Top 20 Outstanding Construction Companies in Kenya: Building the Nation’s Future
Kenya’s future is being built brick by brick; from expressways that cut travel time in half to skyscrapers reshaping the skyline. Behind these transformations are 20 construction giants in the Kenyan construction industry, building the backbone of a modern, thriving nation.
Building the Foundations of Kenya’s Tomorrow
The construction boom sweeping across Kenya reflects more than just rapid urbanisation; it’s a story of ambition, resilience, and innovation. With infrastructure forming the backbone of Vision 2030, construction companies in Kenya are engineering everything from highways and bridges to modern housing estates and energy projects.
These top construction companies in Kenya are transforming the nation’s way of living, working, and moving by blending technology, local expertise, and global partnerships. This definitive list showcases the 20 top construction firms in Kenya, highlighting their notable contributions, landmark projects, and vision for the future.
1. China Wu Yi Co., Ltd: The Infrastructure Powerhouse
Founded in 1982, China Wu Yi Co., Ltd. is one of the most prominent foreign construction companies in Kenya. The company’s regional headquarters are in Nairobi. A subsidiary of China State Construction Engineering Corporation and an arm of Fujian Construction Engineering Group Company, it operates in road construction, bridge building, housing, and industrial projects.
Key Projects: Nairobi Southern Bypass, Central Bank Pension Towers, Nairobi–Mombasa Highway upgrades, Gitaru Interchange, Nairobi–Thika Road, University of Nairobi Towers, Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital, and Mombasa Industrial Park.
Impact: The company employs over 5,000 workers locally, transferring skills to Kenyan engineers and technicians.
Challenges: Balancing the public perception of foreign dominance with maintaining quality and efficiency.
Future Ambitions: Expansion of prefabrication technology and local joint ventures to support affordable housing initiatives.
2. Seyani Brothers & Company (Kenya) Ltd: Commercial Excellence Defined
Seyani Brothers & Company Ltd was established in 1978 by the Seyani family. This homegrown contractor has become a symbol of craftsmanship and reliability.
Headquarters: Industrial Area, Nairobi
Key Projects: Village Market, The Oval, Two Rivers Mall, Delta Towers, Trademark Hotel, Westgate Mall reconstruction, and Kempinski Hotel.
Workforce: Over 3,000 employees, including a strong in-house design and civil engineering team.
Impact: Their finishing quality has made them a preferred choice for luxury and commercial projects.
Future Focus: Green-certified buildings and regional expansion into Uganda and Tanzania.
3. H. Young & Company (East Africa) Ltd: Engineering Kenya’s Industrial Backbone
Founded in the 1950s, H. Young & Company has established a reputation as one of the leading contractors in Kenya, specialising in engineering and industrial projects.
Key Projects: Sondu Miriu Hydro Power Project, Design and Construction of Kipevu Road in Mombasa, and New Embassy Building.
Ownership: Privately held by the Schwartzman family, with Joseph and Hannah Schwartzman listed as directors, with a diverse team of Kenyan and expatriate engineers.
Impact: Pioneering Kenya’s industrial growth through road and energy infrastructure.
Future Focus: Investment in renewable energy plants and advanced EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) technology.
4. Epco Builders Ltd: Kenya’s Local Pride
Founded in 1978 by Eng. John W. Kiarie, Epco Builders, is a fully Kenyan-owned firm with a strong track record of delivering complex public and private projects.
Headquarters: Off Mombasa Road, Nairobi
Key Projects: Kibera Highrise and NSSF Housing Projects, Kwale International Sugar Factory, Mabati Rolling Mills, Moi University Pension Scheme Tower CIC Plaza, and Kenya National Assembly renovations.
Workforce: 1,200+ professionals and artisans.
Impact: A symbol of Kenyan excellence and reliability in project delivery.
Future Focus: Implementation of Building Information Modelling (BIM) and sustainable design practices.
5. Cementers Ltd: Pioneers in Precision Construction
Founded by the P. Shah family in 1974, Cementers Ltd is known for high-end architectural and structural projects.
Headquarters: Westlands, Nairobi
Key Projects: Mama Ngina Waterfront Park, Westgate Shopping Mall, Ukunda Airstrip, Bugoloi Wastewater Treatment Plant, Mihrab Towers.
Impact: Promotes local employment and uses sustainable construction materials.
Future Focus: Investment in eco-friendly materials and digital project management systems.
6. Laxmanbhai Construction Ltd: A Legacy of Trust
A third-generation family company founded in 1953, Laxmanbhai has maintained its reputation for integrity and precision.
Key Projects: Rahimtulla Tower, Aga Khan Hospital expansion, and Nairobi Serena Hotel renovations.
Workforce: Around 2,500 employees.
Impact: A pillar in healthcare and commercial infrastructure.
Future Focus: Integration of energy-efficient materials and innovative construction systems.
7. Landmark Holdings Ltd: Public Works Excellence
Established in 1999, Landmark Holdings specialises in civil, building, and public infrastructure projects.
Key Projects: African Guarantee Fund (AGF) Headquarters, Awali Estate in Vipingo, Turkana County Headquarters Buildings, Ministry of Energy Headquarters, Situ Village, The Riverrine, Konza Technopolis, and Landmark Plaza.
Impact: Played a significant role in healthcare and transport infrastructure.
Awards: Contractor of the Year (NCA Awards).
Future Focus: Expansion into Rwanda and Ethiopia.
8. Associated Construction Co. (K) Ltd: Masters of Complex Builds
Founded in 1975, Associated Construction Co. Ltd has completed some of Kenya’s most technically demanding projects.
Key Projects: University of Nairobi Towers, JKIA Terminals.
Impact: Skilled in complex designs requiring advanced project management.
Future Focus: Integration of AI-driven design and predictive project analytics.
9. China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC): The Game Changer
A subsidiary of China Communications Construction Company, China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) has redefined Kenya’s transport infrastructure.
Key Projects: Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), Nairobi Expressway, Nairobi Viaduct, Mombasa Port expansion, Likoni Floating Footbridge, Galana Dam, Talanta Stadium, and Nairobi Municipal Water Supply and Drainage Project.
Impact: Enhanced regional logistics and connectivity.
Challenges: Balancing national interests with the dynamics of foreign investment.
Future Focus: Skills transfer and local partnerships to empower Kenyan engineers.
10. Parbatsiyani Construction Ltd: Consistency and Reliability
Founded in 1991, Parbatsiyani Construction is recognised for its discipline, strong safety culture, and high-quality project quality.
Headquarters: Industrial Area, Nairobi
Key Projects: Westlands Hotel, Tatu City installation, City, and Lodge Hotel
Impact: Delivering on both private and public contracts with a strong quality assurance system.
Future Focus: Adoption of digital collaboration tools and lean construction practices.
11. Gitutho Architects & Planners: Design-Driven Construction
Founded by architect Michael Gitutho in 1976, Gitutho Architects & Planners integrates architectural design with project delivery.
Key Projects: Kenyatta University Library, Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) pension housing scheme in Mombasa, Murang’a County Government building, University of Embu Administration Block, and the Kenyatta University School of Law.
Impact: Drives innovation through sustainable and functional design.
Future Focus: Smart urban planning and digital twin modelling for smart city projects.
12. China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC): Mega Infrastructure Specialists
China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), established in Kenya in 1981, is a subsidiary of China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC), founded in 1979 as a foreign aid department of the Ministry of Railways in China.
Key Projects: Mombasa Southern Bypass, Mombasa Highway Package 1 Project, Homa Bay County road project (66 km), Kwale rural highway (70km), and Lamu Port (LAPSSET Corridor) at Lamu-Ijara-Garissa (A10) Road section
Impact: Strengthened regional connectivity and port infrastructure.
Future Focus: Intermodal logistics and environmentally conscious rail systems.
13. Put Sarajevo General Engineering Co. Ltd: Specialists in Roads and Bridges
This firm, originally from Bosnia, has established itself as a reliable partner in Kenya’s county road development. Although the company was declared insolvent in January 2025 and subsequently liquidated, it undertook several major projects while it was still fully operational.
Key Projects: Homa Bay-Mbita road, President Daniel Moi-era projects, and Kenha and KeRRA road projects.
Impact: Enhancing access to rural and peri-urban areas.
Future Focus: Cold-mix asphalt technology for greener road solutions.
14. Intex Construction Ltd: A Leader in Road and Civil Engineering
Founded in 1982, Intex Construction is among Kenya’s most experienced local contractors.
Key Projects: Kapenguria–Sikendu Road. Kasarani Stadium infrastructure, Mombasa Port expansion, Export Processing Zone (EPZ) Sewerage Works, Kibera high-rise flats, and Galana Bridge.
Impact: Improved regional trade routes and accessibility.
Future Focus: Digitised project monitoring and infrastructure maintenance programs.
15. Chinese Overseas Engineering Group (COVEC): Delivering with Precision
The Chinese Overseas Engineering Group (COVEC), a Chinese state-owned enterprise and a subsidiary of China Railway Group Limited, has constructed key energy and housing facilities in Kenya.
Key Projects: Mombasa-Nairobi Standard Gauge Railway, Nairobi Expressway, Kisumu Anderson Housing Project, Sigiri Bridge, Muthatari-Siakago-Ugweri road, Nyamasaria Interchange, and C192 roads.
Impact: Strengthened Kenya’s power and housing sectors.
Future Focus: Renewable energy infrastructure and digital construction integration.
16. Civicon Ltd: Infrastructure and Energy Development Specialists
Part of TransCentury Group, Civicon Ltd focuses on engineering, oil and gas, and energy projects.
Key Projects: Geothermal infrastructure, including a 2.3 MW and a 120 MW geothermal station in Naivasha; oil and gas exploration in Kenya; road infrastructure for the Lake Turkana Wind Power Project and the Limuru Wind Farm; and industrial plants, such as those operated by Coca-Cola.
Workforce: 2,000+ employees across East Africa.
Impact: Supporting Kenya’s industrial and energy diversification.
Future Focus: Regional expansion and logistics support for energy projects.
17. Interways Works Ltd: Building Kenya’s Transport Future
A growing, fully Kenyan-owned firm, Interways Works, specialises in road construction, bridge building, and building development.
Key Projects: Thika Superhighway Maintenance, Thika Road Footbridges (Mang’u and Witeithie), Sewerline extension (Lumumba Drive), Upperhill-Mbagathi Link Roads, Suswa Access Roads, and Juja Weighbridge.
Impact: Promotes inclusive growth through county-level development.
Future Focus: Use of smart sensors and data-driven road maintenance systems.
18. Southern Engineering Company (SECO): The Coastal Engineering Pioneer
Founded in 1959 and based in Mombasa, Southern Engineering Company (SECO) specialises in marine and offshore engineering.
Key Projects: Dongo Kundu SEZ (Special Economic Zone) infrastructure, SECO Jetty and Sanmarco Jetty, Mombasa Port Area Road Development (MPARD), Kisumu Oil Jetty, Rehabilitation of KPA spillway, and Tank conversion at GAPCO terminal.
Impact: Enhancing Kenya’s blue economy and port efficiency.
Future Focus: Expansion into Tanzania and Somalia’s coastal infrastructure markets.
19. MaceYMR (Kenya) Ltd: Global Expertise, Local Delivery
As part of the UK-based Mace Group, MaceYMR Ltd provides world-class project management and construction services in Kenya.
Key Projects: The Hub Karen, Garden City Mall, Two Rivers Mall, Tatu City, The CUBE, Global Trade Centre (GTC), Sheraton Four Points Hotel, and Sanlam Towers.
Impact: Elevating project management standards in the Kenyan construction industry.
Future Focus: AI-driven project delivery, sustainability certifications, and smart building systems.
20. Kirinyaga Construction Company Ltd: Regional Dominance
Founded in the early 1990s in Nairobi by Eng. Ephrahim Maina, a former Mathira Constituency MP and Senator for Nyeri County. Kirinyaga Construction Company Ltd has evolved from a small regional contractor into a leading construction company in East and Central Africa.
Key Projects: Sagana Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Kagio Modern Market, Kiumbu and Wamumu Markets, Sagana Affordable Housing Project, Kirinyaga County water projects, and numerous road construction and maintenance projects, including the Kagume–Kianjagi road to improve rural access and the Sagana-Kianjiru road for periodic maintenance.
Impact: Kirinyaga Construction has established itself as a dependable partner in both public and private infrastructure development, aligning closely with Kenya’s Vision 2030 goals.
Future Focus: Kirinyaga Construction is positioning itself for the future through digital transformation and strategic partnerships.
What Defines Kenya’s Top Construction Companies
The most successful construction companies in Kenya have more in common than large projects and impressive portfolios. They form the foundation of Kenya’s fast-growing infrastructure network, driving progress through innovation, resilience, and skilled execution. From expressways and high-rises to renewable energy and housing, these leading contractors in Kenya showcase the strength of a dynamic and evolving Kenyan construction industry.
1. Technical Expertise and Capacity
Top construction companies in Kenya excel through multidisciplinary engineering excellence. They handle complex civil, structural, and mechanical works while integrating modern project management collaboration software. Firms like China Wu Yi, Seyani Brothers, and H. Young & Co. blend international experience with local insight, traits that define the best construction firms in Kenya.
2. Scale and Skilled Workforce
The top construction companies in Kenya stand out for their capacity to mobilise vast human and mechanical resources. With thousands of employees, advanced equipment, and strong logistics, firms such as Epco Builders and Laxmanbhai Construction exemplify the operational strength that fuels major construction companies building Kenya’s future.
3. Public and Private Sector Versatility
The Kenyan construction industry thrives on a balance of government-led infrastructure and private sector development. The best construction firms in Kenya manage public roads, hospitals, and housing projects while delivering commercial and residential buildings for private clients. This dual focus ensures adaptability and sustained growth.
Further reading: How to Start a Construction Company in Kenya: A Complete Guide
4. Innovation and Sustainability
A growing hallmark among civil engineering companies in Kenya is sustainability. Contractors are now adopting eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and smart technologies. Laxmanbhai Construction and China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), for example, have incorporated green building practices into large-scale developments, showing how top construction companies shaping Kenya’s infrastructure are redefining responsible growth.
5. Talent Development and Empowerment
Behind every successful project are skilled hands and sharp minds. Many construction companies in Kenya invest in training, internships, and university partnerships to nurture the next generation of engineers and technicians. By empowering local talent, leading contractors in Kenya ensure a continuous pipeline of professionals ready to take on future megaprojects.
Key Challenges Facing the Industry
Despite remarkable progress, the Kenyan construction industry faces hurdles that demand strategic solutions.
1. Financing Constraints
Delayed payments and tight credit cycles continue to be a major challenge for construction companies in Kenya. Irregular funding often disrupts project timelines, especially for smaller contractors. Streamlined payment systems could significantly boost sector stability.
Further reading: Discover 10 Project Management Challenges Facing African Infrastructural Projects
2. Material Cost Fluctuations
Price volatility for cement, steel, and fuel affects nearly every local contractor. Therefore, construction companies in Kenya are turning to local sourcing, value engineering, and innovative procurement strategies to stay competitive amid global market shifts.
3. Skilled Labour Shortage
The demand for technical expertise consistently exceeds the supply. The best construction firms in Kenya are addressing this issue through apprenticeship programs and targeted training, which are vital for sustaining quality as infrastructure projects expand nationwide.
4. Regulatory Complexity
Multi-agency approvals and lengthy licensing procedures often slow progress for leading contractors in Kenya. Digitalisation and inter-agency coordination are key to reducing red tape and improving the ease of doing business.
Further reading: NCA Contractor Registration Requirements: A Complete Guide for Contractors in Kenya
5. Sustainability Pressure
With global emphasis on green building technology, major construction companies building Kenya’s future must now meet international sustainability benchmarks. While compliance increases costs, it also opens opportunities for innovation and long-term competitiveness within the top construction companies in the Kenyan landscape. Some projects require ISO certification for construction companies, enhancing competitiveness.
Conclusion: Building Kenya’s Future Together
Many other construction companies in Kenya are doing well, but we focused on those handling major projects in the country. Therefore, the Kenyan infrastructure revolution is far from over. The leading construction companies in Kenya continue to deliver projects that enhance the quality of life and fuel economic growth. Each new building, bridge, or road reflects a collaboration between visionary leaders, skilled engineers, and a nation eager to progress.
By overcoming financial, regulatory, and skill-based challenges, these companies will continue to transform Kenya’s built environment, cementing their role as the trusted construction companies for projects in Kenya and shaping the nation’s future. Lastly, as Kenya solidifies its position as an East African construction hub, the aforementioned construction companies, which shape Kenya’s infrastructure, remain pillars of transformation and progress.
Call to Action: Explore Kenya’s Top Builders
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