Kisii County is a vibrant hub of entrepreneurial spirit, known not just for its bananas and sugarcane but also for its thriving business environment. Visitors to Kisii Town often remark on the warm hospitality of the Abagusii people and the county’s unique blend of chaotic charm and investment opportunities. Despite not being a major tourist destination, Kisii boasts luxurious hotels, a bustling transport sector, and ambitious investors driving its economy. Below is a list of the top ten wealthiest individuals in Kisii County and the investments that have earned them their fortunes. Richest People in Kisii County in 2025
1. Haron Kamau – Karmel Park and Overseas Buses
Described by Business Daily as a serial entrepreneur, Haron Kamau stands out as one of Kisii’s wealthiest and most visionary investors. He owns Karmel Park, a world-class hotel that sits on a sprawling five-acre estate. The hotel’s unique features include a helipad and a swimming pool surrounded by intricately designed artificial caves, cliffs, and waterfalls—an aesthetic borrowed from China and Dubai.
Kamau’s investments extend beyond the hospitality sector. He was once a shareholder in Transline but later launched his own transport company, Overseas Buses, which operates sleek, white buses with blue stripes, serving Kisii and beyond.
2. Isabella Lumumba – Co-owner, Ufanisi Resort
Isabella Lumumba is a co-owner of Ufanisi Resort, which held the title of Kisii’s best hotel before the emergence of Karmel Park. Nestled near Kisii’s CBD, Ufanisi boasts lush gardens with towering trees, offering a serene environment for visitors. Its prime location and natural charm make it a favorite spot for business meetings and getaways.
Isabella is married to former Kisii County Secretary Patrick Lumumba, who shares ownership of Ufanisi. Together, they have built one of the county’s most iconic hospitality brands.
3. Evans Nyagaka Anyona – Founder, Ena Coach
Evans Nyagaka Anyona is a veteran in Kisii’s transport industry. After the collapse of Transline, he founded Ena Coach, a bus service celebrated for its comfort and style. Ena Coach has become synonymous with quality travel, providing passengers with a classy and reliable experience.
4. Simeon Nyachae – Former Minister
Though age has slowed him down, Simeon Nyachae remains one of Kisii’s most iconic leaders and business moguls. A former Chief Secretary and Cabinet Minister, Nyachae is the founder of Sansora Group, which has interests in banking, real estate, aviation, horticulture, and flour milling under the Swan and Kabansora Millers brands. His investments have left an indelible mark on Kisii’s economy.
5. Jiwa Shamji Ltd – Construction Giants
This family-owned business dominates the construction industry in Kisii County and the greater Western region. Jiwa Shamji Ltd has undertaken major road construction projects and is a key distributor of Isuzu trucks and buses. The company’s operations have created significant employment opportunities, cementing the Shamji family’s reputation as one of the wealthiest in Kisii.
6. Ouru Brothers – Ouru Superstores
The Ouru brothers are among the most prominent business families in Kisii, thanks to their chain of Ouru Superstores and significant investments in real estate. However, internal disagreements reportedly led to the brothers parting ways. One of the brothers, Mogambi Mogaka, relocated to the United States amid allegations of tax evasion. His former home in Kisii has since been converted into La Serena Hotel.
7. James Ongwae – Former Kisii Governor
James Ongwae, the former Governor of Kisii County, ranks among the wealthiest individuals in the region. His tenure as governor solidified his influence and wealth, enabling him to invest in various ventures within Kisii and beyond.
8. Joash Maangi – Ex-Deputy Governor
Joash Maangi, the former Deputy Governor of Kisii County, is another wealthy figure in the region. His Ksh 50 million mansion stands as a testament to his affluence, featuring a main house, guest house, conference room, gym, swimming pool, and even a helipad. Maangi also owns a home in the United States, where his family resides. During an interview with Citizen TV’s Lilian Muli, he revealed that he built his Kisii mansion before assuming office, underscoring his financial success. Richest People in Kisii County in 2025
9. Nyandoro Group – Agricultural Investments
The Nyandoro family, though not as publicized, plays a significant role in Kisii’s agricultural sector. They have invested heavily in commercial farming and supply chain management for sugarcane and bananas, the county’s staple cash crops. Their investments have boosted both local farming communities and regional food production.
10. Zablon Mokua – Real Estate Tycoon
Zablon Mokua has made his fortune through strategic investments in Kisii’s booming real estate sector. From residential developments to commercial properties, Mokua’s portfolio has grown exponentially, driven by the rising demand for housing and business premises in Kisii Town and its outskirts.
Conclusion
Kisii County continues to thrive, thanks to the entrepreneurial spirit of its people and the strategic investments of its wealthiest individuals. From luxury hotels and transport services to real estate and agriculture, these ten moguls have played a pivotal role in shaping the county’s economic landscape. Their ventures not only highlight Kisii’s potential as an investment hub but also inspire others to tap into the region’s opportunities.
Who do you think will join this list in the future? Only time will tell.
