German Embassy Gardener Chooses Chickens as Retirement Gift After 34 Years of Service

German Embassy Gardener Chooses Chickens as Retirement Gift After 34 Years of Service

After 34 years of service, Hesbon Imbwaka, the chief gardener at the German Embassy in Nairobi, finally retired.

But instead of flashy cars or luxury items, he chose something simple — chickens.

German Ambassador to Kenya Sebastian Groth revealed that Imbwaka asked for chickens to start a poultry business after retirement.

“Today was his very last day. I wanted to hand him over the 68 German machines. He opted for some chicken instead to start off a poultry farm. That is the real Luhya spirit,” Groth said.

A Story That Touched Kenyans

News of Imbwaka’s retirement quickly spread across social media earlier this month. Many Kenyans were eager to know what gift he would receive after decades of loyalty.

On August 1, Groth had shared Imbwaka’s farewell, posting a photo of the gardener holding his retirement certificate.

“Today we bid farewell to Bwana Hesbon Imbwaka who retires after 34 years of excellent service for the German Embassy in Nairobi. Goodbye and we will meet soon, Hesbon!” Groth wrote.

However, Kenyans online immediately raised questions. Was a certificate enough reward for such long service?

A Diplomat’s Sense of Humor

Responding to one curious follower, Groth joked that Imbwaka would be rewarded with luxury cars.

“He will get one Mercedes and one BMW for every year in service,” Groth replied humorously.

The post went viral, with many laughing at the ambassador’s light-hearted style. But behind the jokes, a heartfelt story unfolded — Imbwaka’s own request for chickens.

Choosing Dignity Over Luxury

The decision shocked many who had expected something extravagant. Yet for Imbwaka, chickens represented dignity, independence, and a future business to sustain his retirement.

His choice resonated with Kenyans, many of whom praised him for his wisdom. Instead of symbols of wealth, he wanted a chance to build something meaningful.

A Life of Service

Imbwaka joined the German Embassy in the early 1990s. For more than three decades, he maintained its gardens with dedication.

His retirement marked the end of a long journey filled with hard work and quiet service.

The ambassador described him as more than just a staff member — but part of the embassy family.

Groth’s humorous but emotional farewell highlighted a rare bond between employer and employee.

A Legacy Beyond the Embassy

As Imbwaka begins his poultry venture, his story continues to inspire. It is a reminder that true wealth is not in cars or riches, but in purpose and community.

ALSO READ: High Court Declines to Suspend Ruto’s Protest Victims Compensation Panel

German Embassy Gardener Chooses Chickens as Retirement Gift After 34 Years of Service