Kenya’s youth population is increasingly creating wealth through entrepreneurship, innovation, and strategic investments. This comprehensive guide examines the richest young Kenyans under 35 years old, their net worth, businesses, and the factors contributing to their financial success.
According to Kenya’s Constitution Article 260, a youth is defined as an individual aged between 18 and 34 years. This guide focuses exclusively on wealth creators within this age bracket who have built their fortunes through verifiable business ventures, entertainment, and investments.
Understanding Youth Wealth in Kenya
Kenya has emerged as a hotbed for young wealth creators in Africa. According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, youth entrepreneurship has grown significantly over the past decade, driven by technology adoption, improved access to capital, and supportive policies.
Youth Millionaires Statistics
According to the 2022 Knight Frank Wealth report, Kenya is home to over 900 youthful millionaires, way above the global average.
Twenty-seven percent of the dollar millionaires or 803 of them are self-made and aged under 40, indicating new opportunities for young people in a country where the lucky few have previously relied on inherited wealth to join the club of the super-rich.
Key Statistics:
- Over 900 youthful millionaires in Kenya
- 27% of dollar millionaires are self-made and under 40
- Number growing above global average
- Technology and digital sectors leading wealth creation
- Content creation emerging as significant income source
Sectors Driving Youth Wealth
Modern Kenyan youth are creating wealth across diverse sectors.
Primary Wealth Creation Sectors:
- Technology and fintech startups
- Digital content creation (YouTube, TikTok, Instagram)
- Real estate development and investment
- Entertainment and media production
- E-commerce and online retail
- Professional services and consultancy
- Fashion and lifestyle brands
- Agriculture and agribusiness innovation
Quick Comparison: Top 19 Richest Youth in Kenya
Here’s a comprehensive overview of Kenya’s wealthiest young individuals under 35 years old, including estimated net worth, ages, and primary business interests.
| Rank | Name | Age | Estimated Net Worth (KSh) | Primary Business/Source | Industry Sector |
| 1 | Anerlisa Muigai | 36* | 1 billion+ | Nero Water Company | Manufacturing/FMCG |
| 2 | Eugene Mbugua | 32 | 500-800 million | Film & TV Production | Entertainment |
| 3 | Eric Muthomi | 32 | 300-500 million | Stawi Foods & Fruits | Agribusiness |
| 4 | June Syowia | 27 | 200-400 million | Beiless Group | Tech/Advertising |
| 5 | Gloria Otieno | 34 | 200-350 million | Recours Four Kenya (R4Kenya) | HR Consultancy |
| 6 | Rajiv Mehta | 35* | 150-300 million | Tangerine Investments | Outdoor Advertising |
| 7 | Paul Kihiko | 33 | 120-250 million | Wing It Nairobi | Hospitality/F&B |
| 8 | Crazy Kennar | 26 | 80-150 million | Content Creation | Digital Entertainment |
| 9 | Flaqo (Erastus Otieno) | 27 | 70-130 million | Content Creation | Digital Entertainment |
| 10 | Thee Pluto | 28 | 60-120 million | Content Creation & Real Estate | Digital/Real Estate |
| 11 | Heshan Da Silva | 30* | 150-250 million | VenCap Kenya | Venture Capital |
| 12 | Eve Mungai | 24 | 50-100 million | YouTube Content | Digital Media |
| 13 | Mike Muthiga | 31* | 80-150 million | Fatboy Animations | Animation/Advertising |
| 14 | Cosmas Ochieng | 31* | 70-120 million | Ecofuels Kenya | Green Energy |
| 15 | Nadia Mukami | 28 | 50-100 million | Music | Entertainment |
| 16 | Joel Mwale | 25* | 80-130 million | SkyDrop Enterprises (sold) | Clean Water Tech |
| 17 | Evans Wadongo | 32* | 50-100 million | SDFA Kenya | Social Enterprise |
| 18 | Xtian Dela | 33 | 60-100 million | Entertainment & Events | Media/Events |
| 19 | KRG The Don | 34 | 100-500 million (disputed) | Music & Business | Entertainment/Business |
Table Notes:
- Ages marked with * are estimates based on available information
- Net worth figures are estimates based on visible assets, business revenues, and media reports
- Some individuals may have aged beyond 35 since last verification
- Rankings subject to change based on new investments and business performance
- KRG The Don’s figures heavily disputed with self-claimed higher amounts
This comparison reveals the diversity of wealth creation among Kenya’s youth, from traditional business to modern digital content creation.
Who Are the Richest Youths in Kenya Today?
The most affluent moneybags under the age of 35 (with the exception of Anerlisa Muigai) are as follows:
1. Anerlisa Muigai – KSh 1 Billion+ (Age 36)
Keroches heiress, Anerlisa Muigai, tops the list of best Kenyan entrepreneurs under 40 with an estimated net worth of over KSh 1 billion. The influencer beauty is the founder of Nero, a water brand company and is the daughter of Keroche founder Tabitha Karanja.
Business Empire
Born in 1988, She is the oldest daughter of Keroche Breweries CEO, Tabitha Karanja and Joseph Karanja. In 2011, she founded Nero, a water company where she serves as the Chief Executive Officer.
Business Interests:
- Nero Water Company Ltd (Executive Still Water & Life Still Water)
- Anerlisa Weight Loss Program
- Instagram influencer marketing
- Real estate investments
Revenue Streams
In August 2021, Hopper HQ Ranked Anerlisa at number 30 in Africa and 271 worldwide in the list of best-paid celebs on Instagram. According to Hopper, the beauty gets KSh 436,000 per paid post.
Income Sources:
- Nero Water Company sales and distribution
- Instagram influencer earnings (KSh 436,000 per sponsored post)
- Weight loss program subscriptions
- Inheritance from Keroche Breweries
- Real estate portfolio
Assets and Lifestyle
Anerlisa’s net worth is estimated to be over Kshs 1 billion as of 2022. She owns a fleet of luxurious cars including a Mercedes-Benz S class and a Range Rover.
Visible Assets:
- Mercedes-Benz S-Class
- Range Rover
- Luxury residence in Riverside Drive, Nairobi
- Designer fashion and accessories
Recognition
Awards and Honors:
- Female Entrepreneur of the Year nominee (2018)
- Young Entrepreneurs Award runners-up (2018)
- 40Under-40 Business Icons in Africa
- Forbes 30 Most Promising Young Entrepreneurs (2018)
Note: While Anerlisa technically exceeds the 34-year constitutional youth threshold (born 1988), she remains one of Kenya’s most successful young entrepreneurs and is included for context.
2. Eugene Mbugua – KSh 500-800 Million (Age 32)
Eugene Mbugua represents one of Kenya’s most successful young television and film producers, having created multiple hit shows and establishing a production powerhouse.
Media Production Success
Production Company:
- Founded production company in his 20s
- Created and produced multiple TV shows
- Works with major broadcasting networks
- Mentors young content creators
Notable Productions:
- Multiple drama series
- Reality TV shows
- Documentary projects
- Corporate video content
Revenue Generation
Income Sources:
- TV show production deals
- Corporate video contracts
- Content licensing fees
- Training and mentorship programs
- Equipment rental services
Industry Impact
Eugene’s success has inspired many young Kenyans to pursue careers in film and television production, demonstrating the viability of the entertainment industry as a wealth-building platform.
3. Eric Muthomi – KSh 300-500 Million (Age 32)
Eric Muthomi is the founder of Stawi Foods and Fruits. A graduate of the United States International University, Muthomi capitalized on the consumer demand for healthier cheaper foods.
His business success has seen the company bag numerous recognitions such as: the Enablis Chase Bank ILO Business Plan Competition (2011), Nature Challenge (2011) and Hamsini Awards (2013).
Stawi Foods & Fruits
Muthomi founded Stawi Foods to address the gap in affordable, healthy food options for Kenyan consumers.
Business Model:
- Produces nutritious, affordable food products
- Focuses on local sourcing
- Distribution across major retail chains
- Export to regional markets
Awards and Recognition
Achievements:
- Enablis Chase Bank ILO Business Plan Competition winner (2011)
- Nature Challenge winner (2011)
- Hamsini Awards recipient (2013)
- Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 recognition
Revenue Streams
Income Sources:
- Product sales through retail channels
- Institutional supply contracts
- Export revenues
- Production consulting
4. June Syowia – KSh 200-400 Million (Age 27)
June Syowia is the founder and CEO of Beiless Group. The company provides advertising and technology solutions for businesses in Kenya and the East Africa region.
In her LinkedIn profile, she describes herself as a technology enthusiast with a passion for coming up with innovations that will change and improve systems in the continent.
Beiless Group Operations
Business Services:
- Advertising solutions
- Technology consulting
- Digital transformation services
- System integration
- Regional expansion across East Africa
Youth Leadership
At just 27, June Syowia represents the new generation of tech-savvy entrepreneurs building scalable businesses that serve regional markets.
Revenue Model
Income Streams:
- Advertising service fees
- Technology consulting contracts
- System development projects
- Retainer agreements with clients
- Regional expansion revenue
5. Gloria Otieno – KSh 200-350 Million (Age 34)
In 2013, Gloria Michelle Otieno Muka, founded Recours Four Kenya Consultants Limited (R4Kenya), a fast-growing professional HR services firm located in Nairobi, Kenya. She started the firm with $2,000 of her savings, and within the last 4 years, she has grown the company into a $400,000 (annual revenues) business with 19 employees.
R4Kenya Success Story
Recours Four Kenya offers professional HR services in consultancy, recruitment, training, psychometric testing and staff outsourcing. The company’s clients include the World Bank group, Kenya National Examination Council, USAID, GlaxoSmithKline and Sportpesa.
Service Offerings:
- HR consultancy
- Recruitment services
- Training and development
- Psychometric testing
- Staff outsourcing
Impressive Client Portfolio
Major Clients:
- World Bank Group
- Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC)
- USAID
- GlaxoSmithKline
- SportPesa
Growth Trajectory
Starting with just $2,000 in 2013, Gloria grew R4Kenya to $400,000 in annual revenues within four years, employing 19 staff members.
6. Rajiv Mehta – KSh 150-300 Million (Age 35)
Rajiv Mehta is one of Kenya’s most outstanding young entrepreneurs. He is the founder of Tangerine Investments, an outdoor advertising firm that uses public transit vehicles, litterbins and street poles to market leading consumer goods in Kenya.
Tangerine, which was founded in 2008, has clients such as Kenya Airways, Pizza Inn, Subway and Coca Cola HP among others. The company has annual revenues exceeding $1 million.
Tangerine Investments
Business Model:
- Outdoor advertising on public transit vehicles
- Advertising on litterbins and street poles
- Strategic placement in high-traffic areas
- Long-term client relationships
Blue-Chip Clientele
Major Clients:
- Kenya Airways
- Pizza Inn
- Subway
- Coca-Cola
- Other multinational brands
Financial Performance
The private limited company deals with outdoor advertising across Kenya. In 2017, the company recorded revenue in excess of $1 million.
7. Paul Kihiko – KSh 120-250 Million (Age 33)
The 33-year-old is the founder of Wing it Nairobi, a fast-food restaurant in the capital. In a previous interview, Kihiko revealed he came with up with the idea while having lunch with friends. Kihiko said getting a premise to start the business was very challenging given he had no experience.
Wing It Nairobi Growth
Business Development:
- Started first branch in 2014 at Galleria Shopping Mall
- Second outlet at The Hub Shopping Mall
- Focused on quality wings and fast-food experience
- Built strong brand recognition
In 2017, two investors bought a minority stake in a $ 75,000 deal. By 2018, the branch was raking in 6-figure income in annual revenues. Kihiko has since opened another outlet at The Hub shopping Mall. The two outlets earn Kihiko more than KSh 1.6 million monthly.
Revenue Performance
Monthly Income:
- Two outlets generating KSh 1.6 million+ monthly
- Approximately KSh 19+ million annually
- Investor backing for expansion
- Plans for additional locations
8. Crazy Kennar – KSh 80-150 Million (Age 26)
Kennedy Odhiambo alias Crazy Kennar was born on December 23rd, 1998 (24 years). Born and raised in Kenya, Crazy Kennar is the third born in a family of four, having two older brothers and one younger brother.
Content Creation Success
Digital Presence:
- YouTube channel with millions of views
- Instagram comedy skits
- TikTok content
- Brand partnerships
- Over 2 million combined followers
Educational Background
Kennar aced the national KCSE exams and attained a spot at the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) for a bachelor’s degree in Actuarial Science. It was at JKUAT that Tales of Crazy Kennar was birthed.
Revenue Streams
Income Sources:
- YouTube monetization
- Brand endorsements
- Sponsored content
- Event hosting
- Merchandise sales
9. Flaqo (Erastus Otieno) – KSh 70-130 Million (Age 27)
Flaqo is a household name in Kenyan comedy, known for creating relatable content featuring recurring characters.
COVID-19 Boom
Kenyan content creator Flaqo made over Sh 20 million during the COVID-19 pandemic period.
Content Strategy:
- Character-based comedy skits
- Consistent upload schedule
- Relatable Kenyan scenarios
- Strong audience engagement
Revenue Generation
Income Sources:
- YouTube AdSense
- Brand partnerships
- Sponsored content
- Event appearances
- Merchandise
10. Thee Pluto – KSh 60-120 Million (Age 28)
Thee Pluto is living the dream of many Kenyans in his 20s. He is popularly known for his program known as “loyalty test,” which seeks to expose people who are cheating on their partners. The program targets young couples and University students.
Multiple Business Ventures
Through this, he has gained popularity, with many companies rushing to sign him in. Instabet betting company signed him as a brand ambassador. In addition, he is a businessman who has heavily invested in real estate.
He is the CEO of two companies, namely, Summer House Real Estate-a company that buys land, develops, and sells at a profit, and Planet Homes Kenya – a company that deals with Airbnbs in Nairobi.
Business Portfolio:
- Summer House Real Estate (land development)
- Planet Homes Kenya (Airbnb properties)
- Content creation and YouTube
- Brand ambassadorships
Lifestyle
Visible Assets:
- Residence in Kilimani
- Toyota Prado TX
- Multiple Airbnb properties
- Real estate portfolio
11-19: Additional Young Millionaires in Kenya
11. Heshan Da Silva – KSh 150-250 Million (Age 30)
Heshan Da Silva founded VenCap Kenya. VenCap has assisted many startups to source capital for their businesses in Kenya. Da Silva sold his first company for a whopping Ksh 122 million.
Business Success:
- Founded VenCap Kenya
- Sold first company for KSh 122 million
- Helps startups source capital
- Forbes Africa recognition
12. Eve Mungai – KSh 50-100 Million (Age 24)
In July 2021, the Eve Mungai revealed she takes home over Sh 1.5 million monthly after monetising their content. She runs a channel named Eve where she shares entertainment and human interest videos.
Content Creation:
- YouTube channel “Eve”
- Entertainment and human interest videos
- Monthly income exceeding KSh 1.5 million
- Strong social media presence
13. Mike Muthiga – KSh 80-150 Million (Age 31)
Mike Muthiga is the founder of Fatboy Animations. If you are familiar with Faiba adverts then you know what Muthiga’s genius can amount to. He is also behind Safaricom’s Juma (Mazgwembe) commercials.
Mike holds a degree in Civil Engineering but has done a marvelous job in animation; a feat he was able to accomplish when he was as young as 17 years of age. Tinga Tinga Tales on Citizen TV also forms part of his resume. The Faiba advert alone netted him a reportedly 3.5 million fortune.
Animation Success:
- Fatboy Animations founder
- Created Faiba advertisements
- Safaricom Juma commercials
- Tinga Tinga Tales animator
- KSh 3.5 million from single Faiba campaign
14. Cosmas Ochieng – KSh 70-120 Million (Age 31)
Cosmas Ochieng is largely credited for the success of Eco Fuels Kenya. This is a large enterprise producing organic fertilizers, bio-fuel and health products.
Ecofuels Kenya:
- Organic fertilizers production
- Bio-fuel manufacturing
- Health products
- Sustainable agriculture solutions
15. Nadia Mukami – KSh 50-100 Million (Age 28)
Singer Nadia Mukami became a millionaire in 2020 at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic at the age of 23.
Music Career:
- Hit songs and albums
- Brand endorsements
- YouTube monetization
- Live performances
- Music production
16. Joel Mwale – KSh 80-130 Million (Age 25)
Joel Mw is the founder of SkyDrop Enterprises. He made about Ksh 42.5 million when he was just aged 19 from the sale of his firm to an Israeli company.
Young Mwale through SkyDrop Enterprises has assisted many people in his home town Kitale gain access to clean, affordable drinking water.
Early Success:
- Sold SkyDrop Enterprises for KSh 42.5 million at age 19
- Clean water solutions
- Anzisha Prize for Youth Leadership (2011)
- Zeitgeist Young Minds Award (2012)
17. Evans Wadongo – KSh 50-100 Million (Age 32)
Evans Wadongo, 27-Director of Operations, SDFA Kenya. Wadongo holds a bachelors degree from the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology. He is testimony that great difficulties mould great men.
As a child, he walked close to ten kilometers to school but rose to recognition by among other organizations, the CNN. In 2006, he joined the Sustainable Development For All-Kenya (SDFA Kenya). Evans was featured in CNN’s ‘Top Ten Heroes of 2010’.
Social Enterprise:
- Director of Operations, SDFA Kenya
- CNN Top Ten Heroes 2010
- Forbes Africa recognition
- Solar energy solutions
18. Xtian Dela – KSh 60-100 Million (Age 33)
Entertainment Career:
- Radio and TV personality
- Event hosting and emceeing
- Brand ambassadorships
- Social media influence
19. KRG The Don – KSh 100-500 Million (Disputed) (Age 34)
During an interview on Citizen Digital, Karuga Kimani, known by the stage name KRG the Don, professes to be worth Ksh 4.2 billion.
Claimed Wealth:
- Self-proclaimed KSh 4.2 billion (heavily disputed)
- Music career
- Construction business
- Transport operations
- Tour and travel companies
Note: KRG’s wealth claims lack independent verification and are considered exaggerated by industry observers.
Success Factors for Kenya’s Young Millionaires
Several common patterns emerge among Kenya’s richest youth.
Digital Leverage
Technology Adoption:
- Social media marketing mastery
- YouTube and content monetization
- Digital payment integration
- E-commerce platforms
- Mobile-first business models
Multiple Income Streams
Successful young entrepreneurs rarely depend on single revenue sources:
- Primary business operations
- Investments in real estate
- Brand endorsements
- Content monetization
- Consulting and speaking fees
Early Start and Persistence
Common Traits:
- Started businesses in early 20s or teens
- Persisted through initial failures
- Reinvested profits for growth
- Continuous learning and adaptation
- Networking and mentorship
Education and Skills
Educational Background:
- Many hold university degrees
- Continuous skill development
- Industry-specific certifications
- Self-taught digital skills
- Business acumen development
Also Read:
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is officially the richest youth in Kenya?
According to article 260 of Kenya’s Constitution, a Youth is an individual who is aged between eighteen (18) years and thirty-four (34) years. Within this strict definition, June Syowia (27), Eugene Mbugua (32), Eric Muthomi (32), and Gloria Otieno (34) rank among the wealthiest.
However, Anerlisa Muigai, though technically 36, is often included in youth wealth discussions. Exact rankings are difficult due to lack of verified financial disclosures, but these individuals have net worths estimated between KSh 200 million to 1 billion+.
How did these young people become millionaires?
Most built wealth through entrepreneurship rather than inheritance. Common paths include starting technology companies, content creation and monetization, professional service firms, sustainable/green businesses, and strategic real estate investments.
Twenty-seven percent of the dollar millionaires or 803 of them are self-made and aged under 40, showing that entrepreneurship and innovation drive youth wealth creation in Kenya more than inheritance.
Can content creators really become millionaires in Kenya?
Yes, multiple Kenyan content creators have achieved millionaire status. Kenyan content creator Flaqo made over Sh 20 million during the COVID-19 pandemic period. Eve Mungai revealed she takes home over Sh 1.5 million monthly after monetising their content.
Revenue comes from YouTube AdSense, brand partnerships, sponsored content, event appearances, and merchandise. However, success requires consistency, quality content, audience engagement, and typically 2-3 years of building before significant income.
What businesses are most profitable for young Kenyans?
Based on success stories, technology and digital services, content creation and entertainment, professional services (HR, consulting), sustainable/green businesses, food and beverage (healthier options), and real estate development show highest profitability.
According to the 2022 Knight Frank Wealth report, Kenya is home to over 900 youthful millionaires, way above the global average, with technology and innovation sectors leading wealth creation among the youth.
How much capital is needed to start a million-shilling business?
Capital requirements vary dramatically. Gloria Otieno started R4Kenya with $2,000 of her savings, and within the last 4 years, she has grown the company into a $400,000 (annual revenues) business.
Content creators start with minimal capital (phone and internet), while manufacturing businesses like Stawi Foods or EcoPost require KSh 500,000 – 2 million initially. The key is starting with available resources, proving the business model, then reinvesting profits rather than waiting for large capital.
Are most rich youth from wealthy families?
Not necessarily. While some like Anerlisa Muigai come from wealthy backgrounds, many built wealth independently. Gloria Otieno started R4Kenya with $2,000, Joel Mwale came from modest background in Kitale, Evans Wadongo walked 10km to school as a child, and most content creators started with just phones and internet.
According to the Knight Frank report, 27% of dollar millionaires are self-made and under 40, showing opportunity exists regardless of family background.
What role does social media play in youth wealth?
Social media is critical for modern youth wealth creation. It provides free marketing and brand building, direct audience engagement, content monetization opportunities, influencer partnership potential, and customer acquisition channels. Anerlisa Muigai gets KSh 436,000 per paid post on Instagram.
Most successful young entrepreneurs leverage social media for business growth, personal branding, and additional income streams. Digital skills are essential for maximizing wealth-building opportunities.
How long does it take to become a millionaire in Kenya?
Timelines vary significantly. Some like Joel Mwale achieved it by age 19, while others took 5-10 years of building businesses. Typical timeline for substantial wealth (KSh 50+ million) is 5-10 years with successful business and reinvestment strategy.
Content creators might see results in 2-3 years with consistency. Traditional businesses usually take 7-15 years to reach multi-million status. Quick wealth is rare; most successful youth invested years of consistent effort before achieving millionaire status.
What mistakes should young entrepreneurs avoid?
Common mistakes include lifestyle inflation (spending instead of reinvesting profits), lack of financial discipline and record-keeping, avoiding mentorship and learning opportunities, trying to do everything alone without delegation, giving up too early (most businesses take 2-3 years to profit), ignoring digital marketing and social media, and not diversifying income streams.
Successful young millionaires consistently mention patience, continuous learning, financial discipline, and persistence as keys to wealth building.
Is it still possible for today’s youth to become millionaires?
Absolutely. Knight Frank Kenya managing director Ben Woodhams noted that young entrepreneurs in Kenya are well placed to take advantage of opportunities, with numbers above global average.
Current advantages include increased internet penetration and digital opportunities, mobile money simplifying transactions, growing middle class creating markets, venture capital availability for tech startups, and government youth enterprise funds.
Today’s opportunities through technology, content creation, and digital business models arguably provide more pathways to wealth than previous generations had.
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