Pension schemes gain new asset as GenAfrica partners with London Town Group

GenAfrica Asset Managers, through its Batian Property Fund, has formally taken over the management of The Cube - a prominent commercial property on Riverside Drive - from London Town Group’s Kenyan arm, Innova Properties, marking a major shift in how pension-backed real estate investments are being structured in the country.

The acquisition, which received the Competition Authority’s approval in October 2025, ushers in a new partnership between Batian and Innova aimed at curating premium, globally aligned assets for Kenyan pension schemes.

The collaboration is expected to strengthen the availability of high-quality, yield-backed real estate for institutional investors.

Batian Property Fund CEO Timothy Mulondo said the move advances the fund’s mission of creating value for pension contributors.

“Through this acquisition, we continue to strengthen the bridge between institutional capital and productive real estate. As we continue to scale, Batian remains focused on structured, transparent, and competitive-return investments, ensuring that every shilling entrusted to us works for the retirement security of Kenyan workers,” he said.

Innova Properties CEO Kavita Doshi described the partnership as a foundation for long-term growth rather than an exit.

She noted, “This transaction is not an exit; it is the beginning of a strategic collaboration. Kenya’s pension sector is evolving, and we believe the future lies in partnerships like this where innovation meets integrity.”

GenAfrica said the acquisition aligns with its broader strategy of diversifying investment opportunities available to pension clients.

Managing Director Patrick Kariuki said the firm is committed to reshaping how pension funds approach investment, noting the company’s expansion into alternative products.

“At GenAfrica, we’re deeply committed to redefining how pension funds invest, blending prudence with innovation. As we continue to expand our portfolio, from traditional investments to a new range of alternative investment products, our focus remains clear: empowering Pension Schemes with diversified, well-managed opportunities that deliver consistent value,” he said.

GenAfrica highlighted that products such as the Batian Property Fund, Milele Income Drawdown Fund, GenAfrica Money Market Fund, and the Kivuli Umbrella Fund all reflect its drive to support sustainable, long-term value for institutional clients.

The Batian Fund was established to help pension schemes access competitive real estate assets driven by strong local demand. GenAfrica said the fund continues to play a central role in shaping how institutional capital is deployed into the region’s property market.