After 17 years in Austria, George Odhiambo Oyugi came back to Kenya with just a suitcase full of memories.
The life he had built in Europe fell apart after his divorce.By the time he flew back home to Kisumu County, he was starting from scratch.
Austria was his world for almost twenty years. He had adapted to a different culture, work system and pace of life.But getting back home was tougher than he thought.His experience abroad did not easily fit into Kenya’s job market.
White collar opportunities were scarce, and doors did not open as he had hoped.Broke, uncertain and nursing disappointment, George found himself questioning what next.The turning point came during a visit to a friend in Gem. Away from pressure and noise, he had a vivid dream.
He saw crops falling from the sky, neat pathways, and a flourishing farm.When he woke up, he did something unusual.He grabbed a pen and started sketching the farm he had seen.That sketch became his blueprint.
With limited capital and renewed determination, he entered horticulture.He registered his agribusiness and started working the soil.The early days tested him.Farming required patience, hard work, and resilience.There were moments of doubt when crops failed and markets fluctuated.Still, he pressed on.
Today, his farm is near the shores of Lake Victoria, so he has reliable access to water year-round.What started as a dream has become a steady source of income and purpose. George says losing everything made him rediscover himself.
The corporate path he once imagined is now muddy boots and early mornings in the field. For him, starting over was just the beginning.It marked the start of a more grounded life.