Opportunities and challenges facing East Africa’s real estate sector

East Africa is emerging as a prominent region in the global real estate industry, with exciting developments and potential opportunities on the horizon. Mark Dunford, Head of JLL East Africa, highlighted the region's growth prospects at the Development Finance Forum in Rwanda, shedding light on both the positive momentum and the challenges facing the real estate sector in Eastern Africa. The recent political stability in key countries like Ethiopia and Rwanda has paved the way for significant infrastructure projects and foreign investments, signaling a shift towards a more vibrant real estate landscape. The region's potential for growth is underscored by factors such as improved connectivity through new air hubs and a conducive investment environment. However, despite the optimistic outlook, there are persistent challenges that need to be addressed to fully realize the potential of the real estate sector in East Africa. From lengthy project timelines to currency fluctuations and bureaucratic obstacles, there are critical bottlenecks that require strategic solutions and collaborative efforts. The forum in Rwanda serves as a platform to explore innovative strategies and foster partnerships that can drive sustainable growth in the real estate industry and related sectors in East Africa.