Jared Otieno has cut an enviable name for himself in the competitive world of business. The entrepreneur business acumen has seen his name mentioned among the wealthiest young individuals in the country.
WoK takes a look at his entrepreneurial journey and what makes him tick.
Early Life and Education
Jared Kiasa Otieno was born in 1987. He attended Rapedhi Primary School in Homabay before completing his primary education at Kanga Primary School. He later pursued his O-levels at Kanga High School.
After completing high school, Jared joined the University of Nairobi, where he obtained a degree in engineering.
Additionally, he pursued further studies in the United States, enhancing his knowledge and skills.
Business Ventures
Jared Otieno is the founder and CEO of Express Feeders Ltd, a prominent company in Kenya.
He has held this position since January 2001, showcasing his extensive experience in the business field.
Express Feeders Group, under his leadership, has branches and regional representatives across the globe, reflecting his ambition for worldwide presence and influence.
International Education and Diverse Business Portfolio
Born in Kenya and educated in the United States of America, Jared Otieno possesses a broad range of business interests.
His portfolio spans multiple industries, reflecting his entrepreneurial spirit and drive for success.
While specific details about his various ventures are not readily available, his involvement in transportation, manufacturing, and shipping showcases his diverse business pursuits.
Personal Life and Marriage
The entrepeneur is happily married to Kendi Mwiti, a daughter of a prominent Meru doctor. The couple’s wedding ceremony was nothing short of extraordinary, held at the prestigious Windsor Golf and Country Club in Nairobi.
Surrounded by family, friends, and notable personalities, the event was a testament to their love and Otieno’s commitment to showcasing his devotion in a grand manner.
The couple has two children, whose privacy they have chosen to protect by keeping him out of the public eye.
Extravagant Pre-Wedding and Wedding
He garnered significant attention for his opulent pre-wedding and wedding ceremonies.
To demonstrate his commitment and love for Kendi, he organized a lavish pre-wedding celebration, spending over Ksh15 million.
The event made headlines as four helicopters, five Porsche cars, and a Mercedes Benz made a grand entrance in Meru.
The wedding ceremony itself was held at the prestigious Windsor Golf and Country Club in Nairobi.
The event featured extravagant decorations, and Kendi arrived at the venue in a white horse carriage, creating a fairy-tale-like atmosphere.
Distinguished guests from the Kenyan government and entertainment industry were in attendance, including notable figures such as comedian Jalang’o, DJ Protégé, and Governor Anyang Nyong’o.
Luxurious Assets
Jared Otieno owns a luxurious house in Karen, which he acquired for Ksh110 million in 2016 from Cytonn Investments. The house showcases a distinctive Greek classic design, boasting four bedrooms, an outdoor swimming pool, and meticulously maintained gardens adorned with fluffy Arabica grass.
Additionally, Jared possesses a customized Porsche valued at Ksh30 million, featuring his name prominently displayed on various parts of the vehicle. Furthermore, he owns a Bentley, further exemplifying his opulent lifestyle.
Philanthropic Contributions
Beyond his entrepreneurial endeavors, Jared Otieno is a philanthropist at heart, committed to giving back to society. His philanthropic efforts have touched the lives of many, uplifting communities and creating opportunities for those in need.
Through his foundation, the Jared Otieno Foundation, he was in the frontline families in rural areas were severely impacted by COVID 19 and the second wave of infections. This initiative marked the second phase of food distribution in Ndhiwa Sub County. Mr. Otieno stated that he decided to allocate additional funds to help residents of his home county and intends to extend support to other sub-counties as well.
He added that “We will not stop here. This pandemic has taught us to be our brothers’ keeper. We will continue to use the resources provided to us to help those in need, especially in the rural areas.”
The aid program, initiated by the Jared Otieno Foundation, targeted elderly individuals, people with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups. A total of 1,400 households received food items such as wheat and maize flour, sugar, salt, cooking oil, and rice. Non-food items like soap and face masks were also distributed.
On His 2022 Gubernatorial Bid
Jared Otieno Kiasa withdrew his bid for the Homa Bay gubernatorial seat and instead decided to support Suba South MP John Mbadi in the elections. The move came amidst intense competition for the nomination certificates within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), with party primaries scheduled for April.
Kiasa made the decision after consulting with his family and supporters, stating that he was still young and might consider running for office in the future. He expressed confidence in Mbadi’s manifesto and believed that he had a strong plan for the county compared to other candidates in the race. Kiasa was one of eight aspirants who stepped down, leaving MP Mbadi to compete against seven remaining contenders for the gubernatorial seat.
