The Wealthy Elite of Trans Nzoia County
Trans Nzoia County, located in Kenya's North Rift region, is a hub for successful entrepreneurs and influential political figures. This area has produced numerous individuals who have built substantial wealth through diverse business ventures. Among them are prominent personalities such as Kiprono Kittony, the chairman of the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE), who is the son of Zipporah Kittony, a former KANU strongwoman.
Another notable figure is Ibrahim Abwere, who has risen from humble beginnings to become a significant property owner. He started his career as a casual worker and eventually built an empire that spans multiple towns in the region.
Key Figures in Trans Nzoia’s Business Landscape
1. The Khetia Family
The Khetia family is widely regarded as one of the wealthiest in the region. Their business empire includes a chain of supermarkets under the Khetia's brand. The journey of Khetia's Supermarket began in 1982 with a modest store in Kitale's Laini Moja. Initially, they used a pickup truck to hawk household goods to residents. In 1994, under the leadership of Ashok Khetia, the company expanded by opening its first branch in Bungoma. Today, the company operates over 22 outlets nationwide, making it one of the largest retail chains in Kenya.
2. Ibrahim Abwere
Ibrahim Abwere's story is a classic example of rags-to-riches. Starting as a sweeper and mason, he eventually bought properties from an Indian businessman who was relocating from Kenya. His big break came in the 1970s when he secured a tender to supply beds to Kaimosi Hospital. This opportunity allowed him to accumulate capital and invest in prime land across western Kenya. He currently owns commercial properties in Kisumu, Kakamega, Chavakali, and Kitale.
3. The Kittony Family
The Kittony family has interests in media, hospitality, and agriculture. Zipporah Kittony, a former KANU leader, has a son, Kiprono Kittony, who serves as the chairman of the NSE. Kiprono is also involved in media, being a shareholder in the Radio Africa Group, which owns Kiss FM, Classic 105, Star Newspaper, and Radio Jambo. The family also owns several luxury resorts, including Cranes Haven Resort and Sirwo Resort, and manages large-scale farms where they raise cattle, bees, and cultivate tea and coffee.
4. Moses Kiptanui
Moses Kiptanui, a retired athlete and native of Cherangany constituency, is known for his dairy farming expertise. He owns about 100 acres of farmland and breeds over 100 cows, with even the smallest cows producing 15 liters of milk. Kiptanui also ventured into real estate, owning the Komora Centre building in Eldoret. Additionally, he runs a chain of supermarkets under the Tulin brand in Eldoret, Kachibora, and Cherangany.
5. Allan Chesang
Allan Chesang, a senator from Trans Nzoia, is another prominent figure in the region's business community. He earned his first million playing table tennis for Kenya in Congo Brazzaville and later signed a contract with a French team, earning a six-figure salary. Chesang owns a chain of clubs under the Club Blend brand in Nairobi, Thika, and Meru. He is also associated with the Garage Club in Thika and the Craft Lounge in Westlands. Additionally, he runs Uplift Express, a clearing and forwarding company.
Other Notable Figures in the Region
In addition to these individuals, there are other wealthy businessmen and politicians in the county. For instance, Mike Sonko, the former governor of Nairobi, disclosed details about his net worth and properties. Similarly, Johnstone Muthama, a former Machakos senator, has invested in various sectors of the economy. These individuals exemplify the entrepreneurial spirit and economic dynamism of Trans Nzoia County.