Nestled at the border of Kenya and Uganda, in the vibrant heart of Busia Town, Busia County, stands the magnificent three-star Hotel Itoya.
Offering breathtaking panoramic views of Busia and its surroundings, this hotel has quickly become a sought-after destination for both leisure travelers and the business elite.
With its range of amenities, exceptional service, and strategic location, Hotel Itoya provides a delightful stay for guests seeking comfort, convenience, and memorable experiences.
A Tranquil Retreat
Hotel Itoya boasts 60 well-appointed rooms, each featuring single, twin, or king-size beds to accommodate different preferences.
Guests can expect a comfortable stay with en-suite bathrooms, spacious work desks, and ample wardrobe space.
The inclusion of amenities such as TVs and Wi-Fi Internet access ensures that guests can stay connected and entertained during their visit.
The hotel’s restaurant caters to every palate with a diverse menu of delicious dishes, and a delightful breakfast awaits guests each morning before they embark on their explorations of the bustling city.
Conference Facilities for Business and Events
Hotel Itoya understands the needs of business travelers and event organizers.
It offers a spacious conference room capable of accommodating up to 250 delegates.
Equipped with wireless internet connectivity and state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment, the venue ensures a seamless experience for organizers and participants alike.
The hotel has garnered recognition from the government, securing tenders to host significant functions such as the Madaraka Day celebration in Embu and the flagging of the Kipkeino Classic, a prestigious event graced by President William Ruto and hosted in Kasarani.
The Owner and the Tax Controversy
Charles Wesonga, the owner of Hotel Itoya, has found himself entangled in a tax controversy with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) in 2021.
The KRA raised a tax bill of Sh22 million against Wesonga for unexplained account deposits and unverified deals with the county government.
The controversy mainly stemmed from Wesonga having Sh5.2 million in a dormant account and receiving Sh57 million from Dan Omondi of Danlec Electrical Services, a supplier to the county government.
During the proceedings, Wesonga attempted to claim tax amnesty, but his plea was rejected as the amnesty had already expired.
Furthermore, he failed to provide sufficient evidence to support his claims.
The tribunal questioned the lack of documentation to prove the loan agreement between Wesonga and Omondi, as well as the absence of evidence that the county government’s contract with Omondi had been serviced.
The tribunal also noted discrepancies in the flow of funds, with loan repayments being deposited into Wesonga’s personal account instead of the affiliated business’s account.
