Carlson Rezidor, one of the largest and most dynamic hotel groups worldwide, continues to strengthen its presence in Africa, the company’s most important growth market.

The group has announced the first Radisson Blu Residence in Nairobi, Kenya.

The property with 123 units will be located adjacent to the State House and welcome the first guests in late 2016.

It is Carlson Rezidor’s third project in Nairobi and at the same time the group’s fifth Radisson Blu residence in Africa – a growing segment that will be deployed further in capital cities across the continent.

Carlson Rezidor’s total portfolio in 27 countries in Africa now features 65 hotels (30 hotels with 6,700 rooms in operation and 35 hotels with 7,600 rooms under development).

The group steadily delivers its leading pipeline: in 2015, eight hotels were opened in Africa; three of them even on the same day.

Carlson Rezidor also made its entrance to the Indian Ocean with two resort openings in Mauritius.

Five further openings are expected till year-end – among them Radisson Blu flagships in Lomé, Togo, Maputo, Mozambique and Nairobi, Kenya as well as the first Park Inn by Radisson in Nigeria.

“Africa is a powerhouse, and we are committed to unlock the continent’s potential.

“Driven by economic growth, rapid urbanisation and favourable demographics, and facing an undersupply of quality hotel rooms, Africa offers huge opportunities for growth.

“It plays a key role in our long-term strategy targeting asset-light and sustainable growth in EMEA and particularly in emerging markets.

“We want to be a leading player in the travel and tourism sector across the continent – constantly driving value for our owners, guests and employees,” said Wolfgang M. Neumann, president, Rezidor.

Carlson Rezidor aims to establish its core brand Radisson Blu as the leading upper-upscale brand in Africa, present in capital cities and economic hubs.