The Entrepreneur

Richard Evans: Business Mogul in Kenya’s Horticulture and Hospitality

“In the long run, your reputation is everything,” says Sir Richard “Dicky” Evans.

Published

2 months ago

October 7, 2024

Sir Richard ‘Dicky’ Evans was honoured with a Knighthood in The King’s New Year’s Honours list, on Tuesday, July 9,2024 Sir Richard’s investiture, conducted by King Charles, took place at Windsor Castle. Sir Richard was accompanied by Lady Jytte Evans and their three children Louisa, Ross, and Emma.

:Richard Evans, a pioneer in Kenya’s horticulture and hospitality sectors, transformed adversity into opportunity. His companies, including Flamingo Horticulture and Hemingways Hotels, have set new standards in sustainable agriculture and luxury tourism while creating lasting impacts on local communities. Knighted for his contributions, Evans continues to inspire with his values of innovation, resilience, and integrity. From exporting Kenyan produce to nurturing young entrepreneurs, his legacy underscores the power of business to drive development in East Africa.

By Charles Wachira

Richard Evans’ entrepreneurial journey is a testament to resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to East Africa’s development. Recently knighted in King Charles III’s New Year’s Honours List, Evans has made a significant impact on Kenya’s horticulture and hospitality industries while maintaining strong ties to British sports, particularly rugby.

A Journey Born Out of Adversity

Evans’ connection to East Africa began in the early 1970s, under challenging circumstances. After completing his undergraduate degree in Engineering from King’s College, London, he traveled to Uganda to teach local engineers how to build UN-funded clean water systems. However, his time in Uganda was tragically cut short during Idi Amin’s coup d’état in 1971, when two of his colleagues were killed. Evans was evacuated from the country later that year, leaving behind a region in turmoil but carrying with him a deep connection to East Africa.

That same year, Evans arrived in Kenya—a country that would become the cornerstone of his business success. “Kenya gave me a second chance,” he recalls. “The potential was immense, and I knew that my engineering skills could make a significant difference.”

Building a Horticulture Empire

In 1982, Evans founded Homegrown, a horticulture company that capitalized on Kenya’s fertile land and favorable climate. His goal was to improve fruit, vegetable, and flower production using modern irrigation techniques. Homegrown, later rebranded as Flamingo Horticulture, quickly grew to become one of the largest exporters of flowers, fruits, and vegetables to Europe.

“The key to success in agriculture is innovation,” Evans says. “We introduced modern irrigation methods that improved yields while conserving water, and that set us apart.” By the early 2000s, Flamingo Horticulture was employing thousands of Kenyans and playing a major role in the country’s agricultural exports.

Evans’ commitment to sustainable farming practices and technological advancements helped his company thrive, even as global markets fluctuated. “Success isn’t just about profits—it’s about creating value for the community,” Evans emphasizes. “Our growth has always been tied to improving the livelihoods of the people around us.”

Expanding into the Hospitality Industry

In 1997, Evans ventured into the hospitality industry by launching Hemingways Watamu, a luxury hotel on Kenya’s coast. The hotel quickly became a go-to destination for international tourists, offering high-end service while preserving Kenya’s unique coastal culture. Following the success of Hemingways Watamu, Evans opened Hemingways Karen in Nairobi and Ol Seki Mara, a luxury tented camp in the Maasai Mara known for its eco-friendly safari experiences.

“Hemingways was about showcasing the beauty of Kenya to the world,” Evans explains. “We wanted to offer unmatched luxury while ensuring that our operations respected Kenya’s natural environment.”

Today, Hemingways Hotels are recognized for their excellent service, luxury, and dedication to conservation. “The hospitality business is about providing experiences, not just accommodations. We focused on creating unforgettable memories while ensuring that we preserved the environment.”

Richard Evans and Rugby: From Captain to Chairman

Beyond his success in business, Evans made his mark in the world of rugby. He captained Kenya’s national rugby team in the early 1970s and later became the Chairman of Nondescripts RFC, one of the oldest and most prestigious rugby clubs in Kenya. In addition, Evans owned a British rugby team, underscoring his lifelong passion for the sport. “Rugby taught me the value of teamwork and discipline, lessons I’ve carried into my businesses,” Evans notes.

Lessons in Success: Resilience, Innovation, and Integrity

Reflecting on his entrepreneurial journey, Evans attributes his success to three core principles: resilience, innovation, and integrity.

Resilience: “Every business faces challenges. What matters is how you handle them.” Evans has experienced numerous hurdles, from political instability to economic volatility, but he never let those obstacles derail his vision. “You must keep going, no matter how difficult things get.”
Innovation: Throughout his career, Evans has been a firm believer in the power of innovation. “You can’t stand still in business. Whether it was introducing modern farming techniques or creating luxury eco-friendly hotels, we always stayed ahead by embracing new ideas.”
Integrity: “In the long run, your reputation is everything,” Evans emphasizes. Whether paying fair wages to his farm workers or promoting sustainable tourism, he has always placed ethical practices at the heart of his businesses. “People do business with those they respect. Trust is the foundation of lasting success.”

Challenges and Achievements

Evans’ ventures were not without challenges. In the early days of Homegrown, scaling up the business and managing international logistics was particularly difficult. “Exporting fresh produce while maintaining quality was a logistical nightmare at times,” he shares. In the hospitality sector, navigating regulatory hurdles around land use and environmental conservation posed additional challenges. “But those challenges pushed us to be more innovative,” Evans says.

Despite these hurdles, Evans’ businesses flourished. Flamingo Horticulture became a leader in sustainable agriculture, while Hemingways Hotels set a new standard for luxury tourism in Kenya.

A Role Model in Business

Evans credits much of his success to his early experiences in engineering and agriculture in East Africa, as well as the influence of notable entrepreneurs like Sir Richard Branson. “Branson’s ability to reinvent himself and his businesses across different industries is something I admire,” Evans says. “He taught me that taking risks and challenging the status quo are key to long-term success.”

Looking to the Future: Mentoring the Next Generation

Now in his later years, with a knighthood under his belt, Evans remains focused on expanding his ventures and mentoring young entrepreneurs. “Kenya has given me so much, and I want to give back by supporting the next generation of business leaders.”

His advice for aspiring entrepreneurs? “Take risks, think differently, and always keep your integrity intact. The opportunities in this country are limitless if you have the vision and the grit to pursue them.”

Leaving a Lasting Legacy

For Richard Evans, success is not measured by profits alone but by the positive impact his businesses have had on communities. His ventures in horticulture and hospitality have created jobs, supported families, and contributed to Kenya’s global standing.

“At the end of the day, success is about making a difference,” Evans concludes. “If you can leave a lasting, positive impact, you’ve done something truly worthwhile.”

Richard Evans’ story is a remarkable example of what resilience, innovation, and integrity can achieve—qualities that earned him a knighthood and cemented his place as one of East Africa’s most influential business figures.

Keywords:Richard Evans Kenya entrepreneur:Flamingo Horticulture success:Hemingways luxury hotels:Kenya horticulture industry:Sustainable tourism Kenya

She Business

Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu: From Ethiopian Artisan to Global Icon

Published

2 weeks ago

December 2, 2024

Charles Wachira

: Discover how Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu built SoleRebels into a global,
sustainable footwear brand, overcoming challenges and transforming Ethiopian
craftsmanship.

Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu’s story begins in Zenabwork, a modest village on the outskirts
of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Growing up, she watched her community struggle with unemployment and poverty, despite a rich heritage of artisanal skills that remained largely untapped.

Fueled by determination and a desire to transform her surroundings, Bethlehem
embarked on a journey that would redefine African entrepreneurship and put Ethiopia
on the global map.

Her creation, SoleRebels, isn’t just a footwear brand. It’s a movement—an embodiment
of sustainability, culture, and empowerment.

A DREAM WOVEN WITH TRADITION

In 2005, Bethlehem founded SoleRebels with a simple yet powerful idea: to turn
Ethiopia’s rich artisanal craftsmanship into eco-friendly, globally competitive footwear.
Inspired by traditional “selate” shoes—made from recycled tyres—she envisioned a
brand that blended cultural authenticity with modern design.

She recruited local artisans, many of whom were unemployed, and encouraged them to
innovate while preserving traditional techniques.

Every pair of shoes was a masterpiece, crafted from hand-spun cotton, organic
materials, and repurposed car tyres. Bethlehem’s concept was groundbreaking: a product that told a story while making a global impact.

STARTING FROM SCRATCH

Like many entrepreneurs, Bethlehem’s initial challenge was capital.
With no access to bank loans or large investors, she relied on personal savings and
modest contributions from her family.

Slowly but surely, she built her business, reinvesting profits into training workers and
improving production tools. International grants and initiatives like the SEED Initiative later recognized the potential of her venture, providing additional support.

The early days weren’t easy. Artisans lacked modern tools, and accessing raw
materials was an uphill battle. But Bethlehem, known for her tenacity, tackled these challenges head-on. She developed partnerships with local suppliers to ensure a consistent supply of quality materials and invested in upskilling her workforce.

Breaking into the global market presented another hurdle. Competing against established brands seemed daunting, but Bethlehem found her edge: sustainability and ethical production.
In an era when consumers were becoming eco-conscious, SoleRebels’ ethos of fair wages, recycled materials, and cultural storytelling resonated deeply.

BUILDING A GLOBAL EMPIRE

Fast forward to today, and SoleRebels has a presence in over 30 countries, with
flagship stores in cities like San Francisco, Tokyo, and Barcelona.
It is also the first African footwear brand to be certified by the World Fair Trade
Organization (WFTO)—a testament to Bethlehem’s commitment to doing business the
right way.

Her company directly and indirectly employs over 1,200 people, making it one of
Ethiopia’s largest employers in the artisan sector.
Workers earn more than three times the industry average, a policy Bethlehem takes
immense pride in. “When we pay people well, we don’t just change lives—we transform
communities,” she says.

MENTORS AND INSPIRATIONS

Bethlehem often credits her late grandfather, a farmer and community leader, as her
greatest mentor.

His work ethic and deep belief in the power of local communities shaped her vision. She
also draws inspiration from global leaders, including Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy
Ahmed, whose focus on innovation and economic growth aligns with her goals.

RISING ABOVE CHALLENGES

Bethlehem’s entrepreneurial journey has been marked by resilience. When production
scaled up, she faced supply chain disruptions that threatened deadlines. Her solution?
Cultivate long-term relationships with reliable local suppliers and diversify material
sources.

Entering new markets came with its own set of obstacles. Competing against
established brands requires a unique value proposition.

SoleRebels offered more than shoes—it offered a story: a product steeped in Ethiopian
culture, made sustainably, and crafted ethically.

VISION FOR THE FUTURE

Bethlehem isn’t slowing down. Her plans include:

● Expanding SoleRebels’ retail presence in Europe and Asia.
● Introducing sustainable clothing lines.
● Partnering with global brands to promote eco-friendly production in Africa.

Beyond SoleRebels, Bethlehem has a broader mission: to inspire a new narrative for
African entrepreneurship. She wants to show the world that Africa isn’t just a consumer
market but a hub for innovation and excellence.

CONCLUSION: WALKING THE TALK

Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu has redefined what it means to be an entrepreneur. From
Zenabwork’s dirt roads to the global stage, she has shown that success doesn’t come
from resources alone—it comes from vision, grit, and a deep connection to one’s roots.

With SoleRebels, Bethlehem has not only created a thriving business but a model for
how sustainable, ethical enterprises can transform communities. As she continues to
dream big, her footsteps pave the way for the next generation of African changemakers.

She Business

Joyce Akinyi Convicted: Heroin Smuggling Case Exposed

Published

2 weeks ago

December 2, 2024

Charles Wachira

: Kenyan businesswoman Joyce Akinyi faces life imprisonment after being found
guilty of smuggling heroin worth US$ 34,483. Her history with crime has now
unravelled.

Joyce Teresia Akinyi’s story is one of dramatic highs and lows—rising from a successful
businesswoman to being convicted of a large-scale heroin smuggling operation.
With ties to international criminal networks, high-profile relationships, and repeated run-
ins with the law, Akinyi’s life has been marked by controversy and legal battles.

THE HIGH LIFE: BUSINESS AND INFLUENCE

Akinyi first gained prominence as the upscale Deep West Resort owner in Lang’ata,
Nairobi. Known for her affluent lifestyle, she mingled with Kenya’s elite and maintained
significant business interests.

However, behind the glamorous facade lay a darker world of alleged criminal activity.
Her personal life was equally turbulent. In 1998, she met Nigerian businessman Anthony Chinedu, and the couple had two children before formalising their union.

Their relationship was rocky, marked by numerous arrests on drug trafficking charges.
In 2013, Chinedu was deported from Kenya after authorities seized drugs in his
possession, a move that further exposed Akinyi to public scrutiny.

A HISTORY OF LEGAL TROUBLES

Over the years, Akinyi faced repeated allegations of drug trafficking. Her name became
prominent in 2008 when she was arrested in New Delhi, India, alongside former
Budalang’i MP Raphael Wanjala.

Authorities detained the pair with undeclared cash worth Sh7.59 million, suspected to
be linked to drug deals. Although released after intervention by the Kenyan government, the incident marked the start of a string of legal troubles for Akinyi.

In 2013, she and Wanjala were arrested again on the Nairobi-Namanga highway with a
suspicious white powder. Although they claimed it was corn flour, suspicions persisted,
and Akinyi’s criminal associations deepened.

THE TURNING POINT: CONVICTION FOR HERION SMUGGLING

Akinyi’s criminal activities reached a dramatic conclusion in 2019 when a police raid on
Deep West Resort uncovered 2kg of heroin worth Sh5 million hidden in a shoe rack.
The Anti-Narcotics Directorate linked the operation to an international smuggling
network coordinated by Akinyi.

The Jomo Kenyatta International Airport Tribunal found Akinyi guilty under Article
4(a) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Control Act, which
mandates life imprisonment for drug trafficking.

The court heard compelling evidence, including photographs of heroin wrapped in white
tape, voice recordings coordinating smuggling activities, and the discovery of a Tabita
Digital Scale used to weigh drugs.

Akinyi’s co-defendants, Paulin Kalala Musankinshay and Peres Adhiambo, were
similarly implicated. Evidence also revealed that Akinyi used multiple fake passports, including a Congolese passport in the names of “Mape Marline Kambura” and “Raha Eveline
Kambere,” enabling her to operate under different aliases.

FINANCIAL CRIMES AND ASSET RECOVERY

Beyond drug trafficking, Akinyi’s wealth came under scrutiny. In 2021, she lost two
luxury vehicles worth Sh20 million to the State, deemed proceeds of crime.
Investigations by the Asset Recovery Agency revealed that Akinyi deposited
suspiciously large sums ranging from Sh60,000 to Sh20 million into various bank
accounts. Her real estate investments—villas built and rented out—further indicated
illicit income sources.

THE END OF THE ROAD

On December 10, 2024, Akinyi faces sentencing, which could include life
imprisonment and a Sh5 million fine. Her fall from grace highlights the dangers of
unchecked ambition and illegal pursuits. Magistrate Njeri Thuku, who presided over the

case, dismissed Akinyi’s defence that the drugs were planted by her estranged husband
Chinedu, calling it baseless.

CONCLUSION

From her meteoric rise as a business mogul to her conviction as a drug trafficker, Joyce
Akinyi’s life is a cautionary tale of how power, wealth, and crime can intertwine.

Her story also underscores Kenya’s ongoing battle with drug trafficking and the far-reaching
consequences of organised crime. For Akinyi, the glitz and glamour of her former life
have now given way to the stark reality of justice.

Nb: Exchange rate 1 USD = 145 Ksh

The Entrepreneur

Miss Rwanda 2022, Divine Muheto, Faces Drink-Driving Scandal

Published

3 weeks ago

November 21, 2024

Charles Wachira

: Miss Rwanda 2022, Divine Muheto, was arrested for drink-driving, fined, and
detained after a car crash. She expresses regret and seeks forgiveness for her
actions.

From Beauty Queen to Legal Controversy

Divine Muheto, 21, crowned Miss Rwanda 2022, rose to prominence as a symbol of
beauty and ambition. She always believed she had what it took to achieve her childhood
dream of becoming a beauty queen.

Her journey began after high school when she entered the Miss Rwanda competition,
ultimately claiming the coveted title.

Reflecting on her success, she once said, “When you fear, you can’t make anything
different in life, but when you are fearless, a lot of positive things come your way.”

Legal Troubles in 2024

However, her reign as Miss Rwanda has been overshadowed by controversy. In late
2024, Muheto was arrested following a drink-driving incident in Kigali.

Reports from the Rwanda National Police (RNP) confirmed that she was caught driving
under the influence of alcohol without a valid license, resulting in a crash that destroyed
public infrastructure, including a street light pole and palm trees.

The police also noted that Muheto fled the scene of the accident. She was subsequently
fined 190,000 Rwandan francs (approximately $140) and detained.

This incident marked a troubling pattern, as the beauty queen had previously faced
similar charges in September 2023, when she crashed her car into a building while
driving drunk.

Silent Remorse and Public Engagement

Muheto, the daughter of Assistant Commissioner of Police Francis Muheto, has
remained largely silent in the media following her arrest, though her legal team has
expressed that she deeply regrets her actions and has sought forgiveness.

Despite this, she continues to be a public figure, engaged in various activities. Her legal troubleshave raised concerns, but she remains resolute in her belief that life’s challenges present growth opportunities.

Inspirational Messages and Support System

While her parents have largely stayed out of the spotlight, Divine Muheto has continued
to inspire many young people in Rwanda, emphasising resilience and self-improvement.
She once said, “I knew I had what it takes to the last dot,” and even in the face of
adversity, she strives to move forward, learning from her mistakes and striving to make
a positive impact.