RIP! Enashipai Resort and Spa owner John Kagema is dead

Enashipai Resort and Spa in Naivasha. /COURTESY
Enashipai Resort and Spa in Naivasha. /COURTESY
Renowned businessman John Kagema Mwangi who is also the owner of Enashipai Resort and Spa in Naivasha has died.

Mwangi who had been admitted at Aga Khan Hospital in Nairobi since last week died while undergoing treatment dealing a blow to the hospitality industry where he had invested millions.

The deceased will be best remembered for Enashipai resort which was ranked among the best hotels in world and won an international award of the best Spa.

Following the death, various leaders led by Nakuru Governor Lee Kinyanjui sent the condolences terming the deceased as a man who had turned the face and fortunes of Naivasha.

In a statement, Kinyanjui said that Mwangi was instrumental in the elevation of Naivasha as a leading destination for high profile meetings.

“His dedication and commitment to detail was unmatched, making Enashipai a favorable destination for high profile meetings,” said the Governor in his condolence message.

The sentiments were echoed by the chairman Naivasha Professional Association (NPA) Absolom Mukuusi who termed the death as a big loss to Naivasha.

He said that Mwangi would be best remembered for the international hotel which saw the number of local and international visitors rise.

“The hotel is one of its kind and has offered tens of Naivasha residents job opportunities and we wish the family strength at this hard times when they have lost their dad,” he said.

On his part, Kamau Njuguna a director representing Kenya in the East Africa chamber of commerce and industry said that they were still in shock following the death.

He said that Mwangi saw the value of investing in the hospitality industry in Nakuru County transforming the lives of many through job opportunities.

“We pass our sincere condolences to the family as they mourn a great man who invested millions in Naivasha and was keen to support needy cases,” he said.

A member of the family who declined to be named confirmed the death adding that they were still in shock and trying to come to terms with the loss.

“Its true mzee passed on yesterday Wednesday where he had been undergoing treatment since last week and the burial plans have already started,” said the kin.

Antony Gitonga