Africa’s fastest man, Ferdinand Omanyala, has opened up about his financial strategy after completing his Ksh 50 million seven-bedroom mansion in Ruiru, revealing why he prefers government bonds over the traditional Kenyan investment in land.
Fresh off the completion of his new home, the sprint sensation shared that liquidity, not just asset ownership, drives his financial decisions.
While many Kenyan athletes channel their earnings into land purchases, Omanyala has taken a different route.
Omanyala admits that his investment choices are deeply personal and shaped by his past struggles.
“My biggest fear is getting back to where I came from,” he told Nation
That fear, he explains, pushes him to prioritise financial security and accessible cash flow.
Unlike land, which can take months or even years to sell, government bonds provide steady returns and can be converted into cash more easily when needed.
Also Read: Planned Power Outages to Hit Parts of Nairobi, Kajiado and Kericho This Monday
The sprinter pointed out that land may make someone “asset rich,” but it remains largely illiquid in emergencies.
The Commonwealth champion has built a portfolio centered on Treasury and Infrastructure bonds, ensuring consistent passive income while protecting his capital.
“I believe in the liquidity of money,” Omanyala explained. “I know it’s a Kenyan thing to buy land, but if you have an emergency, you can’t sell a plot in a day.”
With his primary residence secured, Omanyala says his financial focus has shifted toward wealth preservation and long-term growth through reliable financial instruments.
Beyond athletics, Omanyala is planning for life after retirement.
Also Read: More Kenyans Stranded in Russian Army as Calls for Govt Rescue Intensify
Through endorsement deals with brands such as Toyota, Visa, and Absa, alongside his investments in government securities, he is building a diversified income stream.
“When I retire, I want options,” added the police officer, who has not ruled out taking up a role as a sprints coach.
His transparency offers a powerful lesson for young athletes: success on the track must be matched with smart financial planning off it.
Follow our WhatsApp channel for instant news updates

Omanyala during the launch of his Sprinter School Club at Merishaw Highschool
PHOTO/ACC/FB