The Rift Jewel: Sergoit Golf and Wildlife Resorts

By James Waindi

Golf and tourism enthusiasts have something to smile about following the launch of Sergoit Golf and Wildlife Resorts on Thursday evening, an investment described as the 'Jewel of the Rift Valley' and reminiscent of international championships courses upon its completion in 2015.

The resort was launched at a colourful function in a Nairobi hotel attended by Tourism Minister Najib Balala, three Rift Valley MPs and Standard Group Deputy Chairman and Chief Strategist Paul Melly, among other dignitaries.

Balala lauded the initiative noting that it would diversify tourism from the traditional Masai Mara and Coast.

"This is a historic day. The idea is great and we must ensure it succeeds. Dubai is now the hub of the world because of such investments and Kenya has equal capability. These are the types of residential properties in most parts of South Africa. I believe it is the way to go. My ministry will offer every kind of support needed," said Balala.

The chairman of Sergoit Holdings Limited Joshua Chepkwony said the plan of the project was to build prime residential, sports and business village located 15km north east of Eldoret town in four phases. It will feature more than 2,000 villas, three golf courses, a five-star hotel, a shopping mall, conference centre, private hospital, wildlife sanctuary, and an airstrip on a 3,100-acre piece of land.

Sports and tourism

Chepkwony, who is also the chairman of Jamii Telecoms, said the idea was born out of discussions with business-minded Kenyans from the region and is a hybrid of several ideas borrowed from South Africa, Nairobi’s Tatu City, Thika Greens and Kiambu’s Migaa.

"The project blends recreational, residential, sport and touristic features and represents a significantly upgrade of leisure and healthy lifestyle facilities in the Rift Valley. The most striking feature of the property is Sergoit Hill, a tree covered rocky ridge spanning 400 acres dominating the flat landscape," said Chepkwony.

He added: "Views from the hill are awe inspiring on a clear day, with the scenic Mount Kenya to the East and the panoramic Mount Elgon to the west. To the south one can also see the rolling Nandi Hills and the expansive Cherengany Hills in the north." The property is also expected to have a series of beautifully constructed luxury homes or villas, a retirement home and a five-star hotel.

"For the first time in Kenya, we will also bring you three world class golfing facilities that will act as focal points for the houses. The 9-hole golf course, the exclusive 18-hole PGA standard membership course and the 9-hole Active Retirement golf course would each have a well outfitted club house and sports shop," he said.