MaertinK.
Acorn Holdings Limited, a leader in Kenya’s student housing sector, has announced plans to invest KSh1.55 billion in the construction of two new hostels in Eldoret. These facilities, which will be part of Acorn’s well-known Qwetu and Qejani brands, are designed to address the growing demand for quality student accommodation in the region. The two hostels will provide a total of 1,024 rooms—514 under the premium Qwetu brand and 510 under the affordable Qejani brand—offering a combined bed capacity of 2,291. This major investment signifies Acorn’s ongoing commitment to bridging the gap in student housing across Kenya.
Meeting the Growing Demand for Student Accommodation
The decision to invest in Eldoret is driven by the town’s status as a major education hub, home to several universities and higher learning institutions, including Moi University and the University of Eldoret. The increasing student population in Eldoret has created a significant demand for reliable and affordable accommodation, a gap that Acorn is aiming to fill. With the upcoming hostels, the company is not only responding to the housing crisis but also contributing to the growth of the local economy by providing jobs during construction and operational phases.
Acorn Holdings has already established itself as a leader in the student housing market through its successful Qwetu and Qejani brands in Nairobi. By expanding to Eldoret, the company is taking its proven model to a new region, ensuring that students outside the capital can also benefit from safe, comfortable, and modern living spaces.
Qwetu: A Premium Brand for Student Living
Qwetu, Acorn’s flagship brand, is known for offering high-end student accommodation that prioritizes comfort, security, and convenience. These hostels typically feature amenities such as fully furnished rooms, high-speed internet, study areas, gyms, and social spaces, creating an environment that promotes both academic success and social engagement.
The upcoming Qwetu hostel in Eldoret will continue this tradition by offering 514 rooms that cater to students seeking a premium living experience. With a focus on safety, the hostels will include 24/7 security, CCTV surveillance, and secure access systems, providing peace of mind for both students and their families.
In addition to security, Qwetu hostels are designed to create a vibrant community atmosphere where students can thrive. Common areas encourage interaction among residents, fostering a sense of belonging and enhancing the overall student experience. By maintaining high standards in their facilities, Acorn ensures that Qwetu remains the go-to choice for students seeking quality accommodation.
Qejani: Affordable Student Housing Without Compromising Quality
While Qwetu targets students who can afford a premium experience, Qejani was launched to offer a more affordable yet still high-quality option for students. The brand is designed to cater to the needs of students who are looking for budget-friendly accommodation without compromising on safety, cleanliness, or convenience.
The upcoming Qejani hostel in Eldoret will feature 510 rooms, providing a reliable housing option for students who require affordability. Although Qejani hostels are less expensive than their Qwetu counterparts, they still offer essential amenities such as furnished rooms, common study areas, and secure living environments.
By offering both Qwetu and Qejani options in Eldoret, Acorn is positioning itself to serve a diverse student population, accommodating varying financial capabilities while maintaining the high standards that the company is known for.
A Strategic Expansion in Kenya’s Student Housing Market
This investment in Eldoret is part of Acorn’s broader strategy to expand its footprint across Kenya. The company has already made significant progress in Nairobi, where its Qwetu and Qejani hostels have become the preferred choice for students from major universities, including the University of Nairobi and Kenyatta University. Acorn’s expansion into Eldoret is a strategic move to tap into the growing student population in western Kenya.
Kenya’s higher education sector has seen rapid growth over the years, with increasing enrollment in universities and colleges. However, the availability of adequate student housing has not kept pace with this growth, leading to overcrowded and substandard living conditions for many students. Acorn’s entry into this market has been a game-changer, setting new standards for student accommodation by providing secure, clean, and well-maintained housing options.
The company’s expansion plans are driven by a combination of factors, including the high demand for student accommodation, the need for safe and affordable housing, and the opportunity to create long-term value for investors. Acorn has successfully raised funds through the Acorn Student Accommodation Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT), which has enabled it to finance the development of these hostels. This innovative funding model has made Acorn a pioneer in Kenya’s real estate sector, and the upcoming hostels in Eldoret are a testament to the company’s ability to execute large-scale projects efficiently.
Impact on the Local Economy and Job Creation
The construction of the two hostels in Eldoret is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy. The project will create jobs for local contractors, suppliers, and workers during the construction phase, providing much-needed employment opportunities in the region. Once the hostels are operational, they will also create long-term jobs for staff involved in the day-to-day management and maintenance of the facilities.
In addition to job creation, the influx of students into these hostels is likely to boost the local economy by increasing demand for goods and services in the surrounding area. Local businesses, such as shops, restaurants, and transport providers, are expected to benefit from the presence of a large student population living in these hostels.
Acorn’s investment in Eldoret also has the potential to improve the overall quality of life for students in the town. By providing safe and comfortable accommodation, the company is helping to alleviate some of the challenges that students face, allowing them to focus on their studies and achieve academic success.
Acorn’s Commitment to Sustainable Development
Acorn Holdings has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability in its projects. The company’s student hostels are designed with environmental sustainability in mind, incorporating energy-efficient systems, water-saving technologies, and waste management practices. By adopting sustainable building practices, Acorn is not only reducing the environmental impact of its developments but also lowering operating costs, which ultimately benefits the students who live in its hostels.
Acorn’s focus on sustainability extends beyond its buildings. The company is also committed to creating positive social impacts through its projects. By providing quality student housing, Acorn is contributing to the well-being of students and supporting the development of Kenya’s higher education sector. The company’s efforts to improve student accommodation align with the broader goal of enhancing the quality of education in Kenya and ensuring that students have access to the resources they need to succeed.
Conclusion: Acorn’s Vision for the Future
Acorn Holdings’ investment in the two new hostels in Eldoret represents a significant milestone in the company’s expansion strategy. With a total of 2,291 beds across the Qwetu and Qejani brands, these new facilities will help address the growing demand for quality student housing in the region. Acorn’s commitment to providing safe, comfortable, and affordable accommodation is evident in this project, which is poised to have a positive impact on both the students and the local community.
As Acorn continues to expand its footprint across Kenya, the company is setting new standards in the student housing sector and demonstrating the value of investing in education infrastructure. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and community impact, Acorn is well-positioned to play a leading role in shaping the future of student accommodation in Kenya.
