Kenyan tycoon John Kimani acquires additional 5.46 million shares in Centum

Omokolade Ajayi -

John Kimani, a prominent Kenyan businessman, has significantly increased his holdings in Centum Investment Company, solidifying his position as one of the leading investors in Kenya.

Kimani’s acquisition of an additional 5.46 million shares, valued at Ksh49.1 million ($336,000), was disclosed in the company’s latest financial statement, marking a significant move in Kenya’s investment landscape.

According to figures disclosed in Centum’s financial report, Kimani’s recent acquisition of 5.46 million shares has raised his ownership in the prominent investment company from 4.39 percent (29,233,921 shares) to 5.21 percent (34,694,985 shares) as of March 2023.

This substantial purchase has positioned John Kimani as Centum’s third-largest shareholder, following the estate of the late entrepreneur Chris Kirubi and the state-owned Kenya Development Corporation, which maintain their stakes at 30.94 percent and 22.97 percent, respectively.

At the time of this report, Centum shares on the Nairobi Stock Exchange were trading at Ksh9 ($0.0614) per share. This trading price confers a market capitalization of Ksh5.95 billion ($40.6 million) upon the company, securing its standing as the 22nd most valuable entity on the local stock exchange.

With a total holding of 34,694,985 shares in Centum, the market value of John Kimani’s stake now stands at Ksh312.25 million ($2.13 million). This strengthens his position as one of the most affluent investors on the Nairobi Securities Exchange.

In addition to his substantial interest in Centum Investment, John Kimani also commands a significant 33.37-percent stake in Kakuzi, an agricultural cultivation and manufacturing firm. Additionally, he maintains a 3.86-percent stake in Nation Media.

John Kimani’s recent acquisition reflects his continued commitment to expanding his investment portfolio in Kenya’s thriving business landscape. His growing influence in Centum Investment Company further solidifies his position as a prominent figure in the country’s financial sector.