Open Access Initiative Practice Note on the IFC Edge Journey at ZIMA Homes - Case of Block C

The Open Access Initiative (OAI) aims to address information asymmetries in Africa’s affordable housing market by harnessing the collective experiences and learnings produced by investors and developers through their investments in affordable housing. This practice note expounds on the prerequisites and specific criteria essential for obtaining the EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) certification that Zima Homes underwent and met. The purpose of the concept note is to give an overview of the IFC EDGE tool and give a commentary on the design considerations made by Zima Homes project, particularly in Block C to attain their Preliminary EDGE certification  status. A follow-up Practice Note will be developed on the implementation of the design considerations made and the practicality of the consideration in the context of Affordable Housing in Kenya.