In a world where adversity often defines one’s trajectory, the story of Polycarp Ochola serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration.
Born and raised in the sprawling, poverty-ridden Manyatta slum on the outskirts of Kisumu county, Ochola’s journey from these humble beginnings to becoming a successful entrepreneur proved that even in the most challenging circumstances, success can be achieved through hard work, determination, and a steadfast belief in one’s dreams.
Here is his story as told by WoK.
Born into a polygamous family with limited means, Ochola’s pursuit of education was marked by hardship.
“I was raised in an extremely humble background; my late father didn’t even have a bicycle,” he recalls during an interview with Tuko.co.ke.
Even in the face of financial constraints, Ochola managed to acquire an education, first at Ramba Boys High School and later at Ambira High School, setting the stage for his journey ahead.
He later graduated at the University of Nairobi with a Political Science degree.
This education would prove to be the foundation upon which he would build his future empire.
Ochola’s journey began with humble beginnings in the employment sector.
After completing his education, he worked at various security firms, including Securicor Kenya Limited and Patriotic Guards Limited.
However, the spark of entrepreneurship ignited in 2000 when he founded Guardforce Security Tanzania Limited.
This was just the beginning, as he later established ADT Security Kenya Limited, a company that has employed over 3500 guards nationwide, contributing not only to his own success but also providing employment opportunities for many.
Beyond the security industry, Ochola’s ventures expanded into various sectors.
His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Smartassets Properties Limited, a business dealing in the buying and selling of land and properties.
He also ventured into the fuel industry, establishing a chain of petrol stations under Excel Logistics Limited, contributing to the economic development of Kisumu County and its environs.
Ochola’s foray into agriculture was equally impressive.
He established Kamili Coffee Estates, owning around 30 acres of coffee farms in the Koru and Fortenan areas.
One of his most notable achievements is the establishment of the Koru Country Club, a four-star hotel nestled in the serene environment of Koru, Kisumu County.
The hotel boasts 56 rooms, four cottages, a presidential suite, restaurants, bars, conference facilities, a modern swimming pool, and a well-groomed garden.
Ochola’s journey has not been without challenges. He survived a horrific car accident in 2023.
n June 1, 2023, I was involved in a horrific accident at 10.30 pm. I was on my way home from Koru Country Club, when I had a head-on collision with a Sampa Matatu; I was driving my Range Rover Vogue,” he said.
Nevertheless, his resilience and unwavering faith helped him overcome setbacks and continue his journey towards success.
Family remains at the heart of Ochola’s achievements. A proud father of two sons, Max and Tedd, both of whom pursued education internationally.
Ochola was a former gubernatorial aspirant in Kisumu county during the 2022 elections.
He vied under the Kenya Kwanza coalition.
