If there is one political leader who has been a prominent figure in Kenya’s scene for decades, it is Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka.
From serving as a Cabinet Minister to Member of Parliament, Speaker of the National Assembly, and Vice President, Kalonzo has indeed experienced leadership at various levels.
Over the years, alongside his political journey, he has amassed wealth that has allowed him to own several impressive properties, including the Yatta farm. Despite the controversies surrounding it, Kalonzo Musyoka’s Yatta farm remains one of his most valuable assets. Times Digital Kenya explores its history, the controversies, and how Kalonzo actually acquired it.
Background of the Land and Controversies Surrounding it
For years, accusations circulated that the former Vice President had illegally acquired a piece of land in Yatta. In early 2021, rival politicians speculated that Kalonzo had acquired the land irregularly, claiming it was meant for the National Youth Service (NYS).
On the other hand, the Wiper leader maintained that he had acquired the land lawfully. While speaking at a past event, he clarified the entire process that led to him fully owning it.
According to Kalonzo, he acquired the northern portion of the land, which touches the Thika Super Highway, from a lady named Janet Chirchir.
Janet was a widow from Kericho who had been allocated around 100 acres of the land. Kalonzo, by his own account, then turned his attention to the southern portion of the land, where he struck a deal with the owner, Major Lang’at from Nakuru.
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Inside the 200-Acre Land
Located in Yatta, Machakos County, the land serves as Kalonzo Musyoka’s rural residence as well as a center for agricultural activities.
As a residential area, the property serves as a family home for Kalonzo and also as a retreat for political reflection, hosting high-profile meetings with political heavyweights. Gideon Moi is among the leaders the Wiper boss has hosted at his Yatta farm.
Apart from being a family home, the property also supports crop production and livestock farming. Some of the dominant livestock reared there include bulls and cows, as well as poultry for chicken production.
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The farm also engages in crop production, growing various horticultural crops such as cabbages, tomatoes, and maize, among others.
