This archive report was first published on 19 December 2019.
Top Nairobi Estates: Homes of Kenya's Wealthiest ¶
Located in the heart of Nairobi, Kenya's capital city, are some of the most affluent neighborhoods in the country. These exclusive estates are home to the country's wealthiest individuals, featuring luxurious homes and estates that exude opulence and sophistication.
One such estate is Muthaiga, which has been a favorite among the wealthy since its establishment in 1912. The estate is home to the Muthaiga Golf Club and is known for its tranquil atmosphere, thanks to the nearby Karura Forest, one of the few gazette forests within the city. The estate is also home to retired President Mwai Kibaki and top ambassadorial homes, including that of the American envoy to Kenya.
According to a book titled 'Uncertain Safari: Kenyan Encounters and African Dreams,' the structures in Muthaiga are 'solid and imposing' with 'carefully tended grounds, with bright flowered flame trees.' The houses in the estate are often compared to English country estates and are seldom close to each other, giving residents a sense of seclusion and privacy.
Prices for homes in Muthaiga can range from Sh700 million, with house rents going for about Sh400,000 per month. The estate's luxurious atmosphere and prime location make it an attractive choice for Kenya's wealthy elite.
Another affluent neighborhood in Nairobi is Karen, which was once a coffee plantation owned by Danish author Karen Blixen-Finecke. The estate is known for its century-old trees and is home to Deputy President William Ruto and Nasa co-principals Raila Odinga and Kalonzo Musyoka. The estate's tranquil atmosphere is due to the nearby Ololua Forest, which purifies the air and makes Karen one of the exclusive estates in the city.
Other affluent neighborhoods in Nairobi include Runda, Kitisuru, and Lavington. Runda is known for its lush coffee plantations along Kiambu Road and is home to many of the city's diplomats. Kitisuru is a quiet neighborhood that is home to many of Kenya's political and corporate leaders, including the country's most expensive home, which was valued at over Sh600 million. Lavington, on the other hand, is a popular neighborhood that is home to many of the city's elite, including high-end mansions and schools such as Strathmore School and Saint Mary's.
