As malls rise, Kisumu skyline changes

Kisumu is slowly becoming centre of architectural excellence in the western Kenya region as developers put up some of the most prestigious developments in its history.

This, coupled with increased investor confidence in the lakeside city, has easily earned it a place as one of the most sought after investment destinations.

The town’s central business district has long been home to low-rise houses dating back to colonial times. However, the trend is now slowly changing, thanks to an increased interest by investors and developers.

Some of the new buildings changing the skyline include West End Mall, Acacia Hotel, Tuff Foam Mall, University of Nairobi building and Imperial Express Hotel.

Kisumu, the third largest town in the country, has in the past, despite its economic potential, failed to attract impressive architecture and commercial buildings.

Matters have also been complicated by delays in confirming the town as a city due to what governor Jack Ranguma describes as poor planning and a slum situated just a kilometre from its centre.

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The town was conferred city status upon enactment of Urban Areas and Cities Act (2011), but Governor Jack Ranguma has failed to establish a management board to oversee its administration.

Mr Ranguma says the slum in the backyard, the Kachok dumpsite which is 500 metres from the town, and a planned reorganisation are to blame for the delay.

West End Shopping Mall is one of the latest additions to Kisumu’s architectural rebirth and is strategically situated at the centre of the town.  The mall houses Java House Kisumu, Uchumi Supermarket, and Woolworths, TAC, among others.

Besides the shops at the mall, it also houses the luxury Acacia Hotel which features an alluring roof-top swimming pool and viewing deck.

Tuff Foam Mall, also a new entrant, is a project of Tuff Foam Mattresses that is nearing completion.

With its  modern architecture, the mall will house supermarkets, boutiques, service industries and a food court at the top floor.

Another such structure is the University of Nairobi building (formerly British Council building), located along Oginga Odinga Street. Currently, the university is constructing a 22-storey building that seeks to make it the highest structure in the lakeside city.

United Mall has been, until now, the main shopping mall in the lakeside town. Built along Kenyatta Avenue, the mall houses Tuskys supermarket, several shops, two banks and restaurants. Its location out of the central business district has also earned it the reputation of an ideal place for shopping and relaxing.

The Lake Basin Mall, a Sh2.5 billion undertaking by the  Lake Basin Development Authority, is expected to be the biggest shopping mall in the region.

Imperial Express Hotel is also a masterpiece whose design bears architectural similarities with the Imperial Hotel. Both hotels are owned by Mayfair Holdings Limited.