Ukambani, a region in southeastern Kenya, is home to several influential individuals who have made their mark in the business world.
These tycoons have amassed substantial wealth through their diversified investments in various sectors, contributing to the economic growth of the region.
In this article, we will explore the lives and investments of some of the richest tycoons in Ukambani.
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Peter Muthoka
Peter Muthoka, a prominent figure from Machakos, has established himself as a formidable force in the business world.
As the founder and Chief Executive of Acceler Global Logistics, one of Kenya’s leading transport and logistics firms, Muthoka has made substantial investments across various sectors.
Acceler Global Logistics is a renowned global logistics company with an impressive track record.
The firm specializes in offering a wide range of services, including freight logistics, road transport, warehousing, and clearing and forwarding.
Through a strategic partnership with Hellman Global Logistics, Acceler has solidified its position as a key player in the industry.
However, Muthoka’s influence extends beyond the logistics realm.
He has also made strategic investments in some of Kenya’s largest companies, showcasing his diverse business acumen.
Notably, Muthoka held the title of the largest individual shareholder in CMC Motors, a prominent automobile distribution firm.
In 2014, he made headlines when he sold his stake in the company to the esteemed Al-Futtaim Group of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for a staggering sum of nearly Sh. 2 billion.
John Harun Mwau
John Harun Mwau, a figure shrouded in mystery, hails from Kilungu in Kaitu, Makueni County, and is widely regarded as the wealthiest individual in Ukambani.
Despite his elusive persona, Mwau’s financial prowess has gained him significant attention.
In a Forbes article, it was reported that he held a 7.7% stake in Nakumatt, a prominent retail chain, which he allegedly sold in 2016 for a staggering sum of $10 million.
However, Mwau remained tight-lipped about these reports, neither confirming nor denying them.
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According to Olympics.com, Mwau’s vast wealth is believed to have been accumulated through his involvement as a director in several companies.
These companies include Vitu Ltd, Tom Brown Ltd, Kuston Kenya Ltd, JN Records Ltd, Pepe Enterprises Limited, Harun International Limited, Africa Center for Hope Initiative Everywhere, and Alleged Drug Trafficking.
In 2011, Mwau found himself at the center of controversy when the United States government accused him of being a narcotics kingpin in Kenya.
The Department of the Foreign Assets Office of the US Department of the Treasury labeled him as one of the most powerful and active narcotics traffickers in the region.
However, Mwau vehemently denied these allegations, claiming they were merely a ploy to undermine his businesses, which were allegedly worth over $750 million.
To date, these allegations have not been substantiated by either US or local authorities.
Johnstone Muthama
Johnstone Nduya Muthama, a prominent Kenyan businessman and politician, has made his mark in various industries.
While he recently served as the chairman of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) before his resignation, Muthama’s entrepreneurial ventures extend far beyond politics.
With investments in real estate, agriculture, and the tourism sectors, he has established himself as a successful and diversified businessman.
One of Muthama’s notable areas of expertise lies in the mining industry.
His mining investments have contributed significantly to his wealth, making him one of Kenya’s wealthiest individuals.
Through his company, Muthama Gemstone (K) Ltd, which was founded in July 1990, he deals in precious stones such as gold, rubies, and opal.
With mining assets in Tsavo and interests in Tanzania, Muthama has tapped into Asian markets, particularly Thailand, where there is a ready market for these valuable gemstones.
In addition to his mining endeavors, Muthama has also ventured into the real estate business. Under his company Rockstone Properties Ltd, he has made strategic investments in the lucrative real estate sector.
Moreover, he is the owner of Nduya Muthama Holdings, another prominent player in the real estate industry.
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Beyond mining and real estate, Muthama has diversified his portfolio with Nina Marie Ltd, a clothing venture specializing in the retail sale of clothing, footwear, and leather in specialized stores.
David Masika
David Masika, a native of Makueni County, has left an indelible mark on Kenya’s real estate industry.
As the driving force behind Lloyd Masika Limited, a company he co-founded in 1979 alongside his European colleague John Lloyd, Masika has established himself as a prominent figure in the realm of luxurious properties.
With over 40 years of operation, Lloyd Masika Limited has solidified its position as a mainstay in Kenya’s real estate landscape.
The company boasts an impressive portfolio that includes some of the most prestigious properties in the country.
Among the notable listings handled by Lloyd Masika are Telposta Towers, Crossroad Mall, Sarit Centre, The Mall, Corner House, Stanbank House, Parklands Plaza, Galana Plaza, Barclays Plaza, and many more.
Additionally, the management of Norfolk Towers in Nairobi falls under the purview of Lloyd Masika Real Estate Firm.
Not content with just property listings, Lloyd Masika Limited also offers rental services for various upscale apartments.
Some of the notable apartments under their management include Nanu Apartments off Chaka Road, Longonot Apartments, Norfolk Towers, Arboville Apartments, Nabro Apartments, Duncan Court, Opal Court off State House Road, and Stands Apartments on Dennis Pritt Road.
Masika’s illustrious career extends beyond the realm of real estate.
He has held influential positions on the boards of several parastatals, showcasing his leadership and business acumen.
His notable appointments include serving as the Managing Trustee of the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), the Managing Director of Tana & Athi Rivers Development Authority (TARDA), and the Chairman of esteemed institutions such as Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC), National Bank of Kenya (NBK), and the Kenya Meat Commission (KMC).
Furthermore, Masika serves as the Chairman of Cheshire Disability Services (Kenya) and holds board memberships in K-Rep Bank, Nairobi Hospital, and Pioneer Holdings Limited.
Chris Musau
Chris Musau, a Machakos businessman and the owner of Maanzoni Lodge, has emerged as a prominent figure in the hospitality industry.
Although his entry into this sector was accidental, he has managed to establish a reputable name for himself through the success of Maanzoni Lodge, a resort he inaugurated in 2011.
Nestled on 28 acres of land, this remarkable establishment is situated off the Mombasa-Nairobi Highway.
Chris Musau made headlines recently with his acquisition of the iconic 680 Hotel, located in the heart of Nairobi’s city centre, for an estimated sum of Sh1.2 billion.
In the past, Musau demonstrated his astute business acumen by profiting from a land deal. Through a combination of local lenders, personal savings, and family resources, he acquired an impressive 10,000 acres of land.
Subsequently, he strategically sold off a significant portion of the land, including parcels to his late brother-in-law, Mr Kilonzo.
The genesis of Musau’s hotel brand can be traced back to his sale of Nova Supermarkets, a venture he had previously owned.
Following this transaction, he ventured into the hotel industry as a leisure pursuit.
However, his passion for the field quickly transformed into a flourishing enterprise.
In 2019, Musau unveiled ambitious plans to construct an 11-storey, 300-bed hotel that would incorporate luxurious residential facilities in Machakos town.
This announcement exemplified his vision and commitment to continually expanding and enhancing his hotel empire.
At present, Maanzoni Lodge boasts an impressive array of 360 rooms that are thoughtfully constructed in separate clusters. Amidst the harsh and windswept landscape, the lodge stands out as an oasis of tranquility. The meticulously maintained lush gardens, adorned with tropical and drought-resistant plants, create a captivating kaleidoscope of colors, captivating visitors and providing a serene environment.
Kalonzo Musyoka
Kalonzo Musyoka is a prominent figure in Kenyan politics, having served as the former vice president of the Republic of Kenya during President Mwai Kibaki’s administration.
With a political career spanning several decades, he has established himself as a seasoned politician and statesman.
Beyond his political endeavors, Kalonzo is also a shrewd businessman with a diverse portfolio of investments. One notable asset in his possession is a vast 300-acre land in Yatta, showcasing his interest in land ownership and agriculture.
In addition to his land holdings, Kalonzo has made significant investments in the real estate sector. His impressive portfolio includes a fleet of apartments in Nairobi.
Among his notable real estate assets is his Karen residence, estimated to be worth around Sh. 800 million.
Not one to shy away from luxury, Kalonzo is the proud owner of an Eurocopter helicopter worth Sh. 200 million.