Nairobi, Kenya 1st July 2025- Basco Paints, East Africa’s leading manufacturer of paints and construction solutions, has officially launched DuraCoat AquaTech Rainshield, Kenya’s first AI-formulated tintable waterproofing paint. The groundbreaking product was unveiled during a high-level media briefing held at the Sarova Stanley Hotel, Nairobi, under the theme: “AI, Innovation in Paint & Global Disruptions Impacting Kenya’s Manufacturing Sector.” The event brought together senior government officials, regulatory agencies, professional associations, industry leaders and members of the media to discuss how local manufacturers are leveraging technology and innovation to navigate changing global economic dynamics.

Government Commends Local Manufacturing Innovation.

The launch was officiated by Hon. Joel Arumoyang, Principal Secretary, State Department for Public Works, who emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships in advancing climate-resilient and sustainable infrastructure development. “This is more than a product launch; it is a strong statement of confidence in Kenya’s ability to lead through homegrown innovation,” said the PS. “Solutions such as DuraCoat AquaTech Rainshield directly support the Affordable Housing Programme under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). We commend Basco Paints for embracing AI and sustainability to deliver practical solutions for the market.”

A Smart Solution for East Africa’s Climate

Speaking during the launch, Mr. Kamlesh Shah, Managing Director of Basco Paints, said the new product reflects the company’s continued investment in smart manufacturing and climate-responsive technologies.

“DuraCoat AquaTech Rainshield is the result of AI-powered formulation and design developed specifically for East Africa’s diverse weather conditions,” said Mr. Shah.
“The product delivers advanced waterproofing protection, UV resistance, crack-bridging technology and is available in over 1,800 colours. Most importantly, it is proudly Made in Kenya.”

According to the company, Artificial Intelligence played a critical role in:

• Modelling local climate conditions and predicting product performance under extreme weather
• Accelerating research and development through virtual simulations
• Optimizing low-VOC, water-based formulations
• Forecasting colour trends using consumer insights and market data
• Reducing environmental impact and production waste
• Responding to Global Disruptions Through Local Innovation

The media briefing also explored the impact of global geopolitical shifts, supply chain disruptions and changing international trade policies on Africa’s manufacturing and construction sectors.

Industry stakeholders underscored the growing need for stronger local manufacturing capacity, technological advancement and regulatory collaboration to safeguard the sector against external shocks and rising costs.

New Premium Coatings Introduced

Basco Paints also unveiled two additional premium products under the DuraCoat portfolio:

• DuraCoat Ultima Play- a super-premium special effects coating designed for bold and high-impact interior spaces.
• DuraCoat Ultima Aquagloss Enamel- a 100% acrylic, water-based enamel offering superior gloss retention, durability and compliance with global VOC standards.

Commitment to Sustainability

Basco Paints reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable manufacturing and environmentally responsible solutions through alignment with the Safari Green Building Index (SGBI) and internationally recognized standards such as LEED.

The company also highlighted its longstanding collaboration with the University of Nairobi, UNEP and WHO in the successful elimination of lead in paint, a milestone achieved in 2013.

“Sustainability is not a trend for us; it is a responsibility,” Mr. Shah added.
“Our innovations must contribute to healthier communities, greener infrastructure and responsible consumption.”

Industry Leaders Advocate for Collaboration

The event featured remarks from key industry leaders, including:

• QS. Nicholus Mutua-Works Secretary, State Department for Public Works
• Arch. Silvester Muli - Chairman, Board of Registration of Architects & Quantity Surveyors (BORAQS)
• Arch. George Arabbu- President, Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK)
• QS. Mutinda Mutuku- President, Institute of Quantity Surveyors of Kenya (IQSK)

The speakers collectively emphasized the importance of collaboration between government, professional bodies and the private sector in strengthening standards, promoting innovation and building resilience within Kenya’s construction industry.

About Basco Paints

Founded in 1976, Basco Products (K) Ltd is one of East Africa’s most trusted manufacturers of paints, coatings and construction chemicals. Headquartered in Nairobi, the company operates manufacturing plants in Kenya and Uganda and serves markets across Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, DRC, South Sudan and the wider East African region.

Basco Paints is widely recognized for pioneering sustainable, high-performance coating solutions under the DuraCoat brand.

🌐 www.duracoat.com

Media Contact

Evyline Nkirote
PR Executive – Basco Paints

📞 +254 723 284 474 / +254 734 334 801
📧 evyline@bascopaints.com