Raila Odinga: The Businessman Who Established A Vast Commercial Empire
The late Raila Odinga is primarily recognized for his political contributions; however, he was also a savvy entrepreneur who developed a varied business empire that included sectors such as petroleum, manufacturing, agriculture, and real estate. The former Prime Minister, who passed away in India due to a suspected cardiac arrest, firmly believed in the importance of keeping business and politics separate — a strategy that enabled his enterprises to flourish even amidst the evolving political environment in Kenya. Be Energy Limited One of the most notable companies associated with the Odinga family is Be Energy Limited, a leading oil marketing firm with a presence across the nation. As per industry statistics, the Odinga family possesses a 35 percent share in the company through Pan African Petroleum Company Ltd, in collaboration with a significant investor from Saudi Arabia. Be Energy is ranked among the top oil marketers in Kenya — fifth overall in the financial year 2024/25 — competing against major players such as Vivo Energy (Shell) and TotalEnergies. The company also exports petroleum products to Uganda and Tanzania. East African Spectre Odinga’s involvement in the energy sector began in the 1970s when he established East African Spectre, a company that produces Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinders. This firm continues to be one of the few locally owned cylinder manufacturers in Kenya. Agriculture and Real Estate In addition to energy, Odinga had significant investments in agriculture, managing his Opoda Farm in Bondo, Siaya County, where he was engaged in maize cultivation and livestock farming. In the real estate sector, the Odinga family, through LV Marina, revealed plans earlier this year for a Sh120 billion mixed-use development in Kisumu, in collaboration with GulfCap Real Estate.
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