Leading the way in sustainable construction: Profica’s pioneering green projects

For over fifteen years, construction solutions company Profica has championed sustainability and green building practices across the African continent. CEO Tim White says that construction project leaders have a responsibility to actively guide clients to incorporate more green practices in construction projects, demonstrating that sustainability and economic success can go hand in hand. 

“At Profica, we see ourselves as environmental stewards, firmly committed to influencing the way projects get delivered. We strive to influence our clients and project teams to consider and implement environmental and sustainability requirements in all the projects that we manage,” says White. “This is no longer an option, but a necessity. Our approach aligns with global sustainability goals and significantly enhances the value and operational efficiency of the buildings we create.”

Since inception, Profica’s founding mission has been to create sustainable environments for people at work, home, and play. “This ethos has guided us throughout our journey, shaping our perspective on the impact we have on the environment and our responsibility towards it,” says White. We believe that green building practices not only benefit the environment, but also contribute to economic growth and development.”

In South Africa, Profica was the first specialist Construction Project Management company to become a member of the Green Building Council, playing an active role in the development of Green Building rating tools and cementing the company’s role as leaders in sustainable construction. 

Profica Designers and Construction Managers have crafted innovative and sustainable workplaces across the African continent, while Project Managers have guided teams to deliver Green-rated projects in West, East, North and Southern Africa. These projects have used internationally recognized rating systems, including LEED, GREEN STAR and EDGE.

Profica project teams continue to set benchmarks with a number of green firsts and prestigious awards, recognising these projects where Profica has played a leading and influential role. From greenfields capital project to workplace solutions and fit-outs, this impressive portfolio includes:

• Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers Head Office, Lagos: The first office building in Nigeria to achieve a 4-Star Green Star Design rating, also awarded the SAPOA International Development Award in 2024.

• Mastercard East Africa Head Office, Nairobi: Kenya and East Africa’s first Green Star-rated office in East Africa, with a 4 Star Green Star Africa Interiors v1 certification.

• Garden City Retail Centre, Nairobi: East Africa’s pioneering integrated residential, retail, and office development, recognised as the best green building in sub-Saharan Africa with a 4-Star Green Star Rating and LEED pre-certification.

• Douala Grand Mall: A trailblazer in Cameroon, featuring sustainable and green elements with a preliminary EDGE certificate.

• Stella Precinct and 1 Mutual Place, Sandton, South Africa: Achieved a Five Star Green Star rating for both interiors and base build.

• Google Office, Johannesburg: Awarded both a Five Star Green Star rating and Gold LEED certification.

Workplace solutions with sustainability at the core

Profica specialist Workplace Solutions team ensures that workplace interiors enhance productivity and align with corporate culture, while striving to ensure they are sustainable and energy efficient. 

For example, the MasterCard East Africa office was custom-designed by Profica to align with Mastercard’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and reaching net-zero emissions by 2040. Located in The Promenade, an EDGE-rated building in Nairobi, Kenya, the custom-designed interior fit-out not only creates a healthy and productive work environment but also minimises operational costs and environmental impact.   Another project for Mastercard in Morocco was the first project to earn a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum certification in Casablanca.  

Profica’s commitment to sustainability extends to its own operations as well. The company has implemented sustainable practices within its offices, such as recycling programs and energy-efficient lighting. Through its innovative projects and leadership in sustainability, Profica remains at the forefront of eco-friendly and innovative construction, continuing to deliver excellence across the African continent.