lifestyle

Hezron Awiti:Billionaire Owner of Mamba Village in Mombasa, His Other Billion Properties

Located in Mombasa County, Mamba Village is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kenya’s coastal city. Acquired by Hezron Awiti Bollo in 1995 from a foreign owner, the farm is now one of the largest crocodile farms in Africa, housing over 10,000 reptiles. Spanning 17 acres of land, Mamba Village also offers event hosting and catering services, making it a multifaceted destination.

Owned by the affluent politician and former Nyali Member of Parliament, Hezron Awiti, Mamba Village is a thriving business built around the commercial value of crocodile meat and skins. With an estimated value exceeding KSh 250 million, the farm exports crocodile skins to international markets in countries such as Japan, Israel, and South Africa. Prestigious global brands like Hermès, Louis Vuitton, and Chanel use these skins to create luxury items, highlighting the high demand for this unique resource.

The farm slaughters between 1,000 and 1,800 crocodiles annually to meet the growing market demand. In addition to its crocodile farming operations, Mamba Village is home to a snake park, museum, fish farm, and aquarium, offering a rich and diverse experience for visitors. One of its standout attractions is its oldest crocodile, known as Big Daddy. Hezron Awiti’s interest in the crocodile business was sparked during his travels abroad, where he observed the use of crocodile skins in high-end products. This inspired him to commercialize the farm to tap into this lucrative market.

Visitors to Mamba Village can engage in a variety of activities, including getting an up-close look at crocodiles, learning about their natural habitats, and watching feeding sessions. The farm’s event hosting and catering services also make it an ideal location for private functions. Whether for leisure, education, or special events, Mamba Village stands out as a must-visit attraction for tourists exploring Mombasa.