Introduction
If you live in Nairobi, there is a good chance you have spent time at The Junction Mall or Thika Road Mall (TRM). Whether it is shopping, meeting friends, grabbing a meal, or watching a movie, these two malls have become part of everyday city life. But who actually owns them?
Both malls are owned and managed by Actis, a multinational investment firm with deep roots in Kenya’s real estate and retail sector.
Meet Actis, the Company Behind the Malls
Actis is a London based global investment firm that focuses on real estate, infrastructure, and energy projects across emerging markets. In Kenya, it has quietly become one of the most influential foreign investors, especially in commercial property.
In October 2024, global investor General Atlantic completed its acquisition of Actis. Even after the deal, Actis continues to operate under its own name and independently manages its investments, including The Junction Mall and TRM.
Thika Road Mall Overview
Opened in 2013, Thika Road Mall was the first large-scale shopping complex along the Thika Superhighway. It was developed to serve rapidly growing residential areas such as Roysambu, Kasarani, Zimmerman, Githurai, Kahawa, and Ruaraka.
TRM hosts more than 100 retail outlets, including international and regional brands such as Carrefour, LC Waikiki, Miniso, Java House, ArtCaffé, EasyGym, and several banking halls. The mall also features extensive parking, modern security systems, and a 10,000 square foot conference and events facility, making it suitable for corporate functions and exhibitions.
Reports indicate that prominent Kenyan businessman and Safaricom Chairman Adil Khawaja holds a notable local ownership stake in TRM alongside Actis.
The Junction Mall Overview
The Junction Mall is located where Ngong Road, Naivasha Road, and King’ara Road meet, one of the city’s busiest intersections. It is one of the oldest modern shopping malls in Kenya, with its first phase completed in 2005.
After expanding in 2013, The Junction grew into a full lifestyle destination. It now offers fashion stores, restaurants, cinemas, supermarkets, and family friendly spaces. Popular brands at the mall include Carrefour, KFC, Galitos, Samsung, and Pizza Inn, making it a favourite for shoppers from Kilimani, Lavington, and surrounding neighbourhoods.
Other Actis Developments in Nairobi
Beyond The Junction and TRM, Actis has developed and managed several other landmark projects in Nairobi
Garden City Mall- An integrated mixed-use development along Thika Road combining retail, residential apartments, and office spaces.
Nairobi Business Park- A premium commercial office development located along Ngong Road near Karen, hosting multinational and regional corporate tenants.
Mi Vida Homes and Actis Exit
Actis also ventured into Kenya’s residential market through Mi Vida Homes, a housing platform launched in 2018 in partnership with Indian conglomerate Shapoorji Pallonji. The platform focused on green, affordable, and mid-market housing developments such as KEZA Riruta, KEZA Laika, Amaiya Garden City, and Mi Vida Garden City.
In October 2025, Actis and Shapoorji Pallonji exited the business after the Mi Vida management team acquired full ownership, marking a significant milestone in the maturation of Kenya’s institutional real estate market.
Actis Global Profile
Founded in 2004 following a spin-out from the Commonwealth Development Corporation, Actis has raised over US$25 billion since inception. The firm invests across private equity, real estate, energy, and sustainable infrastructure.
Actis is a signatory to the UN-backed Principles for Responsible Investment and operates through offices across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Europe. Its global portfolio includes investments in energy, digital infrastructure, transport, manufacturing, and large-scale commercial real estate.
Ownership Structure Today
Following its acquisition by General Atlantic, Actis now forms part of a broader global investment platform managing approximately US$97 billion in assets. Despite this, Actis continues to operate independently, with its funds and projects managed under the Actis name and leadership team.