David Kitonga: From Working as a Shopkeeper in the US to Owning a Multi-Billion Resort in Machakos

David Kitonga is a name synonymous with resilience and entrepreneurial spirit in Machakos County, Kenya.

As the proud owner of the Kitonga Garden Resort, a multi-billion-dollar hotel located in Mbiuni, Kitonga’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a successful entrepreneur is both inspiring and motivational.

Born and raised in Machakos, Kitonga hails from a large family of twelve children. His parents, who made a living by trading livestock, instilled in him the values of hard work and determination.

After completing his primary and secondary education, Kitonga pursued a career in education, training as a science teacher.

With a teaching career that spanned over 26 years, he worked in various institutions, including Siani Girls Secondary School and Central Secondary School in Eldoret.

His commitment to education even led him to become a senior examiner with the Kenya National Examinations Council.

In 2007, Kitonga’s life took a significant turn when he won a Green Card, allowing him to relocate to the United States.

This opportunity led him to take early retirement from his teaching career, and he moved to the US with dreams of a better life. Initially, he worked as a shopkeeper, making ends meet while waiting for his immigration papers.

This period of adjustment was crucial for Kitonga, as he learned valuable lessons while interacting with the American community.

Once his immigration papers were cleared, Kitonga quickly sought job opportunities that allowed him to bring his family over to the US.

Together with his wife, they juggled multiple jobs, including gas station attendant, healthcare aid, and construction worker.

Their two older children also contributed to the family’s finances, securing jobs of their own.

Their hard work eventually bore fruit, enabling the family to buy a house and even an office block, laying the groundwork for future investments.

Motivated by their success in the US, Kitonga and his wife decided to explore opportunities back in Kenya. They built three homes—two in Syokimau and one in Machakos—aiming to create a foundation for future investments.

Recognizing the potential for tourism and hospitality in Kenya, Kitonga purchased 100 acres of land in Mbiuni Hill from his cousins.

With the help of family members, including his children, who are professionals in engineering and design, he embarked on the ambitious project of building a hotel.

Kitonga Garden Resort was designed to be a unique destination, combining luxury and cultural richness. Kitonga emphasized that the hotel’s design was an original concept developed in collaboration with his family, showcasing their shared vision and commitment to quality.

Beyond the hotel, Kitonga’s commitment to the community extends to healthcare. After a medical emergency involving his granddaughter during a family visit, he recognized the dire need for medical facilities in the area.

This experience led to the establishment of Lydia Memorial Key Medical Centre in Mbiuni, which offers essential healthcare services, including post-natal clinics, accident and emergency services, and routine health checks.

Reflecting on his journey, Kitonga expresses immense pride in what he has achieved.

“Sometimes I look back and wonder whether all of this came from me and my family. It’s amazing to see how far we’ve come,” he shares.