Western Kenya comprises Bungoma, Vihiga, Busia, and Kakamega counties, with a combined population of approximately 5,021,843, as indicated by the 2019 census.
The economic landscape of the region is diverse, with Kakamega being the most prosperous county, contributing 2.4% to the national GDP. In contrast, Vihiga, the least affluent county, contributes only 0.8%.
Media reports highlight the top affluent individuals in Western Kenya, shedding light on their business ventures:
- Julius Mwale:
Julius Mwale, born in Kakamega in 1976, is a discreet but influential figure. After relocating to the United States, he joined the Kenya Air Force and later established a Biometric technology company near the Empire State Building in New York, with a significant investment of $2 million (Sh200 million). His ventures expanded to collaborations with major financial institutions, and he is credited for the Sh200 billion (about $2 billion) Mwale Medical and Technology City in Butere. - Eugene Wamalwa:
Eugene Wamalwa, a prosperous businessman and politician, is among Western Kenya’s wealthiest. His fortune, estimated at Ksh 400 million, became public knowledge when he assumed the position of Cabinet Secretary. Despite questions about his motivation, Wamalwa emphasized his commitment to serving the Kenyan people and highlighted his diverse assets, including multiple homes, extensive property holdings, and a successful law practice. - Phillip A. Kisa Arunga:
Philip Arunga O. Kisa, the Managing Director of Urgent Cargo Handling LTD since 1985, has overseen the logistics firm’s growth across various locations in Kenya. The multi-award-winning company specializes in storage, brokerage, ocean and air freight, transportation, and operates a cargo terminal. Arunga, also an avid polo player, imports ponies for his hobby and advocates for the accessibility of polo, challenging the notion that it is exclusively for the wealthy. - Francis Atwoli:
Francis Atwoli, the Secretary-General of COTU, is known for displaying his affluence through a collection of high-end automobiles, including a Mercedes-Benz S300 and a Mercedes-Maybach 6 Cabriolet. His opulent mansion in Kumpa, Kajiado, features amenities such as a helipad, a restaurant for 300 people, a guesthouse, and parking space for 100 cars. Atwoli, a man of financial influence, derives income from COTU and various board memberships. - Ibrahim Ambwere:
Ibrahim Ambwere, a millionaire from Western Kenya, gained attention for promising to settle Ksh 48 million in back teachers’ salary to save the government from financial distress. He owns numerous residential and commercial properties, including Ambwere Furaha, Ambwere Plaza, Ambwere Complex, and Ambwere Towers, solidifying his position as a significant landlord. - Mudavadi Musalia:
Hon. Musalia Mudavadi, a former vice president and leader of the ANC party, is a prominent figure in Western Kenya’s economic landscape. Beyond his political career, Mudavadi owns a bank and an insurance firm, along with a commercial office building and residential units in Westlands. Trained in Land Economics, he established a property management firm in Westlands. - Wetangula Moses:
Moses Wetangula, speculated to have a fortune of Ksh 2.4 billion, balances entrepreneurship with his political endeavors. Owning multiple properties in Syokimau and along Ngong Road, Wetangula’s investments include a share in the law firm of Wetangula, Adan, Makokha & Company Advocates.
These individuals represent a diverse spectrum of wealth and influence in Western Kenya, contributing to the economic and social dynamics of the region.
