Award-winning American singer and chef Kelis Rogers has opened up about the highs and lows of living in Kenya, painting an honest picture of her experience since relocating part of her life to Naivasha.
The “Milkshake” hitmaker, who owns a vast piece of land in the scenic Rift Valley, says life in Kenya has been both grounding and eye-opening, filled with beauty, opportunity, and a few unexpected challenges.
Kelis describes Kenya as one of the most beautiful places she has ever lived. She says the calm atmosphere, breathtaking views of Mount Longonot, and proximity to wildlife make her daily life feel like a dream.
She enjoys the peace and simplicity that comes with living close to nature and often shares glimpses of her lush farm and outdoor lifestyle online.
According to her, the environment offers balance, quiet, rural serenity in Naivasha and vibrant urban life just a few hours away in Nairobi.
She also praises Kenyans for their warmth and friendliness, noting that the sense of community and willingness to help is something she deeply admires.
Another thing she loves is how Kenya allows her to live a more sustainable and purposeful life. The singer turned chef and farmer has embraced organic farming and local food culture, saying it aligns perfectly with her values.
She also appreciates how digital systems like M-Pesa make transactions seamless and how healthcare and services are relatively affordable compared to the U.S. For her children, Kelis believes Kenya provides a safer and more culturally grounded environment, free from some of the racial pressures she experienced back home.
“Oh my goodness. Kenya is everything. Kenya has everything. It is the hub of East Africa for technology and finance and obviously agriculture,” she said
But it hasn’t all been rosy. Kelis admits that some aspects of Kenyan life have taken time to adjust to. She has voiced frustrations over infrastructure problems, pointing out how potholes, unmarked bumps, and poor drainage make driving and traveling difficult.
She has also called out poor waste management and flooding issues during heavy rains, describing them as some of the biggest drawbacks of living in Kenya.
Another challenge, she says, is the high cost of imported goods. Trying to maintain a Western lifestyle, she explains, can get expensive, with imported foods, clothes, and even second-hand cars costing far more than expected.
She also shared her disappointment with Kenya’s car market, saying vehicles are often overpriced and not in the best condition.
In her farming life, Kelis has faced occasional conflicts between wildlife and her crops, forcing her to find ways to protect her land while maintaining harmony with nature.
Despite the hurdles, Kelis remains optimistic and passionate about her new home. She says her move to Kenya is not just about escape but about purpose, building a legacy that combines music, farming, wellness, and community.
For her, the pros outweigh the cons, and she encourages anyone considering a move to Africa to come with an open mind, patience, and respect for local culture.
Kenya, she says, has changed her perspective on life and reminded her of what truly matters: peace, connection, and living with intention.
