(Kajiado) – From Arid Land to a Thriving Oasis: How One Kenyan Transformed a Desert Plot
Elijah Oenga inherited an 18-acre arid plot in Oloosirkon, Tuala, Kajiado County, and transformed it into a thriving business hub and eco-tourism destination. His Ubuntu Kreative Village now serves as a model for environmental restoration and sustainable development.
When Oenga first inherited the land in 1998 as a student, he doubted its potential. “I never thought anything of value could come from this semi-arid land,” he remarked. Selling it was not an option, so he chose to reimagine its future. In 2017, after leaving his job as a procurement manager and lecturer, he established Ubuntu Kreative Village, combining eco-tourism, farming, and art. Today, it is a vibrant center that attracts both locals and international visitors.
Ubuntu Kreative Village offers diverse services: holiday retreats, short-term rental homes for families and couples, art spaces, music studios, an event garden, and wellness facilities like a spa with a sauna and Jacuzzi. The property also boasts a swimming pool, fruit orchards, and a greenhouse farm.
Inspired by the serene environment of Baraton University, where he studied, and the picturesque landscapes of Scotland, Oenga began planting trees during the rainy season in 2017. “The tranquil beauty at Baraton and in parts of the UK, especially Scotland, motivated me to replicate something similar on my land,” he explained.
Initially, he invested KSh 300,000 (approximately $2,000) in greenhouse farming, cultivating basil for export. This venture has grown to 14 greenhouses and includes onions and a variety of fruits. The farm also supports livestock such as chickens, ducks, rabbits, and Gala goats. Oenga’s produce commands competitive prices: a kilogram of basil sells for KSh 400 ($2.65) abroad, while onions fetch KSh 70–100 ($0.46–0.66) per kilogram locally.
Ubuntu Kreative Village generates additional income through its guest accommodations, priced between KSh 8,000 and KSh 25,000 ($53–165) per night depending on the room type. Visitors are welcomed by vibrant flowers and African-inspired decor that enhance the serene atmosphere.
The venue’s event garden is popular for weddings, music performances, acting workshops, and cooking competitions. Its art gallery showcases African-themed paintings, while its wellness center provides relaxation spaces. “People lead busy lives, and Ubuntu Kreative Village offers the peace they seek,” Oenga stated.
The transformation of the land has also benefited the local ecosystem. “When I started, it was rare to see birds here. Now, over 20 species visit the area regularly,” Oenga said proudly.
Oenga’s vision has not been without challenges. He has faced losses from farming ventures such as strawberries, tomatoes, bell peppers, and poultry. Nonetheless, he advises entrepreneurs to invest only what they can afford to lose and to persist despite setbacks.
Currently, the project employs 12 permanent staff and up to 20 temporary workers during peak seasons. However, Oenga acknowledges the difficulty of finding skilled labor. As the chairman of the Oloosirkon Residents’ Environmental Committee, he advocates for environmental conservation and encourages schools and residents to plant trees to combat climate change.
Ubuntu Kreative Village stands eight kilometers from Ongata Rongai town and exemplifies the power of innovation, perseverance, and environmental stewardship in transforming barren land into a thriving community asset.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Oloosirkon, Tuala, Kajiado County |
| Initial Investment | KSh 300,000 ($2,000) |
| Land Size Utilized | 5 acres (of 18 total) |
| Main Enterprises | Eco-tourism, greenhouse farming, art, wellness |
| Accommodation Costs | KSh 8,000–25,000 ($53–165) per night |
| Key Crops | Basil, onions, fruits |
| Employment | 12 permanent, up to 20 temporary workers |
| Distance to Town | 8 kilometers from Ongata Rongai |