Tucked away in the leafy suburbs of Elgon View, Eldoret’s most prestigious neighbourhood, sits a residence that looks straight out of a luxury magazine.
This is the stately home of Swarup Mishra, former Kesses MP and founder of Mediheal Hospital, whose taste for fine living is as bold as the mansion that rises from the soil like a modern-day castle.
From the moment you approach the gates, it’s clear that this isn’t just another house. Guarded by mean-looking security, the wide gate swings open to reveal a perfectly laid cabro-paved driveway, curving gently toward a house that’s all towering pillars, grand glass panes, and geometric symmetry.
The driveway is flanked by neatly trimmed hedges and towering exotic palms that sway gently in the highland breeze.
Mishra’s home’s entrance is nothing short of majestic. Several steps lead up to a heavy, dark-wood front door, ornately designed and framed by a prominent wooden beam.
Lining the staircase are large potted plants: Aloe, Açaí palms, and tall Bambusoideae, adding bursts of green to the home’s commanding presence.
Overhead, a striking chandelier dangles from the ceiling of the entryway, its crystals glittering in the sunlight.
Inside, the opulence deepens as grand foyer opens into a living area bathed in natural light, thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows. The ceilings stretch high above, drawing the eye to yet another chandelier, a cascade of crystals that softly light the room below.
The floors, polished to a mirror-like finish, reflect the golden sheen of the African sun.
Rich mahogany furniture, antique in design, fills the expansive sitting room. Plush sofas circle around intricately carved coffee tables.
The walls are lined with a tasteful mix of African and Asian artwork, adding a worldly touch to the otherwise modern aesthetic.
Mishra’s house’s exterior is painted in soft, light tones, with a glass-panelled balcony overlooking the landscaped garden.
The former Kesses MP and founder of Mediheal Group of Hospitals was suspended as chair of the Kenya BioVax Institute due to investigations into alleged organ trafficking at Mediheal Hospital.
The Ministry of Health has since suspended kidney transplants at Mediheal, and the government is investigating the allegations.
Mediheal has denied any wrongdoing, and insisted it only performs transplants involving patient-provided donors.
Photos by: Peter Ochieng/Standard