Benson Wairegi, group managing director of Britam, described the Emporis Skyscrapers Award for Africa's tallest building as a testament to the company's innovation and long-term planning. The 31-floor Britam Tower, completed between 2013 and 2017, received global recognition for its sustainable design, including water recycling systems, energy-efficient LED lighting, and a natural light-filled atrium. The structure's prismatic form, narrowing at the top, has made it a Nairobi skyline landmark.
Wairegi traced the tower's origins to 1986, when he convinced Britam's board to relocate the company to Upper Hill. At the time, the area was transitioning from a residential neighborhood to a commercial hub. "The chairman thought I was mad," Wairegi recalled. "But Upper Hill was being rezoned, and I saw potential in its future development." The initial office building, constructed in stages due to financial constraints, eventually became the foundation for the tower.
The Sh7 billion project incorporated African design elements and achieved the International Finance Corporation's EDGE green building certification. "We aimed to set a precedent for sustainable construction in Kenya," Wairegi said. Despite 50% occupancy, the company prioritizes long-term tenants over immediate rentals. "We're waiting for the right clients who align with our vision," he added.
Wairegi's leadership has expanded Britam to seven African countries. The tower, he said, ensures the company's legacy endures. "It's about climbing the mountain with new talent," he reflected, referencing his current reading on leadership. The structure stands as both a corporate milestone and a symbol of Nairobi's evolving urban landscape.
