By Nelson Musungu, Kericho
A 60-year-old farmer from Kericho County has become Kenya’s newest millionaire after correctly predicting the outcome of 13 football matches in a weekly midweek jackpot competition.
Dennis Kipkoech, a former tea plantation worker who now runs a small farm, placed two bets on the jackpot, each costing just Ksh 99. To his surprise, it was the less calculated ticket that brought him fortune.
“I had taken time to study and think through the first bet, but I only got one prediction right. The second one, which I filled out casually and without pressure, ended up winning,” Kipkoech said.
He walked away with Ksh10, 791,271 and says the timing couldn’t have been better. With a lifelong dream of venturing into dairy farming, Kipkoech plans to relocate to Githunguri, where he intends to purchase dairy cows and land for fodder cultivation.
“This is an opportunity to build something sustainable. I want to buy cows and acquire land to grow food for them and myself,” he shared.
Having spent most of his life in manual labor, the win marks a turning point. “My dream has finally come true. I’ve always wanted to own a farm, but financial constraints held me back. Now I can invest wisely in something I love,” he said.
He also highlighted the financial hardships many Kenyans face. “Even accessing a Ksh 10,000 loan is difficult these days. Most of us are struggling financially, so this win means a lot. I’m truly grateful.”
Despite his windfall, Kipkoech says he’s not done betting. His eyes are now set on the Mega Jackpot, which currently stands at Ksh 421 million.
