By Harold Ayodo
Set beside the vast waters of the worldâs largest fresh water lake, Kisumuâs landed gentry wake up to the panoramic views of Lake Victoria.
From atop their verandas and terraces they take in the calm beauty of the lake while sipping glasses of exotic wines or spirits.
This is Milimani Estate, which has for long been considered the abode for the high and mighty. Each home exudes its own distinct feel, the epitome of a good living.
It is easy to understand the background to the common phrase in the lakeside town that the affluent live while the rest merely exist.
The homes here are attractive with varying modern architectural design, high walls and electric fences to boot. The designs of houses were mainly maisonettes and bungalows until recently when private developers embarked on apartments and town houses.
The roads are smooth and tarmacked and police cars on patrol are common, thanks to the Nyanza Provincial Police Headquarters located in the multi-racial area. The only thing missing are penthouses, which are a hit in Nairobi where they go for over Sh120,000 per month.
Ounga Commercial Agencies director Eric Ounga says several reasons drive the rich to Milimani.
Kisumuâs well-heeled prefer exclusive neighbourhoods from where they can enjoy the reflection of the sunâs rays on the waters of Lake Victoria.
"The ambiance, security and availability of basic infrastructure and social amenities like roads, water, schools, hospital and proximity to the CBD does it," Ounga says.
The Diana Luxury Apartments, which are under construction would be the pace setter of the residential reminiscent of Kilimani, Kileleshwa and Westlands in Nairobi.
The modern three bedroom units are selling at Sh7 million or rented at Sh40,000 per month, a modest amount for the lakeside town.
