American RnB Star Kelis Buys 300 Acres in Kenya for KSh25 Million
American R&B star Kelis Rogers has purchased approximately 300 acres of land near Lake Naivasha in Kenya for an estimated KSh 25 million (under $200,000 USD), sparking widespread interest in the country's booming real estate and agriculture sectors.
The Grammy-nominated singer, famous for hits like "Milkshake," acquired the prime parcel overlooking the iconic Mount Longonot and bordering wildlife areas linked to Lake Naivasha National Park. Holding the land on a standard 99-year leasehold as a non-citizen, Kelis is transforming the property into a sustainable luxury wellness retreat and working farm under the name "We Farms," complete with solar-powered fencing to protect crops from elephants and other wildlife while preserving the local ecosystem through tree planting and biodiversity initiatives.
Kelis, whose net worth is estimated at around $3 million, relocated from her previous farm in California to raise her three children in what she describes as a safer, more grounded environment.** In a widely shared June 2025 podcast interview, she praised Kenya's economic opportunities in agriculture, technology, and finance, as well as its affordable healthcare and welcoming communities. The project already features active farming—most notably the successful harvest and sale of 50 tons of red and yellow onions—and plans for eco-friendly bungalows, glamping domes, a fine-dining restaurant, and wellness facilities. Kelis emphasizes job creation for locals, community partnerships, and sustainable living over charity, positioning the venture as a model for diaspora investment in Africa's projected $1 trillion agriculture market by 2030.
The acquisition has ignited broader debate about foreign land ownership in the fast-growing Naivasha region, a hub for horticulture exports, tourism, and luxury developments.** While critics express concerns over potential price inflation, resource competition, and long-term impacts on local communities, supporters highlight the economic benefits of job creation, tourism potential, and environmentally conscious development. Kelis has responded by stressing genuine collaboration and positive contribution, frequently sharing progress updates on social media—including family moments amid zebras, farm walks, and construction milestones. Once complete, "We Farms" could emerge as a notable destination blending high-end hospitality with nature-focused wellness in East Africa.
