The French-Rwandan developer, which began operations in 2021, has focused on creating quality housing in prime locations including Rebero, Kibagabaga, and soon Kimihurura.
'50 owners or tenants are now living in the apartments and villas we completed during this initial journey,' noted David Benazeraf, Founding partner and Managing Director.
Imara Properties' first project, Isange Estate Rebero, completed in 2022, introduced 15 high-end villas in a community setting with common gardens and swimming pool.
This was followed by Isange Phase II in 2023, which added 12 apartments and 6 villas to the Rebero neighborhood. The company expanded to Kibagabaga with Isange Apartments, offering 11 premium units near the Convention Center, just handed over, while Ituze Village in Kanombe, introduced functional family homes in 2025.
Currently under construction is Isange Phase III Rebero, featuring 20 luxury villas that continue the company's commitment to community-focused living. The project, like its predecessors, has seen strong ongoing sales, with over 50% of units already sold.
This consistent market response reflects growing confidence among both local and international investors. 'When we launched Imara, we had one ambition: to build communities and raise the standards of residential construction in Kigali', said Founding partner Serge Kamuhinda.
A Focus on Quality and Urban Development
What sets Imara apart in Kigali's competitive real estate market is its emphasis on transparency and quality.
"We've maintained a simple principle from the beginning," explains David Benazeraf. "Every property we sell comes with clear, detailed, and accurate specifications. All room sizes are measured, displayed, and explained.'
This approach has resonated with buyers and tenants from 25 different countries across 4 continents, many of whom appreciate the company's reliable communication and on-time execution.
Client testimonials support this reputation. "The attention to detail and the property matched the initial descriptions, which isn't always the case in real estate," shared an owner at Isange Estate Rebero.
Another buyer at the Kibagabaga apartments noted on-time delivery and excellent finishes quality as key factors in their satisfaction. 'They are not selling Instagram 3D pictures. They build reality', said another one who purchased in two of Imara's projects.
Looking ahead
Like many developers, Imara Properties has navigated construction challenges and supply chain delays. However, 'projects have consistently sold out before completion' recalled Founding partner Aimé Bakata Nkunzi, a sign of sustained demand for well-managed housing in Kigali.
As Rwanda's capital continues to grow, Imara appears well-positioned for the future. With additional projects in the planning stages and a proven track record of delivery, the company demonstrates that steady, quality-focused development can succeed in Kigali's dynamic real estate market. Imara's projects have created about 200 stable jobs.
The company's strength stems from a dynamic international team and its diverse founding team, which brings together Rwandan and French expertise across multiple disciplines.
The co-founders include David Benazeraf, a French entrepreneur with extensive African and international market experience; Aimé Bakata Nkunzi, a prominent Rwandan architect; Serge Kamuhinda of Volkswagen Mobility Solutions Rwanda; Alain Ngirinshuti from Rwanda Social Security Board; along with locally based architect Yannick Miara, and Yonathan Arfi of Group Optimal Gestion.
"The market is becoming more discerning," noted David Benazeraf. "Buyers prioritize quality and transparency, which aligns with our vision. Moving forward, we aim to keep improving while staying responsive to the city's housing needs."
About Imara Properties
Founded in 2020, Imara Properties is a French-Rwandan developer specializing in residential real estate.
The company has completed four projects totaling over 50 units across Kigali, with a fifth project of 20 villas currently under construction in Rebero and a sixth one starting construction in Kimihurura this year.
Its leadership combines international expertise with deep local market knowledge. www.imara-properties.com
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