Cold Solutions Kenya becomes Africa’s first LEED Gold-certified cold storage facility

sKENYA – Kenyan based logistics company, Cold Solutions Kenya, has received the prestigious LEED Gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council, becoming the first multipurpose temperature-controlled warehouse in Africa to achieve this status.

The certification highlights the company’s focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility, setting a new standard for cold storage technology in the region.

The recognition follows a thorough evaluation of the Nairobi facility, which examined energy efficiency, sustainable materials, and efforts to reduce environmental impact.

The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification is a globally recognized system that assesses buildings based on sustainability measures.

Achieving Gold level indicates Cold Solutions’ significant investment in energy-efficient operations and responsible resource use.

“This certification not only enhances our operational credibility but also reflects our ongoing commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and environmental stewardship,” said Azhar Rifai, Co-head of Cold Chain Strategy at ARCH Emerging Partners, the investment firm supporting Cold Solutions.

Cold Solutions is now part of a small group of companies worldwide recognized for meeting high standards in sustainable construction.

The company’s achievement aligns with Kenya’s broader goals of promoting eco-friendly business practices and reducing industrial carbon footprints.

Expanding cold storage capacity

This certification comes a year and a few months after the launch of Cold Solutions’ flagship storage facility in Tatu City, a milestone in its three-year investment strategy worth USD 70 million (Sh10.5 billion).

The 15,000-square-meter facility, built on six acres, is one of Kenya’s largest cold storage complexes. It supports a wide range of products, including fresh produce, pharmaceuticals, vaccines, meat, poultry, and frozen foods.

Cold Solutions Kenya’s chief executive, Grant Ochieng’, emphasized the facility’s role in addressing logistical challenges in food and medicine storage.

“We believe this facility will not only meet but exceed your expectations, providing you with a competitive edge in your industry. Your success is our success, and we are honored to be your trusted logistics partner,” said Ochieng’.

The warehouse is classified as a grade ‘A’ facility due to its advanced design, high-quality construction, and strategic features, including optimal hook height, dock levelers, and a large lay-down area. These factors ensure efficiency in handling perishable goods and other temperature-sensitive items.

Cold Solutions Kenya remains committed to expanding its footprint in the country. The company has outlined plans to establish another storage facility in Mombasa, following the announcement of its long-term investment strategy in June 2020.

By increasing cold storage capacity, Cold Solutions aims to reduce post-harvest losses in agriculture and strengthen supply chains in the hospitality, retail, and pharmaceutical sectors.

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