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Online search behaviour has changed significantly with the rise of AI. How can African brands adapt to this new marketing landscape?
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By our African Marketing Confederation News Team | 2025
Location in Westlands targets the city’s growing middle class who are seeking convenience and leisure in one location.
Nairobi has gained another upmarket shopping mall with the opening of the new Rhapta Promenade in the Westlands area of the city.
It offers a mix of retail, dining, entertainment and health services and, according to local media reports, has opened with an 85% occupancy rate. It will also be a centre for seasonal markets and community gatherings.
Photo: Rhapta Promenade
Anchor tenants include a Carrefour supermarket and the Aga Khan University Hospital. There is also a focus on Kenyan-based fashion, with The Star newspaper reporting that several Kenyan luxury fashion designers are setting up shop.
“Located along Rhapta Road, the mall targets Nairobi’s growing middle class seeking convenience and leisure in one location,” says radio station Capital FM. “It includes rooftop spaces, seasonal events, and design features such as open-air architecture, smart parking and sustainability-focused construction.”
Reflects the character of the surrounding neighbourhood
Imran Noorani, CEO of the Rhapta Promenade, notes that the location has been chosen to reflect the evolving character of the surrounding neighbourhood.
“We identified a growing, vibrant community, one with a distinct cultural identity and residents seeking elevated, convenient lifestyle experiences that lacked a dedicated hub,” Noorani says in an interview published by The Star.
The mall incorporates open-air walkways and green spaces in its design, along with features such as smart parking and cashier-less checkouts. Noorani also emphasised a sustainability angle.
“We prioritised the use of locally sourced materials and finishes that align with global green standards,” he told the newspaper.

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