Meet Patrick Riang’a, Man Behind Car Soko’s Rise and Goliath wa Bungoma’s Breakthrough
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Patrick Riang’a is a Kenyan businessman and former Car Soko Ltd. media personality widely recognised for his rise from humble beginnings to becoming one of the most visible faces in Kenya’s automotive sales industry.
Riang’a is also closely associated with Isaac Otesa, popularly known as Goliath wa Bungoma, a towering online personality who rose to fame after securing a brand ambassador role at Car Soko Ltd., where their collaboration boosted the dealership’s visibility and public engagement.
Born on 30 November 1989 at Nyangeti Village in Nyabitunwa Sub-Location, Kisii County, Riang’a grew up as the fourth born in a family of eight children and the second born son of Fred and Teresa Riang’a.
During his formative years, Riang’a attended several primary schools, including Ogembo Primary and Charkens Academy, where he completed his KCPE with 348 marks out of 500.
He later proceeded to Riokindo Boys, Riyabu Secondary School, and Sameta High School, where he attained a B- in his KCSE in 2010. Although he initially aspired to pursue law, he later redirected his ambition toward journalism.
Also Read: Patrick Resigns From Car Soko, Sends Emotional Message to Goliath wa Bungoma and Felix Limo
Early Passion for Media and Journalism
Inspired in 2002 by broadcaster Jack Oyo Sylvester of KBC, Riang’a developed an early interest in media while still in school.
After completing secondary school, Riang’a briefly engaged in local football commentary before relocating to Nairobi in pursuit of media opportunities.
Upon arrival, he settled in Mukuru kwa Ruben, where he began searching for stable employment.
In 2011, he took up a watchman job at Kendson Security, earning Ksh 3,800 per month. Later, he transitioned to Softa Industries as a cleaner earning Ksh 4,600 per month, before moving to a bread factory job that paid Ksh 200 per day.
Despite persistent effort, the high cost of urban life forced him to return home temporarily.
Everything changed on December 22, 2011, during the John Momanyi Foundation Cup at Sameta Stadium in Kisii.
During the event, David Mochama recorded Riang’a’s football commentary and later shared it with John Kariuki, a Football Kenya Federation media officer.
Impressed by his talent, Kariuki arranged a meeting in Nairobi. With support from Mochama and Geoffrey Ombati Ombui, Riang’a relocated to the capital to pursue the opportunity.
Once in Nairobi, Riang’a met John Kariuki at the Nation Centre, who introduced him to Esther N. Macharia, Head of QFM Radio.
Following this meeting, he secured an opportunity in broadcasting and began work on January 12, 2012, as a trainee at QFM Radio under Nation Media Group.
As his experience grew, he worked alongside seasoned broadcasters such as Emmanuel Igunza and Rashid Abdalla in live commentary and production.
Eventually, he earned confirmation as a full employee and later served as a radio reporter under Easy FM and QFM from July 2013 under editor Robin Njogu.
Academic Progress and Professional Growth
While advancing his media career, Riang’a enrolled at the Kenya Institute of Mass Communication (KIMC) in September 2012 for a Diploma in Journalism.
However, he later stepped away due to work commitments. He then joined Moi University, where he pursued a Bachelor of Science in Communication and Public Relations.
Throughout this journey, he consistently acknowledges the guidance and support of David Mochama, Geoffrey Ombati Ombui, Erick Machokah Moirongo, and Wilfred Andita, who contributed significantly to his career development.
Rise in the Automotive Industry at Car Soko Ltd.
Building on his media experience, Riang’a transitioned into the automotive industry when he joined Car Soko Ltd.
There, he quickly rose through the ranks as a media and sales personality, leveraging his communication skills and digital presence to become one of the most recognisable figures in Kenya’s car sales sector.
In 2025, Car Soko recognised his outstanding performance by ranking him among its top sales professionals.
The dealership awarded him the “Best Car Salesman of the Year 2025” title and presented him with a cheque award in recognition of his contribution to sales growth, brand visibility and overall performance.
Also Read: Goliath wa Bungoma’s 3-Bedroom ‘Bangalaa’: Price, Features and Design
Mentorship and the Rise of Goliath wa Bungoma
Beyond his corporate role, Riang’a played a key part in introducing Isaac Otesa, popularly known as Goliath wa Bungoma, to Car Soko Ltd., where he later emerged as a brand ambassador.
Together, they strengthened the dealership’s marketing reach through viral campaigns and strong public engagement.
In addition, he supported what became known as the “Bangala House Project,” overseeing the construction of Goliath’s permanent three-bedroom home, which significantly improved his living conditions.
A post shared on X by user Kijana ya Misa praised Riang’a’s influence, mentorship and also congratulated him.
“This is a genuine example of kindness, leadership and selfless service to others. Congratulations, Patrick Riang’a, respect, true leader!,” he said.
Following his departure from Car Soko, Riang’a publicly wished Goliath continued success and expressed confidence in his role as a brand ambassador.
Resignation from Car Soko Ltd.
On July 1, 2026, Riang’a officially announced his resignation from Car Soko Ltd., marking the end of a significant chapter in his career.
“Today 1st July, 2026 marks the end of me working for Car Soko Ltd. A very good workplace that I have called home for so many years. I will forever miss this place,” he stated.
“Tomorrow, I will officially unveil my new workplace. Thank you and God Bless You all,” he stated further.
Expressing gratitude, Riang’a acknowledged Car Soko founder Felix Limo for his leadership and mentorship.
“Sir Felix Limo, God Bless You so much. I want to take this opportunity to thank you for the opportunity accorded me and the immense support you have always extended to me. If I am asked to write about you, I will need several days, maybe weeks, to put together some of your acts of kindness and generosity to me and all my other colleagues at Car Soko,” he said.
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Patrick Riang’a and Goliath wa Bungoma at Car Soko Ltd. PHOTO/ Patrick Riang’a FB