Revealed: Kihika, Husband Behind Exclusive Hotel Near State House Nakuru

A major hospitality project near Nakuru’s State House, the Encore Hotel, has been confirmed as the investment of businessman Sam Mburu, husband of Governor Susan Kihika.

The multi-billion shilling development has raised questions in Parliament regarding its scale and proximity to State House, prompting Mr Mburu to clarify his involvement. He confirmed that both he and his wife are behind the venture and assured the public that all necessary regulatory approvals were obtained before construction began. 

“Large projects like this require proper oversight,” he said, emphasising that the site does not compromise the security of State House.

Pastor David Mwangi, Chairman of the Nakuru Tourism Association and project manager, also supported the development, saying that the hotel had received all required approvals from the county planning office, the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA), and the Public Health department. Mwangi described the Encore Hotel as a major development for the region’s tourism, with the potential to attract both corporate and leisure visitors.

Designed to include 205 rooms, ranging from deluxe and executive suites to a presidential suite, the hotel also boasts 23 meeting rooms, a grand ballroom, and a 3,500 square metre events garden. These features aim to make Nakuru a hub for conferences, exhibitions, and destination events. Additional amenities include a wellness centre, spa, swimming pool, multiple restaurants, lounges, and ample parking.

Located strategically near the Nairobi–Nakuru highway, the Encore Hotel is expected to enhance Nakuru’s standing as a competitive destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE), as well as wellness and transit tourism.