From Chairman to CEO

The journey of building Africa's next great hospitality brand — one property, one dream, one vision at a time.

Martin Muriithi Wanyiri

The Dream Begins

From Humble Beginnings to Bold Vision

Born and raised in Ongata Rongai, Kajiado, Martin Muriithi Wanyiri grew up with one fear: poverty. That fear became his fuel. Through sheer determination and relentless work ethic, he transformed that fear into a driving force for success.

Before founding Mokawa, Martin served as Chief Commercial Officer – Africa for a Norwegian e-commerce firm for 7 years, and prior to that as Sales Director at Nairobi Safari Club Hotel. But the entrepreneurial fire burned brighter than any paycheck.

"The only fear I had growing up was poverty. By God's grace, I beat that fear. Today, I own my mansion, my cars, my life — all fully funded by sheer hard work."
Martin Muriithi - Founder

A New Chapter Begins

From Chairman to Founder & CEO

Six years ago, Martin joined a company with a dream: to help build something that would shape the hospitality landscape in Africa. He traveled, scaled, opened doors, and closed deals. Property by property, country by country, he gave it everything.

Many knew him as "Chairman." But in 2024, Martin made his boldest move yet — launching Mokawa Hospitality Group as Founder & CEO.

"The pen is now in my hands. I'm excited (and a little emotional) to announce that I've launched my own company — where I now serve as Founder & CEO. Yes, the Chairman now signs in as CEO. God did it."

4+

Hotels Managed

100+

Team Members

3

Cities

2024

Founded

Martin Muriithi CEO

Building Mokawa

More Than Hotels — A Movement

Today, Mokawa proudly manages boutique hotels across Nairobi, Nyeri, and Malindi. Under Martin's leadership, over 100+ dedicated professionals — chefs, housekeepers, receptionists, security guards, hotel managers, accountants, and a brilliant sales team — are united by one mission: to elevate hospitality through culture, class, and care.

Mokawa is more than a business — it's a bold move to redefine boutique hospitality across Africa. From coastal retreats to city escapes, we are leasing and managing beautiful properties with heart, heritage, and high standards.

The Journey

2024

Mokawa Founded

Martin launches Mokawa Hospitality Group, taking the leap from employee to entrepreneur.

Q1 2024

First Properties Acquired

Silver Rock Boutique Resort (Malindi) and Eldon Villas (Nairobi - previously managed) join the portfolio, marking Mokawa's entry into hospitality management.

6 Months Later

Paradise Farm Cottage

Mokawa signs Paradise Farm Cottage in Nyeri — expanding operations to the highlands.

2025

Kiikalloh Grand Resort

Mokawa partners with Kiikalloh Grand Resort in Machakos, bringing serene hospitality to the region.

Today

100+ Team Members Strong

Mokawa now manages 4 properties and employs over 100 professionals across Kenya, serving guests daily.

Martin and Mary Wanjiku

The Team Behind the Vision

Leadership That Delivers

Martin Muriithi Wanyiri — Founder & CEO
A husband, father of three, and hospitality veteran with over 15 years of experience in sales, operations, and business development across Africa.

Mary Wanjiku — Head of Operations
A seasoned hospitality professional with deep expertise in hotel management, staff training, and quality standards implementation.

Together, they lead a team committed to excellence, authenticity, and African hospitality at its finest.

Join the Journey

We're looking for properties ready to be transformed and partners ready to grow. Whether you own a hotel or want to invest in hospitality, let's build something remarkable together.

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