Finance & Investment Real Estate

Inside CANTO: The Westlands High-Rise Promising 22–25 Percent Returns by 2028

Ashraf Hamam - CEO of VAAL Real Estate

VAAL Real Estate has officially unveiled CANTO, its eighth luxury residential development in Kenya, introducing a new class of compact performance apartments in the heart of Westlands. The launch marks another strategic investment by the developer as it scales across Kenya, Uganda, Ghana, Tanzania, and Türkiye.

CANTO is inspired by the idea of a stanza in poetry. Each unit is designed as a small but elegant part of a larger composition. The project focuses on efficiency, performance and long-term value for investors seeking reliable returns in Nairobi’s most active real estate corridor.

Situated steps away from Sarit Center, CANTO targets modern professionals, digital nomads and global travelers who value location, convenience and contemporary design. The 25-floor tower will feature studio and one-bedroom apartments that provide fast rental uptake, low entry points and strong income prospects. Construction is already underway and completion is set for April 2028.

According to VAAL CEO Ashraf Hamam, the development embodies the firm’s commitment to architectural quality, financial logic and lifestyle relevance. The company projects a return on investment of between 22 and 25 percent, driven by the project’s walk-to-work location, compact unit mix and strong demand from Nairobi’s corporate and hospitality market.

Head of Marketing Anne Kamau notes that every square meter at CANTO is engineered to deliver value. Investors will benefit from full management support as well as consistent year-round occupancy, supported by rising business travel, conferencing activities and global mobility into Nairobi.

Data from the tourism and travel sector shows that Kenya is positioned for continued growth. The industry is projected to contribute KSh 1.2 trillion in 2025 and support about 1.7 million jobs. International arrivals rose by about 14 to 15 percent in 2024, surpassing two million visitors. The East African Community is also projected to attract about 14.5 million tourists in 2025, indicating growing demand for accommodation and serviced apartments across the region.

CANTO will feature a heated infinity pool, rooftop gym, mini golf lounge, coffee bar, cinema room, co-working space and a BBQ terrace. The development combines skyline views with amenities that appeal to both residents and corporate travelers seeking premium but compact living spaces.

VAAL expects the project to attract investors looking for both lifestyle value and commercial performance, positioning CANTO as a strategic asset in Nairobi’s evolving real estate and tourism ecosystem.