Mi Vida Homes Transitions to Local Ownership in Landmark Management Buyout
- Deejay Bluemoon
- Oct 15
- 3 min read
Introduction
In a groundbreaking move for Kenya’s property market, Mi Vida Homes , one of Nairobi’s leading residential developers, has officially transitioned to local ownership. The management-led buyout, spearheaded by CEO Samuel Kariuki, saw the local consortium acquire full ownership from the UK’s Actis and India’s Shapoorji Pallonji Kenya.
This milestone marks not just a change in ownership but a historic shift toward local capital empowerment in Kenya’s real estate sector.
Background: From Global Partnership to Local Power
Founded in 2018, Mi Vida Homes emerged from a joint venture between Actis and Shapoorji Pallonji Kenya, with the goal of addressing the shortage of affordable, green, and mid-market housing in Nairobi.
With an initial Ksh 12 billion investment (approx. $120 million), the company introduced modern developments that blended sustainability, affordability, and urban design excellence.
Over the years, Mi Vida Homes grew its project pipeline to include:
Amaiya Garden City
237 Garden City
KEZA Riruta
KEZA Laika
By 2025, its gross development value (GDV) had soared to Ksh 52 billion, cementing its place among Kenya’s top residential developers.
The Buyout: Local Management Steps Up
In October 2025, Mi Vida Homes’ leadership team, led by Samuel Kariuki, acquired 100% of the company’s shares, taking over from the founding international partners.
While the transaction value remains undisclosed, reports confirm the buyout is structured as a share purchase agreement, awaiting final regulatory approvals.
According to CEO Samuel Kariuki:
“With a stronger balance sheet, diversified capital base, and a healthy pipeline of projects, Mi Vida Homes is ready for its next phase of growth.”
Why This Matters: Kenya’s Real Estate Turning Point
1. Validation of Local Capital Strength
The buyout is a first-of-its-kind management-led acquisition in Kenya’s housing sector. It demonstrates growing confidence in local expertise and financing, traditionally dominated by foreign investors.
2. Exit Strategy for Global PE Firms
For Actis, this marks a successful completion of its 7- to 9-year investment cycle — a standard model in private equity. The smooth exit reinforces Kenya’s image as a mature, investable real estate market.
3. Sustainability and Governance
Mi Vida Homes has maintained high ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) standards, earning recognition for its green buildings and ethical project delivery. The transition to local ownership underscores the continuity of strong governance.
4. Signal to Investors and Diaspora
This buyout sends a clear message: Kenya’s real estate sector is ready for local and diaspora investors. The sector is now seen as a credible long-term wealth builder supported by institutional-grade developers.
What’s Next for Mi Vida Homes
Mi Vida is expected to expand its housing portfolio beyond Nairobi, tapping into emerging growth corridors such as Kiambu, Machakos, and Athi River.
The company’s future growth will likely focus on:
Affordable and sustainable housing models
Green-certified developments
Partnerships with local banks and REITs
Diaspora investment opportunities
“This transition proves that Africa’s real estate platforms can grow under local leadership and capital,” said Louis Deppe, Partner at Actis.
What It Means for Kenya’s Property Market
The Mi Vida Homes buyout sets a precedent, one that could inspire other developers to seek locally-driven growth. It also opens up conversations around:
Mobilizing local pension funds for real estate investment
Strengthening public-private partnerships (PPPs) in housing
Empowering Kenyan professionals to lead the next generation of property development
For investors, the shift underscores that Kenya’s housing market remains one of Africa’s most dynamic sectors, balancing innovation, sustainability, and profitability.
Final Thoughts
At Habibi Estate, we view Mi Vida’s buyout as a defining chapter in Kenya’s real estate story. It’s proof that local vision, backed by global experience, can drive sustainable growth and home ownership opportunities for Kenyans.
As the company moves into its next chapter, the message is clear, the future of Kenyan real estate is proudly local.
Comments