Trailblazing Women Leading the Industry
Ruth Mueni- General Manager Inuka Afrika Properties
Ruth Mueni, General Manager of Inuka Afrika Properties, is a visionary leader shaping the real estate industry. She spearheads the registry department, ensuring a seamless documentation process for clients. With expertise in property management and market analysis, she drives operations, fosters client trust, and leads transformative projects. A true trailblazer, her leadership and dedication continue to set new standards of excellence and professionalism in the sector.
Esther Kibandi- Sales and Marketing Manager Inuka Afrika Properties
Esther Kibandi, Sales and Marketing Manager at Inuka Afrika Properties, is a dynamic leader redefining real estate sales. With a strategic approach, she drives marketing initiatives, builds strong client relationships, and enhances brand visibility. Her expertise in sales, negotiation, and market trends ensures growth and client satisfaction. A trailblazer in the industry, Esther’s leadership and dedication continue to set new standards of excellence and professionalism in real estate.
Nancy Muthoni – Executive Producer and Host of The Property Show with Nancy
Nancy Muthoni, a household name in the industry, has used her platform, The Property Show with Nancy, to educate Kenyans about real estate investment. Her work has demystified property ownership, helping thousands navigate the often-complex process of buying and investing in property.
Robyn Emerson- co-founder and president of Women in Real Estate
Robyn Emerson, a passionate advocate for gender equality in real estate, is the co-founder and president of Women in Real Estate (WIRE) Kenya. Through WIRE, she has been instrumental in mentoring and empowering women to take up leadership positions in the industry. Her advocacy work focuses on bridging the gender gap in real estate through training, networking, and policy influence, ensuring that more women have a seat at the table in Kenya’s booming property market.
Emma Miloyo – Co- Founder and Director at Design Source and Kiota School
Emma Miloyo made history as the first female president of the Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK). Her tenure paved the way for more women in architecture and related professions, proving that women can lead and thrive in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Challenges and Gender Disparities in the Industry
Despite these successes, women remain significantly underrepresented in Kenya’s real estate and built environment sectors. Statistics reveal the extent of the gender gap:
- Architecture – Only 11.8% of registered architects are women.
- Construction Management – Women hold just 13.7% of professional roles.
- Quantity Surveying – Female representation stands at 17%.
- Urban Planning – Women account for 23.4% of registered planners.
- Contracting – Women make up 15.4% of registered professionals, with even lower numbers in building and mechanical works.
Beyond professional roles, land and property ownership is another area where women face significant hurdles. Only 1% of land titles in Kenya are solely owned by women, while 5-6% are held jointly with men. In real estate brokerage, less than 14% of brokers are women, highlighting the continued gender imbalance.
Empowering Women in Real Estate
The progress women have made in Kenya’s real estate sector has been supported by initiatives like Women in Real Estate (WIRE), an organisation dedicated to advancing women’s achievements in the industry. Through mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and industry research, WIRE is helping more women gain visibility and leadership positions in real estate.
As more women step into executive roles, develop innovative projects, and advocate for gender-inclusive policies, the future of real estate in Kenya looks promising. The industry is slowly but surely shifting, and these trailblazers are proving that women are not just participants but key players shaping the market.
This International Women’s Day, let’s celebrate the women who are redefining Kenya’s real estate landscape, inspiring future generations, and breaking the barriers that once held them back. The journey is far from over, but their impact is undeniable.
