers to try and to raise capital. This regulatory framework has been in existence in Kenya for the past 8 years and we have witnessed successful stories in the market. 

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) have emerged as a significant investment vehicle worldwide, providing opportunities for individuals and institutions to invest in real estate assets. In East Africa, REITs are gaining momentum as an alternative investment instrument, allowing investors to participate in the real estate market and benefit from the income generated by rental properties, capital appreciation, and diversification. The market capitalization of REITs in the region is growing remarkably but there is still a significant potential for growth hence the need to explore ways to build momentum for a thriving future in REITs for East Africa. 

CONFERENCE OBJECTIVE 

The conference aims to explore and unlock the power of REITs in East Africa, fostering discussions among industry experts, policymakers, investors, and real estate professionals. It will provide a platform to discuss the current state of REITs in the region, identify challenges, and highlight opportunities for growth and development. 

KEY TOPICS 

• Outlining of the Conference Objectives
• Economic & Sector Review and Updates/Building Momentum
• Keynote Address by a Global Industry Leader - Global Learnings and Experiences
• Presentation on REITS from International Speakers
• Panel Sessions
• The REIT Toolkit and Incubator Program, the Masterplan & Strategy
• Investor Education and Awareness
• Technical Training Sessions
• Pitch Sessions
• Master Class
• Networking opportunities (Opening Cocktail & Gala Dinner)

TARGET AUDIENCE 

The conference is designed for a diverse range of participants, including: 

• Real estate developers, investors, and asset managers
• Financial institutions, including banks and insurance companies
• Government officials and policymakers involved in real estate regulations
• Legal and financial advisors specializing in REITs
• Real estate professionals, including brokers, appraisers, and property managers

EXPECTED OUTCOMES 

• Increased awareness and knowledge of the potential of REITs as a tool for economic growth and development in the East African region.
• Enhanced collaboration and partnerships among stakeholders in the real estate sector, including policymakers, investors, and real estate professionals for the growth of REITs.
• Identification of policy and regulatory reforms needed to promote the development of REITs in the region.
• Exploration of investment opportunities in the East African real estate market and how REITs can be used to access these opportunities.
• Identification of opportunities for collaboration between stakeholders in the region to promote the development of REITs and real estate development in the region.
• Dissemination of best practices and lessons learned from successful REIT projects.

Participants will have the chance to engage in meaningful discussions, share experiences, and build connections with key players in the REIT industry. 

Note: The topics and structure outlined above are preliminary and subject to further customization based on the specific needs and preferences of the organizing committee.  

Speakers

 
For more details regarding sponsorship packages & delegate tickets, please contact Amina Abdi, RAK Senior Administrator on Tel. Office - (020) 2831000- or raksecretariat@nse.co.ke / aabdi@nse.co.ke