NAIROBI, Kenya -The National Social Security Fund (NSSF) has unveiled ambitious plans to construct two high-rise towers — one rising 60 storeys and another 35 storeys — at the junction of Uhuru Highway and Kenyatta Avenue in Nairobi’s central business district (CBD).
According to an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report submitted for approval, the proposed development will combine residential, commercial and leisure facilities as part of efforts to meet Nairobi’s growing demand for housing and modern business spaces.
The twin towers are expected to house office spaces, a business hotel, serviced apartments, retail outlets and an observation deck on the 56th floor, offering panoramic views of the city.
The project will also provide parking for more than 1,100 vehicles, easing pressure on limited CBD parking.
NSSF says the project will generate significant economic benefits, including direct and indirect job opportunities during both construction and operational phases.
“The proposed development will provide employment opportunities to a significant number of people, thereby reducing unemployment and improving livelihoods,” the Fund states in the EIA report.
The Fund also notes that the project will make optimal use of land that has remained undeveloped for years despite its prime location in Nairobi’s CBD.
“The proposed site has been undeveloped for some time, and the project shall utilise the parcels of land, raising their utility. The proposed use conforms to the area’s land use and is not unique in the general Nairobi Central Business District,” the report reads.
Beyond job creation, NSSF argues the towers will help ease Nairobi’s housing shortage while expanding commercial space in the city centre.
“Supply of standard and affordable housing has always lagged behind demand, and the proposed project will help reduce this deficit. The commercial premises will also enhance the provision of more commercial entities to the public,” the EIA notes.
The construction phase is expected to stimulate local industries through the use of locally available materials such as cement, concrete, ceramic tiles, timber, sand, ballast and electrical cables.
“This will contribute towards growth of the economy by increasing cash circulation and providing a ready market for suppliers such as quarrying companies and hardware shops,” the report adds.
NSSF further says the development will boost informal sector businesses, increase tax revenues for the government and enhance returns on investment for contributors through higher NSSF revenue generation.
Tourism is also projected to benefit from the inclusion of a hotel and commercial amenities within the towers.
However, the assessment acknowledges potential environmental and social impacts and outlines mitigation measures.
Vegetation loss will be addressed through landscaping programmes, while air pollution will be controlled by covering trucks, sprinkling water on dusty surfaces and providing protective gear for workers.
To reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the project will incorporate rooftop solar photovoltaic systems, energy-efficient designs and annual energy audits.
Fire risks will be managed through alarms, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers and designated no-smoking zones.
Traffic disruption in the busy CBD is expected to be minimised through scheduled material deliveries, use of trained flagmen and clear signage.
Noise pollution will be managed using sound barriers, equipment maintenance and protective gear for workers.
Other measures include strict occupational safety standards, proper sewerage systems, responsible waste management through NEMA-licensed contractors, water-saving fixtures and rainwater harvesting.
Security will be enhanced using guards, CCTV cameras and adequate lighting, while climate resilience strategies will focus on energy efficiency, reforestation and sustainable land management.
If approved, the project will mark one of the most significant developments by NSSF in Nairobi’s CBD, reshaping the skyline while positioning the Fund as a key player in urban regeneration.
