KENYA: KQ Pilot Saves 95 Passengers Flying From Mombasa ToNairobi

A Kenya Airways pilot on Monday saved 95 passengers and 5 crew members who were headed to Nairobi from Mombasa.

The captain was forced to take precautionary measures after the aircraft's warning system raised a false mechanical alarm.

The flight KQ605 departed Mombasa at 1754 hours and was airborne at 1807hours. However, it was forced to land back in Mombasa at 1834hours.

In a press statement by Kenya Airways, engineers declared the aircraft grounded after they assessed it.

Other passengers with connections beyond Nairobi have been given accommodation in Mombasa to travel tomorrow to their final destinations, part of the statement read.

The airline apologized for the inconvenience and further advised its clients to contact customer care for any queries.

In yet another incident that occurred on March 28, 2019, the pilot of a Kisumu-bound plane saved the lives of over 70 passengers after the plane was unable to land at the Kisumu International Airport.

Upon reaching Kisumu, the pilot observed that the weather conditions were not optimal for landing.

After circling above Lake Victoria for some time to wait for the weather to clear up, he decided to fly back to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.


Tourism Observer

KENYA: Kenya Airways Halts Flight From Nairobi To Mombasa Because Of A Bird Strike

A Kenya Airways flight heading to Mombasa was on Friday morning forced to make an about turn after a bird strike caused an engine glitch.

According to the airline, flight KQ604 departing from Nairobi to Mombasa at 10.15 am encountered a bird strike.

This was two minutes after take-off and as a standard precautionary measure, the pilot decided to turn back, landing safely at 10.27 am.

We are glad to report that all the 87 passengers and five crew on board are safe, the airline said.

The passengers have been redistributed to KQ 608 and 616 which have been upgraded to Boeing787.

Kenya Airways has apologised to affected passengers adding that engineers are currently assessing the damage on the affected left engine of the Embraer E190.

A bird strike - bird ingestion - is a collision between an aircraft. It is considered a significant threat to flight safety.

Although there is no absolute figure on the number of accidents caused by bird strikes, a report by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) shows 1300 of such cases are reported annually in US alone.


Tourism Observer

KENYA: Silverstone Air Services To Commence Nairobi, Mombasa Flights

Silverstone Air Services is to start flights between Nairobi and Mombasa next month, targeting tourists on the coastal circuit.

The airline last October launched commercial flights from Nairobi to Kisumu and Ukunda having previously operated as a charter-only carrier.

Silverstone Air sales manager Patrick Oketch on Tuesday said the airline will be charging about Sh4,500 for a start for a one-way ticket between Nairobi-Mombasa.

We are planning to introduce direct flights from Wilson Airport in Nairobi to Mombasa by next month, said Mr Oketch in an interview.

The departure time from Wilson Airport to Mombasa will be 10am while departure time from Mombasa to Nairobi will be 11:30am.

There will also be a second flight leaving Wilson Airport at 5:00pm to Mombasa from Nairobi daily, he said.

Silverstone Air has been expanding barely six months since it established its operations in the Kenyan market.

The low-cost carrier’s passenger flights target tourists from the Western and Coastal regions, charging between Sh4,500-Sh10,000 for a one-way ticket between Kisumu and Mombasa.

In April, the local airline increased frequency on the Nairobi-Kisumu route to 17 trips per week, up from 14, while passengers travelling to Mombasa from Kisumu are now served by three weekly flights, an increase from two.

Traders in Mombasa and Kisumu will soon have more transport options for their goods after Silverstone Air Services announced it will launch air cargo transportation between the counties.

Silverstone Air Services, which started operating direct passenger flights between the two cities in February, says the new cargo route will boost trade between the devolved units.

We will start cargo transportation and we are slightly cheaper. We will do all cargo and parcels apart from non-dangerous goods.

For body transportation we will charge Sh40,000 only. Traders dealing with fish from the two counties who have been urging us to start transporting their commodities can now breathe a sigh of relief, the airline's sales manager Patrick Oketch said Monday.

Silverstone Air Services is a fairly new entrant into the local aviation scene and has been on an expansion trail barely six months since setting up in Kenya.

The low cost carrier's passenger flights target tourists from the Western and Coastal regions and is charging about Sh10,500 for a one-way ticket between Kisumu and Mombasa.

It operates twice a week, every Friday and Sunday.

Since its inception in October 2017, the company has employed about 186 staff.

The airline’s chief executive officer, Mohamed Somow, says the company will soon expand to operate more routes across the country.

Mombasa deputy governor William Kingi urged traders to use the airline to transport fresh tilapia consumed in Mombasa, usually transported to the port city by road.

In recent times, local fish traders have faced stiff competition from Chinese imports flooding the Kenyan market.

With Kisumu’s strategic position on Lake Victoria and on the fringes of the Great Lakes Region, a direct link to Mombasa is a big boon for both cities.

Can we explore Mombasa port to expand the market for Nyanza's fresh fish? Silverstone air services will soon fly our sea fish to Nyanza, the deputy governor said.

Meanwhile, players in the aviation industry have urged the national government to allocate more funds to upgrading existing airstrips and international airports to support the sector.


Tourism Observer

KENYA: Kenya Airways Cuts Baggage Allowance,Seeks Exemption From Competition Regulations

Kenya Airways is seeking exemption from competition rules in its joint venture deal with Tanzania’s national carrier Precision Air.

KQ, which has a 41.23 stake in Precision Air wants regulatory approval to discuss revenue sharing, price setting, route schedules, sales and marketing on the two airline’s joint venture routes in Kenya and Tanzania.

The two carriers already have a code-sharing agreement that allows airlines to sell seats on each other’s planes on the Nairobi-Dar es Salaam route.

They have now applied to be exempted from competition regulations until April 2022.

In the joint venture agreement, the parties intend to align and coordinate reciprocal code sharing on the joint venture routes, said Competition Authority of Kenya director-general Wang’ombe Kariuki in a notice.

The routes in discussion are Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu, Dar-es-salaam, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar.

The parties intend to align and coordinate network management activities with respect to the Joint Venture including terms of routes, schedules, capacity and designation, pricing of ticket fares on the joint venture routes says Mr Wang’ombe.

The two airlines are also seeking exemption of competition rules in the management of any and all revenues attributable to the performance of the joint venture by any party.

These including without limit, setting up joint venues management systems and joint venue analysis systems, and joint marketing and sales activities with respect to joint venture.

Although competition laws forbid collusion to set prices, the law also allows companies to apply for exemptions. The Competition Authority gave the public 30 days to submit opinions on the proposal.

Meanwhile, Kenya Airways reduced baggage allowance on its intra-Africa routes to one bag, making it more expensive to fly with additional baggage.

The airline previously allowed users flying in Economy Class from one African country to another two bags of a maximum weight of 23 kilogrammes.

Flyers will now be allowed to have only one bag, with charges applicable for extra bags.

Baggage charges are a popular revenue makers for airlines.

Kenya Airways will implement a new baggage policy that will entitle its guests to 20 per cent discount on any extra bag purchases up to 24 hours to departure.

In addition to reduced extra baggage, fees within intra-Africa flights, guests will be entitled to one free bag in the Economy Class cabin at a maximum weight of 23 kilogrammes per passenger, Kenya Airways says.

The carrier however said the intra-Africa one bag allowance will not apply to passengers travelling to and from other continents, while Business Class passengers will maintain their allowance of two free bags at 32 kilogrammes maximum weight per bag.

Charges added onto the actual cost of a ticket have become a way for carriers to make additional income while keeping the cost of tickets low.

The carriers charge Economy Class passengers fees for baggage, legroom and seat selection.

The new baggage policy is part of Kenya Airways’ strategy to provide simplified and discounted competitive prices for passengers who book their extra baggage, any time before 24 hours to departure while enhancing customer service for our guests, says Kenya Airways Group Managing Director and CEO Sebastian Mikosz.


Tourism Observer

KENYA: Ethiopian Airlines To Fly Twice Daily To Mombasa, Plans To Order 13 Additional Boeing 787 Jets And 6 More Airbus A350s

Ethiopian Airlines has been allowed more flights on the Mombasa route in an agreement between President Uhuru Kenyatta and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali.

The airline will now fly to Mombasa twice a day as Ethiopia and Kenya seek to deepen their trade ties.

The Kenyan side agreed to grant Ethiopian Airlines a second frequency flight to Mombasa, said a joint communique from State House after Mr Kenyatta met Dr Ali in Nairobi.

The extra flight given to Ethiopian Airlines will be a boost to coastal tourism which has been heavily dependent on charter flights from Europe.

Only two regional airlines, Ethiopian Airlines and RwandAir operate scheduled flights to Mombasa from Addis Ababa and Kigali respectively.

Turkish Airlines is the only one from Europe operating scheduled flights between Istanbul and Mombasa.

Government owned Ethiopian Airlines is ahead of other African airlines like Kenya Airways and South African Airways to become Africa’s largest airline by revenue and profit.

Its plan was to more than double its fleet to 120 and become Africa’s biggest airline by 2025,

Ethiopian Airlines has more than 100 aircrafts flying to various destinations in Africa, Asia to South America, and four US cities.

Kenya Airways plans its first direct flight to the US in October.

Hoteliers at the Coast have been lobbying for more international direct flights to Mombasa to ease air transport through Moi International Airport and attract more tourists.

As of now tourists visiting Kenya using other airlines must first land at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport before connecting to Mombasa.

Ethiopian Airlines’ recent growth has been supersonic that it revised the ambitious 15-year strategy set in 2010 and plans to buy more planes to step up its expansion.

Its plan had been to more than double its fleet to 120 and become Africa’s biggest airline by 2025, but it already has 100 planes flying to dozens of destinations from Africa, Europe, Asia to South America, including four US cities.

The State-owned carrier has also outpaced regional competitors Kenya Airways and South African Airways to become Africa’s largest airline by revenue and profit, according to the International Air Transport Association.

We have expanded more than we planned, said Chief Executive Tewolde Gebremariam. We had to revise the objective to make it 150 airplanes or more by 2025.

It now plans to place orders this year for 13 additional Boeing 787 jets and six more Airbus A350s, he said.

The airline has come a long way from when it was established in 1945 as a joint venture with now-defunct U.S. carrier Trans World Airlines (TWA).

In its 2016/17 financial year Ethiopian Airlines generated $2.7 billion in revenue, Tewolde said, up more than 11 percent from the previous year.

Passenger numbers climbed by more than 18 percent to 9 million while net profit was $233 million, up from a little more than $220 million.

In 2013 Ethiopian Airlines acquired a minority stake in Malawi Airlines to serve as a base for its southern Africa operations.

That kicked off a series of deals including January’s agreement with Zambia’s government to relaunch that country’s national carrier, shut down more than two decades ago.

The strategy is aimed at gaining a competitive advantage against rivals such as those in the Gulf, Tewolde said.

With Africa’s aviation industry still hampered by government protectionism and high taxes, Tewolde said that setting up or taking stakes in small carriers is a way around the restrictions.

Ethiopian Airlines aims to create a new airline in Mozambique that it will fully own, he said, adding that it is also in talks with Chad, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea and Guinea to set up carriers through joint ventures.

Going forward, it will be difficult for us to compete with only one hub in Addis Ababa.

Although it isn’t all clear skies for the fast-growing carrier.

The economic downturn in Africa caused by the collapse of oil prices in 2014 has indirectly hit the continent’s airlines, and Ethiopian is unable to repatriate more than $145 million in profits from Angola, Sudan and Zimbabwe because of foreign exchange shortages, Tewolde said.

Running a business needs cash flow, he said. Here in Africa, we have a huge problem with this, Tewolde Gebremariam says.


Tourism Observer

AFRICA: Kanga, An African Garment That Speaks And Carries A Message

The kanga, is a colourful fabric similar to kitenge, but lighter, worn by women and occasionally by men throughout the African Great Lakes region.

It is a piece of printed cotton fabric, about 1.5 m by 1 m, often with a border along all four sides called pindo in Swahili, and a central part (mji) which differs in design from the borders.

They are sold in pairs, which can then be cut and hemmed to be used as a set.

Whereas kitenge is a more formal fabric used for nice clothing, the kanga is much more than a clothing piece, it can be used as a skirt, head-wrap, apron, pot-holder, towel, and much more.

The kanga is culturally significant on Eastern coast of Africa, often given as a gift for birthdays or other special occasions.

They are given to mourning families in Tanzania after the loss of a family member as part of a michengo or collection, contribution or condolence into which many community members put a bit of money to support the family in their grief.

Kangas are also similar to Kishutu and Kikoy which are traditionally worn by men.

The Kishutu is one of the earliest known designs, probably named after a town in Tanzania, they are particular given to young brides as part of their dowry or by healers to cast off evil spirits.

Due to its ritual function they do not always include a proverb.

The earliest pattern of the kanga was patterned with small dots or speckles, which look like the plumage of the guinea fowl, also called kanga in Swahili.

This is where the name comes from, contrary to the belief that it comes from a Swahili verb for to close.

Kangas have been a traditional type of dress amongst women in East Africa since the 19th century.

It was developed from a type of unbleached cotton cloth. The cloth was known as merikani in Zanzibar, a Swahili noun derived from the adjective American, indicative of the place it originated.

Male slaves wrapped it around their waist and female slaves wrapped it under their armpits.

To make the cloth more feminine, slave women occasionally dyed them black or dark blue, using locally obtained indigo.

This dyed merikani was referred to as kaniki. People despised kaniki due to its association with slavery.

Ex-slave women seeking to become part of the Swahili society began to decorate their merikani clothes.

They did this using one of three techniques; a form of resist dying, a form of block printing or hand painting.

After slavery was abolished in 1897, Kangas began to be used for self-empowerment and to indicate that the wearer had personal wealth.

According to other sources, the origin is in the kerchief squares called lencos brought by Portuguese traders from India and Arabia.

Stylish ladies in Zanzibar and Mombasa, started to use them stitching together six kerchiefs in a 3X2 pattern to create one large rectangular wrap.

Soon they became popular in the whole coastal region, later expanding inland to the Great Lakes region. They are still known as lesos or lessos in some localities, after the Portuguese word.

Until the mid-twentieth century, they were mostly designed and printed in India, the Far East and Europe.

Since the 1950s kangas started to be printed also in the city of Morogoro in Tanzania by MeTL Group Textile Company and Kenya by Rivatex and Thika Cloth Mills Ltd are some of the largest manufacturers in Kenya and other countries on the African continent.

In the early 1900s, proverbs, sayings, aphorisms and slogans were added to kanga's. A trader in Mombasa, Kaderdina Hajee Essak, also known as Abdulla, began to distinguish his kangas with the mark"K.H.E. - Mali ya Abdulla, to which he often added a proverb in Swahili.

Initially they were printed in Arabic script, and later in Roman letters. Towards the eastern part of the region, phrases in Kiswahili are traditional, while in central areas phrases in both Kiswahili and Lingala are popular.

One distinguishing feature of kanga's is that they always bear a saying in Kiswahili.

Description and appearance of the Kanga

- Generally Kangas are 150 cm wide by 110 cm long.

- They are rectangular and always have a border along all four sides.

- Often kangas have a central symbol.

- All kangas bear a saying in Kiswahili.

There are many different ways to wear kangas. One traditional way of wearing the kanga is to wrap one piece as a shawl, to cover the head and shoulders, and another piece wrapped around the waist.

Kangas are also used as baby carriers.

Typically, kangas consist of three parts:

- The pindo or wide border

- Mji the central motif

- Ujumbe or jina written in Kiswahili, is featured on a strip which contains a message. It is less commonly written in Arabic or Comorian.

Other countries which produce their own Kangas write the Kanga messages/names in their main languages: in Madagascar (Malagasy Republic) where they are known as lambas, they feature ohabolana, traditional proverbs written in Malagas.

They are also produced in Zambia and Malawi. This message is called the jina or name of the kanga. Messages are often in the form of riddles or proverbs.

When giving a kanga as a gift, one must be mindful of the proverb written thereon, as they can be somewhat insulting. The proverb must be relevant to the occasion.

Occasionally, one of these is given as a gift at a wedding to express a person's opinion that the couple shouldn't be married! However, most of the messages express kind sentiments and good wishes.

Some examples of proverbs written on Kangas:

- Majivuno hayafai: There is no value in showing off

- Mkipendana mambo huwa sawa: Everything is all right if you love each other

- Japo sipati tamaa sikati: Even though I have nothing, I have not given up my desire to get what I want

- Wazazi ni dhahabu kuwatunza ni thawabu: Parents are gold; to take care of them is a blessing

- Sisi sote abiria dereva ni Mungu: We are all passengers, God is the driver

- Fimbo La Mnyonge Halina Nguvu: The feeble punishers blow, is weak.

- Mwanamke mazingira tunataka, usawa, amani, maendelo: We women want equality, peace, and progress

- Naogopa simba na meno yake siogopi mtu kwa maneno yake: I’m afraid of a lion with its strong teeth but not a man with his words.

- Leo ni siku ya shangwe na vigelegele: Today is a day for celebrations and ululations.

Buy yourself a Kanga now!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (English)

Jenunuliye Kanga sasa hivi!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! In Kiswahili

KENYA: Taxify Expands To Mombasa

Taxify has launched its new high-capacity taxi service that accommodates up to six passengers in the coastal town of Mombasa, a week after unveiling it in Nairobi.

The base fare for the service dubbed TaxifyXL is set at Sh100 with each kilometre and minute priced at Sh45 and Sh5, respectively, rates that are pricier compared to Nairobi.

In Nairobi, the TaxifyXL base fare is set at Sh100 with each kilometre and minute priced at Sh40 and Sh4 respectively.

The minimum fare for the TaxifyXL in both cities is set at Sh250.

Mombasa is Kenya’s tourism hub and taxi hailing apps are popular with international travellers who may have used the service in other cities across the world.

The firm said, during launch, that the XL service would cater for a more diverse customer base like includes groups requiring larger capacity vehicles.

We have recognized that as our customer base expands people are now moving to a point where they want vehicles that can carry more than four passengers at a go, said Taxify head of Kenya operations Chisom Anoke.

Taxify has launched a motorbike hailing service as it moves to tap into the mode of transportation popular for its convenience in Nairobi.

The new Taxify Boda service has a minimum fare of Sh50 per trip.

For longer journeys, users will be required to pay Sh30 base fare, Sh15 per kilometre and Sh3 per minute.

Taxify Kenya Operations Manager, Chisom Anoke, said that the firm had developed the new service in response to a growing demand for safe, organised and reliable motorbike services.

Rising use of motorcycle riders for public passenger transport is a reality that we have to live with particularly in Nairobi where traffic jams and clogged roads delay movement.

Mr Anoke said that by providing a smartphone application linking passengers to motorcycle riders, Taxify Boda is contributing to the overall structuring of the informal transport economy, estimated to already ferry at least 10,000 people daily in Nairobi alone.

We want to help the motorcycle drivers formalise their businesses by providing them with a platform to track trips, earnings and even plan for personal development initiatives such a saving with a sacco.

Since they are already trying to establish formal groupings, Taxify Boda will greatly raise their operational focus and even eventually make it easier for them to afford to purchase new motor cycles, Mr Anoke said.


Tourism Observer

KENYA: No Shorts Or Bikinis Entertained As Tourists Rush To Lamu For Easter Holiday,

Lamu is experiencing a boom in both domestic and international guests who are flocking the Archipelago for the four-day Easter Holiday.

Lamu County Executive for Tourism, Trade and Industrialisation Dismas Mwasambu says they have recorded a 20 percent increase in the number of tourist bookings in hotels.

Mr Mwasambu says local tourists from Nairobi, Mombasa, Kilifi, Watamu and Malindi have been flocking the region since the beginning of the week.

The number of international bookings were minimal and attributed the situation to the security status of the region.

Mr Mwasambu thanked the National Government for making Lamu safe again, but insisted on increased patrols during Easter.

We are set for the Easter holiday. Guests, mostly domestic, have arrived while others are on the way. This year’s Easter holiday has shown positive signs in as far as tourism response is concerned, he said.

Meanwhile, security has been beefed up across Lamu County as visitors stream in.

Lamu County Police Commander Muchangi Kioi said security officers have been deployed on Lamu Island, Shella, Manda and the border areas of Lamu and Somalia.

The commander said police patrols have also been enhanced, especially on the Lamu-Garsen route.

He also promised a 24-hour security system in all locations and public places.

I am assuring both the locals and tourists of adequate security measures before, during and even after the Easter celebrations.

We have enough police officers who have already been posted all over the county, on our roads and the far places of Kiunga and Ishakani border of Lamu and Somalia to ensure the Easter period progresses smoothly and peacefully. There is no cause for alarm, Mr Kioi insisted.

He urged locals to be vigilant and report any suspicious individual or activity.

The county security boss also appealed to the public to cooperate with security officials to ensure safety and peace.

Lamu or Lamu Town is a small town on Lamu Island, which in turn is a part of the Lamu Archipelago in Kenya.

Situated 341 kilometres (212 mi) by road northeast of Mombasa that ends at Mokowe Jetty from where the sea channel has to be crossed to reach Lamu Island.

It is the headquarters of Lamu County and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Lamu is Kenya's oldest continually inhabited town, and was one of the original Swahili settlements along coastal East Africa, founded in 1370.

The town contains the Lamu Fort on the seafront, which commenced construction under Fumo Madi ibn Abi Bakr, the sultan of Pate, and was completed after his death in the early 1820s.

Lamu is also home to 23 mosques, including the Riyadha Mosque, built in 1900, and a donkey sanctuary.

Lamu Town on Lamu Island is Kenya's oldest continually inhabited town, and was one of the original Swahili settlements along coastal East Africa. It is believed to have been established in 1370.

Today, the majority of Lamu's population is Muslim.

The town was first attested in writing by an Arab traveller Abu-al-Mahasini, who met a judge from Lamu visiting Mecca in 1441.

In 1505, the Portuguese invaded Lamu, forcing the king of the town to quickly concede to paying protection money to them.

The Portuguese invasion was prompted by the nation's successful mission to control trade along the coast of the Indian Ocean.

For a considerable time, Portugal had a monopoly on shipping along the East African coast and imposed export taxes on pre-existing local channels of commerce.

In the 1580s, prompted by Turkish raids, Lamu led a rebellion against the Portuguese. In 1652, Oman assisted Lamu to resist Portuguese control.

Lamu's years as an Omani protectorate during the period from the late 17th century to early 19th century mark the town's golden age.

Lamu was governed as a republic under a council of elders known as the Yumbe who ruled from a palace in the town, little exists of the palace today other than a ruined plot of land.

During this period, Lamu became a center of poetry, politics, arts and crafts as well as trade. Many of the buildings of the town were constructed during this period in a distinct classical style.

Aside from its thriving arts and crafts trading, Lamu became a literary and scholastic centre.

Woman writers such as the poet Mwana Kupona famed for her Advice on the Wifely Duty had a higher status in Lamu than was the convention in Kenya at the time.

In 1812, a coalition Pate-Mazrui army invaded the archipelago during the Battle of Shela. They landed at Shela with the intention of capturing Lamu and completing the fort which had begun to be constructed,.

They were violently suppressed by the locals in their boats on the beach as they tried to flee. In fear of future attacks, Lamu appealed to the Omanis for a Busaidi garrison to operate at the new fort and help protect the area from Mazrui rebels along the Kenyan coast.

In the middle of the 19th century, Lamu came under the political influence of the sultan of Zanzibar. The Germans claimed Wituland in June 1885.

The Germans considered Lamu to be of strategical importance and an ideal place for a base. From 22 November 1888 to 3 March 1891, there was a German post office in Lamu to facilitate communication within the German protectorate in the sultanate.

It was the first post office to be established on the East African coast; today there is a museum in Lamu dedicated to it: the German Post Office Museum.

In 1890, Lamu and Kenya fell under British colonial rule. Kenya gained political independence in 1963, although the influence of the Kenyan central government has remained low, and Lamu continues to enjoy some degree of local autonomy.

In a 2010 report titled Saving Our Vanishing Heritage, Global Heritage Fund identified Lamu as one of 12 worldwide sites most On the Verge of irreparable loss and damage, citing insufficient management and development pressure as primary causes.

While the terror group Al Shabaab kidnappings placed Lamu off-limits since September 2011, by early 2012 the island was considered safe.

On 4 April 2012, the US Department of State lifted its Lamu travel restriction. However, two attacks in the vicinity of Lamu in July 2014, for which Al Shabaab claimed responsibility, led to the deaths of 29 people.

Lamu's economy was based on slave trade until abolition in the year 1907. Other traditional exports included ivory, mangrove, turtle shells and rhinoceros horn, which were shipped via the Indian Ocean to the Middle East and India.

In addition to the abolition of slavery, construction of the Uganda Railroad in 1901 which started from the competing port of Mombasa significantly hampered Lamu's economy.

Tourism has gradually refuelled the local economy in recent times, and it is a popular destination for backpackers. Many of the locals are involved in giving trips on dhows to tourists.

Harambee Avenue is noted for its cuisine, and has a range of stores including the halwa shop selling sweet treats and miniature mutton kebabs and cakes are sold at night.

Coconut, mango and grapefruit and seafood such as crab and lobster are common ingredients. The town contains a central market, the Gallery Baraka and Shumi's Designs shop, and the Mwalimu Books store.

The oldest hotel in the town, Petley's Inn, is situated on the waterfront. Other hotels include the American-restored Amu House, the 20-room Bahari Hotel, Doda Villas, the Swedish-owned Jannat House.

3-storey 23-room Lamu Palace Hotel, Petley's Inn, the 13-room Stone House Hotel, which was converted from an 18th-century house, and the 18-room Sunsail Hotel, a former trader's house on the waterfront with high ceilings.

Mangroves are harvested for building poles, and Lamu has a sizeable artisan community, including carpenters who are involving in boat building and making ornate doors and furniture.

The town is served by Lamu District Hospital to the south of the main centre, operated by the Ministry of Health. It was established in the 1980s, and is one of the best-equipped hospitals on the Kenyan coast.

China has begun feasibility studies to transform Lamu into the largest port in East Africa, as part of their String of Pearls strategy.

The town was founded in the 14th century and it contains many fine examples of Swahili architecture. The old city is inscribed on the World Heritage List as the oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa.

Once a center for the slave trade, the population of Lamu is ethnically diverse. Lamu was on the main Arabian trading routes, and as a result, the population is largely Muslim.

From respect to the Muslim inhabitants, tourists in town are expected to wear more than shorts or bikinis.

There are several museums, including the Lamu Museum, home to the island's ceremonial horn called siwa.

Other museums are dedicated to Swahili culture and to the local postal service. Notable buildings in Lamu town include:

Lamu Fort is a fort in the town. Fumo Madi ibn Abi Bakr, the sultan of Pate, started to build the fort on the seafront, to protect members of his unpopular government.

He died in 1809, before the first storey of the fort was completed. The fort was completed by the early 1820s.

Riyadha Mosque, Habib Salih, a Sharif with family connections to the Hadramaut, Yemen, settled on Lamu in the 1880s, and became a highly respected religious teacher.

Habib Salih had great success gathering students around him, and in 1900 the Riyadha Mosque was built. He introduced Habshi Maulidi, where his students sang verse passages accompanied by tambourines.

After his death in 1935 his sons continued the madrassa, which became one of the most prestigious centres for Islamic studies in East Africa.

The Mosque is the centre for the Maulidi Festival, which are held every year during the last week of the month of the Prophet's birth. During this festival, pilgrims from Sudan, Congo, Uganda, Zanzibar and Tanzania join the locals to sing the praise of Mohammad. Mnarani Mosque is also of note.

Donkey sanctuary, Since the island has no motorised vehicles, transportation and other heavy work is done with the help of donkeys. There are some 3000 donkeys on the island.

Dr. Elisabeth Svendsen of The Donkey Sanctuary in England first visited Lamu in 1985. Worried by the conditions for the donkeys, the Sanctuary was opened in 1987. The Sanctuary provides treatment to all donkeys free of charge.

Lamu is home to the Maulidi Festival, held in January or February, which celebrates Mohammed's birth. It features a range of activities from donkey races to dhow-sailing events and swimming competitions.

The Lamu Cultural Festival, a colourful carnival, is usually held in the last week of August, which since 2000 has featured traditional dancing, crafts including kofia embroidery, and dhow races.

The Donkey Awards, with prizes given to the finest donkeys, are given in March/April. Women's music in the town is also of note and they perform the chakacha, a wedding dance. Men perform the hanzua a sword dance and wear kanzus.

Lamu Old Town was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2001, based on 3 criteria:

The architecture and urban structure of Lamu graphically demonstrate the cultural influences that have come together there over several hundred years from Europe, Arabia, and India, utilising traditional Swahili techniques to produce a distinct culture.

The growth and decline of the seaports on the East African coast and interaction between the Bantu, Arabs, Persians, Indians, and Europeans represents a significant cultural and economic phase in the history of the region which finds its most outstanding expression in Lamu Old Town.

Its paramount trading role and its attraction for scholars and teachers gave Lamu an important religious function in the region, which it maintains to this day.

In 2011, proposals were being advanced to build a deep-water port which would have much greater capacity in terms of depth of water, number of berths, and ability for vessels to arrive and depart at the same time than the country's main port at Mombasa.

The song Lamu by Christian singer Michael W. Smith is inspired by the island. In the song, Smith refers to Lamu as an island hideaway the place we soon will be a rebirth from life's demise where the world is still.

The song is about running away from life's problems.

Lamu is the setting of Anthony Doerr's short story - The Shell Collector - from his collection of stories by the same name.


Tourism Observer

KENYA: X mass Holidays Attract More Travellers For Jambojet

Budget airline Jambojet has introduced additional flights to the coastal cities as it seeks to cash in on the high demand from holidaymakers.

The airline’s CEO Willem Hondius said there has been increased demand for air travel between Nairobi and the Coast forcing the company to increase frequency starting Tuesday (Dec 19).

Jambojet is now operating three flights to Malindi and Ukunda and four to Mombasa per week.

Yes we have added flights to Malindi (3 per week), Mombasa (4 per week), Ukunda (3 per week plus a third frequency per day between December 19 and 31),said Mr Hondius.

Mr Hondius said all routes that the airline plies have registered high demand. During the festive season we see demand going up sharply and there is always need to add flights,he said.

Last week the airline received one of two planes it purchased last month at Sh6.6 billion to cater for increased demand this Christmas season.

The addition brings Jambojet’s fleet to six – two Q400 planes that it acquired earlier in the year and two Boeing 737s leased from Kenya Airways KQ its parent company.

The airline said the remaining plane will arrive later this month. The two planes have been acquired from Danish firm Nordic Aviation Capital.

The cost of booking air tickets has significantly gone up as more passengers seek to travel by air. Those who have been booking from last week are paying almost double the price compared with travellers who booked in November.

It’s still quite last minute unfortunately. However for the festive season people tend to book a bit earlier, said the CEO.

The airline in May got regulatory approval to fly to 16 regional routes, including Entebbe, Addis Ababa, Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Kilimanjaro, Mwanza, Kigali, Juba, Bujumbura, Hargeisa, Mogadishu, Goma, Kisangani and Moroni.

Meanwhile, Jambojet is set to start flights to Tanzania and Uganda by February next year, kicking off its regional expansion plan designed to see the low-cost carrier fly to 16 new routes.

The Transport ministry said it had applied for permission for the budget airline, a subsidiary of Kenya Airways is to fly to the countries.

Jambojet was in May granted regulatory approval to fly to 16 routes including Entebbe, Addis Ababa, Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Kilimanjaro, Mwanza, Kigali, Juba, Bujumbura, Hargeisa, Mogadishu, Goma, Kisangani and Moroni.

The government has applied for designations on our behalf to allow us operate on six regional routes, Willem Hondius, Jambojet’s chief executive said.

For now, the application covers Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, Ethiopia and Democratic Republic of Congo. However, we intend to begin by flying to Tanzania and Uganda.

Jambojet also plans to start flying to Wajir by next February, adding to its existing flights between Nairobi and Mombasa, Eldoret, Kisumu, Lamu, Malindi and Ukunda (Diani).

The airline had earlier said it would make its international debut by the end of this year, but delays in receiving two Bombardier Q400 aircraft has seen them push their launch date forward.

These two planes are now expected before Christmas.

The extended electioneering period took a toll on the business, with total bookings for the four months to October dipping by around 16 per cent, Mr Hondius revealed.

The airline flies between 45,000 and 50,000 passengers per month.

In the weeks around the two general elections, he added, passenger numbers dropped by a quarter, highlighting the huge toll that the process had on Kenya’s aviation sector.

Kenya Airways’ latest annual report indicates that Jambojet reported a pre-tax loss of Sh25 million for the year to March, reversing a pre-tax profit of Sh126 million recorded the previous year.

The loss was attributable to last year’s peak season when insufficient aircraft messed us up. The elections affected us negatively this year. While business has rebounded, we shall assess the full impact with time, said Mr Hondius.

Jambojet is set to receive two new aircraft worth Sh6.6 billion before Christmas in anticipation of the high-season passenger demand and as the low-cost carrier prepares to start international flights.

The airline, a subsidiary of national carrier Kenya Airways is set to receive the first of two Bombardier Q400 on December 11. The second one is expected to touch down in Nairobi six days later.

Jambojet was in May granted regulatory approval to fly to 16 routes including Entebbe, Addis Ababa, Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Kilimanjaro, Mwanza, Kigali, Juba, Bujumbura, Hargeisa, Mogadishu, Goma, Kisangani and Moroni.

We are confident that the Q400 aircraft will allow us to implement our growth strategy as we strive to launch new routes and to respond to the anticipated increase in demand, Willem Hondius, Jambojet’s chief executive, said in a statement.

The budget carrier will lease the aircraft from Danish firm Nordic Aviation Capital which in turn signed a purchase order for the planes with Montreal-based Bombardier on Wednesday.

Jambojet, which has been operational since April 2014, currently operates four aircraft — two Q400 planes which were also acquired this year and two Boeing 737s leased from its parent firm.

The airline plies six routes in Kenya; between Nairobi and Mombasa, Eldoret, Kisumu, Malindi and Ukunda (Diani). We are looking at retiring our narrow body fleet (Boeing 737s) and transitioning to an all-Q400 fleet by end of this year, said Mr Hondius.

The carrier has already returned one of the Boeings to KQ with the national carrier now expected to put it up for sale.

Thousands of Jambojet passengers travelling to the Coast over Christmas were hit by flight delays and cancellations.

The airline said the delays resulted from technical problems on one Bombardier, which was compounded by the delayed arrival of the aircraft to handle higher passenger numbers during the holiday season.

Jambojet, which issued an apology for these delays, has since then set out to increase its fleet to avoid a repeat of this incident even as looks to expand regionally.

Jambojet has slashed baggage fees by up to 65 per cent in a bid to generate more non-passenger ticket revenue for the budget airline.

The low-cost carrier has announced that its highest luggage fee, charged on 32 kilogrammes of baggage, will drop to Sh5,500 for payments made at their airport and half that for bookings made through agents or online.

This marks a sharp fall from the Sh15,600 and Sh7,800 respectively which Jambojet, a Kenya Airways subsidiary, was charging its customers.

We have reduced the rates, allowing passengers to carry more for less, Jambojet chief executive Willem Hondius said. We have also reduced the baggage fee bands making it easier for passengers to choose.

Jambojet’s baggage policy review comes a few months after it hired Catherine Mwangi as its ancillary manager.

Ancillary services in the airline industry include entertainment, onboard shopping, Internet gaming, car hire, frequent flier programmes, hotel bookings, checked baggage and better cabin seating.

The extras normally add on to and sometimes exceed the budget ticket costs.

Ms Mwangi has previously held various marketing jobs at Qatar Airways, Air France-KLM as well as South African Airways.

Payments made at the airport will cost double across all bands.

Jambojet achieved a 90 per cent on-time-performance (OTP) in September and October mainly driven by a new fleet, records show.

The low-cost carrier recorded a six per cent higher average of OTP in the two months after recording 84 per cent in August.

OTP is an industry benchmark calculated based on flights taking off and landing within 15 minutes of the scheduled time.

We are well over our target of 80 per cent which is considerably better than the industry average. Without a doubt, this is a very good sign as we go into the peak festive season, said Jambojet chief executive Willem Hondius.

Our investment in the two new Bombardier Dash 8 Q400 aircrafts has enabled us to deliver a very reliable flight schedule across the country and live up to the expectation of customers.

The airline has maintained an average OTP of 85 per cent in the past seven months, Mr Hondius said.

Jambojet has in its nearly four years of operation in Kenya increased its routes from four to six, with increased frequency of flights due to fleet expansion.

It currently operates 75 flights per week on its domestic routes from Nairobi to Mombasa, Eldoret, Kisumu, Malindi and Ukunda.

The airline, which has a code-share agreement with Kenya Airways for domestic travel, expects delivery of two new aircraft later this year.




Tourism Observer

KENYA: 27 Dead Along Mombasa-Nairobi Highway In Grisly Road Accident, And more before

27 people have been confirmed dead following head on collision between Malindi bound bus and a truck at Kambu along Mombasa-Nairobi highway. The accident happened in the early morning hours around 2a.m at kambu along Mombasa-Nairobi Highway.

Area OCPD Leonard Kimaiyo, the accident involved a bus that was bound to Malindi belonging to Buscar Company and oil tanker that was headed to Nairobi from Mombasa.

The casualties have been taken to makindu sub_county hospital and the bodies ferried to the Makindu hospital mortuary.

It was a very bad head-on collision. Twenty seven passengers have been killed, a police officer said.

Eldoret: 2 people killed when a truck rammed onto vehicles after breaks failed

Two people died on the spot, six in critical condition while seven escaped with slight injuries after a truck lost control and rammed into several vehicles in Eldoret. The 9.00PM incident occurred near the Brookside depot along the Eldoret- Kapsabet road less than a kilometre from the central business district.

Eye witnesses say the truck that was carrying cement and other building material was headed to Eldoret from Kapsabet when it's brakes failed causing the driver to hit vehicles on its way down the steep section of the road.

Two people died on the spot, six in critical condition while seven escaped with slight injuries after a truck lost control and rammed into several vehicles in Eldoret. The 9.00PM incident occurred near the Brookside depot along the Eldoret- Kapsabet road less than a kilometre from the central business district.

It was reported that the lorry first hit an oncoming town service matatu that was headed to Langas before hitting a probox which hit a motorbike before plunging to the roadside. The motorcycle rider reportedly died on the spot with those in the probox and matatu sustaining serious injuries.

Traffic police from Eldoret who arrived at the scene immediately confirmed the death of two people, adding that out of the injured, six were critical while seven had slight injuries. The injured were taken to the nearby Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital where they are being treated.

Mombasa: Five people killed when a bus collides head on with a truck

Five people were Wednesday morning killed after a Chania Cool bus collided head on with a truck near Salama along the Mombasa-Nairobi Highway. Police say at least 20 other passengers were injured in the 1 am incident.

According to police, the lorry was overtaking when it collided with the bus that was headed for Mombasa. “The lorry driver is believed to have miscalculated the distance when he decided to overtake at a hilly place while the bus was moving at high speed.

Among the dead was the bus driver,” said traffic commandant Jacinta Kinyua. Ms Kinyua said such errors are causing many deaths. The injured are admitted in various hospitals in Makindu and Machakos. The accident caused a huge traffic jam for hours before the scene was cleared. This is the latest accident to happen in the country increasing the toll further. Police have called for caution from driver to avoid such incidents.

Nine killed in Salgaa accidents

Nine people died in two separate road accidents in Salgaa along the Nakuru-Eldoret highway. In the first incident, seven people died on the spot after the driver of a speeding trailer lost control and rammed a matatu near Ngata Bridge on Sunday. Both the driver of the matatu and of the trailer were among those who died on the spot.

The matatu that was headed to Eldoret had 11 passengers on board while the lorry heading to Nakuru had two passengers. According to witnesses, the accident occurred after the lorry swerved off the road as its driver tried to avoid hitting a fuel tanker from behind. In the process, the driver rammed the matatu from the right side.

The accident occurred a few hours after a 34-seater minibus rammed a personal car at Greensteds area along the Nakuru-Nairobi Highway, killing two people. Witnesses said the driver of the private car, who died on the spot, was attempting to overtake when the vehicle was hit from its side by the bus and rolled several times. The survivors were rushed to St Mary’s Hospital in Gilgil and bodies transported to Umash Funeral home.

At Ngata, Fredrick Cherogony, whose house is situated near the scene of the accident, said he was heading home with his friends when he saw the speeding lorry almost hitting a trailer that was headed in the same direction. Serious Injuries “It looked like the two drivers were challenging each other as they descended the long stretch at a curved section of the road,” said the witness.

He said the lorry driver lost control of the vehicle while descending the hilly section of the road and hit the matatu before dragging it off the tarmac road, then landed on it. Cherogony said it was likely the lorry driver was freewheeling while descending, hence could not control the vehicle. Five people in the matatu who escaped with serious injuries were rushed to Nakuru County Level Five General Hospital while bodies were moved to Nakuru County public mortuary.

At the scene, blood-stained luggage including personal effects were strewn all over. The wreckages of the vehicles were towed to Nakuru Central Police Station. Regional Traffic Enforcement Officer Mary Omari arrived at the scene but declined to talk to the media amid protests from residents, who accused the traffic department in the region of engaging in corrupt activities.

A woman, who was travelling in the lorry but survived, said the truck driver was sick and had sought treatment along the highway. “I saw him take some tablets and after inquiring what the problem was, he told me he was feeling unwell. But before the accident occurred, I saw him straining a lot,” said the woman, who escaped with serious cuts on her face.

She said the only thing she remembered seeing at the scene of the crash were bodies strewn all over.

Five dead in Makueni County

Five people died and several others seriously injured in yet another grisly accident on the Wote –Makindu road in Makueni County. Four of the Wednesday evening crash died on the spot while the fifth one succumbed to injuries on his way to Makueni Level Five hospital.

Makueni OCPD Benjamin Onsongo confirmed the accident and said police have launched investigation into the Wednesday evening crash. The police chief said eight victims are recuperating At the Makueni Level Five referral hospital where they were admitted with multiple injuries. The bodies of the dead were removed to the hospital's mortuary.

He said the 14 seater Nissan matatu was heading to Makindu from Wote town when the accident occurred at about 6.00pm. Onsogo told reporters that driver of the ill-fated matatu lost its control forcing it to roll several times near Maseka Bridge. Eye witnesses said the matatu was over speeding at the time of the crash which occurred at a sharp cornered section of the road.

Five relatives killed in car crash in Kiambu

A family in Gatundu South is still struggling to come to terms with a tragic accident that killed five relatives. And yesterday, news that the only survivor in the Ndenderu accident in Kiambu had succumbed to his injuries hit them hard.

Two brothers Daniel Kinyanjui, 42, Peter Ndai,38, their sister-in-law and her nine-year old daughter died on the spot when the accident occurred last week.

Their brother, Richard Kibingi, who was the driver of the car they were travelling in on the fateful day survived though with serious injuries. He, however, succumbed to his injuries on Sunday at the Kenyatta National Hospital where he was undergoing treatment. The accident occurred after the driver of a lorry carrying sand lost control after the brakes failed and rammed into about 10 cars. Mr Kibingi’s wife and daughter died on the spot.

Their two-year-old son, Alvis Kamau, however, was lucky and survived. The family was travelling back to Nairobi from Nyahururu where they had gone to visit their eldest brother. When The Standard visited their home in Kahenia, Gatundu South, the family was still in shock trying to come to terms with the tragic loss.

The mother of the deceased brothers, Elizabeth Wamaitha, 80, was in shock as she struggled to come to terms with the tragedy that had befallen her family. However, This is not the first shocking death the family has to deal with. The mother of 10 said in 1993 the family lost their daughter after she was poisoned. Five years later, her son died after he was hit by a vehicle as he crossed the road near Gatundu town.

And as fate would have it, two of her daughters also died after falling ill, years later. With only three children out of the 10 remaining, Ms Wamaitha said the news of her children’s death had shocked her beyond words, adding that she has been asking herself why calamity keeps dogging her family. “There is nothing that I can say concerning my children’s death. It is God’s will, which we have accepted and cannot question.

He knows better why it had to happen like that,” she said amid tears. Wamaitha said they had hoped Kibingi would recover from his injuries. She is appealing for help in bringing up the children who have been left behind by her departed sons.

5 dead in Salgaa accident

A dark cloud engulfed Iruri Village in Nyeri County during the burial of five out of seven family members who perished in a grisly road accident along the Nakuru-Eldoret Highway last Friday. In an emotional ceremony, Charles Kibira 62, his oldest son Gerald Munyi 36, his son's wife Gladys Mukuhi, 27, their Daughter Anne Wambui, 7, and their two year-old son Maina Munyi were laid to rest in their ancestral home in Nyeri.

Relatives, neighbours, friends and government representatives came togetherness to give the departed souls a dignified send-off even as mourned for the big loss. 'We are in pain and hoping this is the last time Kenyans are losing their lives at this (Salgaa black) spot, the President should do something to ease our sufferings," Charles Otieno said, a representative of the family's friends from Kitale lamented.

Otieno observed that it was painful for a family to lose such a great number in a single day urging the government to intervene. "Losing family members in a single day is not normal, let the death of Kibira and his family be a wakeup call to the government to do something about rising road accidents," he said. Their burial came after two of the seven who died in the accident were laid to rest at their Molo home, Nakuru County on Thursday July 21.

Thousands of mourners travelled from as far as Kitale and Trans Nzoia in Western Kenya to join their compatriots from Central Kenya to bid fare well to the victim. The five died after their vehicle collided head-on with a truck at the notorious Salgaa black spot on the previous Friday night. Caskets bearing the remains of the departed relatives were placed at a tent erected in the middle of Iruri Primary school playing field, where an interdenominational service was conducted.

On the coffin, was by a cross bearing the names of the victims, their date of birth and when they died, starting with Kibira, his son, daughter in- law and his two grandchildren. Before his death Kibira had plied the route for over 40 years and was on his way back from Nyeri where he had attended a relative's burial. Mathira MP Peter Weru asked the government to consider constructing a dual carriage at Salgaa and other black spots in the country in order to save lives.

"There are answers to all black spot. Roads can be redesigned and Police need their role and responsibilities," Weru observed. The MP warned traffic police officers and the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) who take bribes from rogue drivers at the expense of road users. He further promised to table a motion in parliament next week to discuss about the construction of a dual carriage at the site.

Nakuru county Woman Representative Mary Mbugua said the parliamentary committee on energy to which she was a member had recommended for a dual carriage to be put up at Salgaa. She however asked the drivers to be careful and cautioned drivers against careless driving. "Trucks will use their own lane as other vehicles use different ones," the MP said.

Trans Nzoia Deputy county commissioner Albert Mwalwa advised drivers to be careful while on the road and give way to other motorists instead of insisting they are on their right side. "Let us stop insisting on our right of way and instead let us use our common sense because in case of an accident we all perish," Albert Mwalwa explained.

Five injured in Murang'a after car runs into market

Five people suffered fractured limbs in Murang'a after a saloon car rammed on them after it lost control at Mukuyu market. The vehicle loaded with onions destined to the market was reported to have lost control after its brakes failed as the driver struggled to join Murang'a-Nairobi highway. Business at the busy market came to stand still as traders abandoned their schedules to take the injured to Murang'a district hospital for treatment.

The residents called on the police to order removal of the lorries that have remained parked along the road reserves blaming them for the accident. Peter Kamau a resident said the trucks are a major obstruction to other road users as they block the visibility of the highway. Mukuyu-Kahuro junction, he said has remained a challenge to many of the motorists due to parking of trucks awaiting to be hired to transport building materials.

"The accident could have been avoided but the five were unable to escape due to the presence of the trucks in the road reserves," said Kamau. Murang'a traffic base commander Bernard Kurgat said the five suffered serious wounds and fractured limbs following the accident. "The five are responding well to treatment at Murang'a district hospital.

People while walking along the road should be cautious as brakes fails and could results into accidents," said Kurgat. The wreckage of the vehicle was towed to Murang'a police station to enable police conduct investigations.

Seven family members killed in Salgaa returning from a burial

A family had just buried one of their own. A man, his son, daughter, daughter-in-law and three grandchildren were on their way home to Kitale after attending the burial of a relative in Nyeri County. But the seven died when their vehicle collided with a truck head-on at Sobea on the Nakuru-Eldoret highway on Friday night. The tragic end of their journey threw relatives in deeper grief.

Family and friends at home and at the Nakuru Referral Hospital mortuary where their bodies are lying were in tears and shock. Those who perished were Charles Munyi, 60, (father), Gerald Munyi (son), Alice Muthoni (daughter) Gladys Mukuhe (daughter-in-law), Joe Maina, 6, Myles Ndung’u, 2 and another grandchild. The family members are among 16 people killed in two accidents on the same night. Nine people were burnt to death when a Nissan matatu they were travelling in was involved in a grisly accident on the Mai Mahiu-Narok road.

According to a relative, Peter Wanjau, the victims of the Sobea crash were headed to Kitale after attending the burial of their kin in Nyeri when the accident occurred a few minutes past 1am. Two of the grandchildren inside the extensively damaged car belonged to the man’s son, while his daughter had one child. The seven died on the spot, while the truck’s occupants escaped with minor injuries. “I was headed to Nairobi when I came across the accident.

The small car’s number plate was familiar and I had to cut short my journey when I realised all the people I knew had gone forever,” Wanjau said outside the mortuary. A witness, Ali Mohammed, said after the collision, a bus headed the same direction with the small car rammed it from behind, pushing it further into the lorry. “The small car was dragged for about 40m from the point of impact before the heavy truck landed on it, killing all the occupants,” said Mohammed.

He said the driver of the ill-fated Toyota 110 car was trying to overtake several vehicles along a stretch climbing lane when the accident occurred. The bodies were taken to Nakuru County Hospital mortuary, while the vehicles were towed to Salgaa Police Station. Unconfirmed number of injured passengers were taken to Rift Valley Provincial Hospital in Nakuru for treatment. In Machinjoni estate on the outskirts of Kitale town, Trans Nzoia County, relatives and neighbours tried to come to terms with the tragedy.

The family background is in Karatina, Nyeri County, but they reside in Kitale. Anna Wambui, 50, whose husband, two children, a daughter-in-law and three grandchildren perished, could not control her tears when the news were broken to her yesterday morning. Simon Wamwere, a relative, said they were shocked of the sudden turn of events, which has left the entire family desolate. “The family was very humble and hardworking. The son who perished was a renowned electrician in Kitale town and a breadwinner to the family,” said Wamwere.

He said he was informed of the tragedy at around 2am while in Bungoma and he called some of the relatives in Nakuru to ascertain if indeed it was true. “As a family, we are in deep loss since almost the entire family has perished,” he said as tears rolled down his cheeks. The widow could not speak and was kept indoors where her wails could be heard from the outside, as neighbours made frantic efforts to comfort her. Relatives and friends milled the mortuary in Nakuru to view the badly mutilated bodies.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Esther Wangare, Munyi’s daughter, said it is painful to have lost seven members in the accident. “It is so painful. I lack words to express my feeling,” said Wangare. She did not have the courage to view the bodies. Wangare, who lives in Kikuyu town, said she received a phone call from her sister Alice Muthoni at 5pm on Friday, informing her that they had begun their journey back to Kitale.

However, at around 8.30pm, she received another call informing her that they had been involved in a mishap at Nyahururu town and had sustained slight injuries but were proceeding with the journey. “My sister told me that while at Nyahururu, a vehicle had hit theirs though they were all fine apart from her who had a slight injury,” recalled Wangare.

At 4am, she received a call from her close family friend telling her that her family members had been involved in a road accident at Salgaa. She later learnt that all her seven family members had died. Joseph Mbuthia, could not believe he lost her loving wife Muthoni and a two-year-old son to the accident. “I have lost a lover, a friend, a wife who made my life comfortable.

I do not know how life will be by this instant turn of events,” he said. Mbuthia said he received information from a friend that his wife and son had died. The two had been married for 10 years and have three children.

Three children and their grandfather die in crash

Twice a week, three children would eagerly wait by the sides of the busy Makutano-Embu road to push their grandfather home. The bond between the two doting boys and a girl aged between 7 and 10 and their wheelchair-bound grandfather, 60, had been nurtured over the last three years. But on Saturday, their journey came to a crashing end.

Yesterday, relatives of the old man, Jackson Mbutu, recounted how the four were mowed down by a speeding pick-up truck that veered off the road. There was eerie silence in the family’s Kirwara home in Kirinyaga County as they contemplated the consequences of the horrific road crash.

After hitting the four, the vehicle’s driver took off but was cornered by boda boda operators some two kilometres away. He, however, managed to escape and the boda boda operators and residents burnt his vehicle to ashes. Unique Bond The three children, Brian Kinyanjui (10), Miriam Wambui (9) and Jackson Mbutu Junior (7) were pushing their grandfather in his wheelchair along the busy road as they had done routinely for three years.

They were all firstborns of Mbutu’s three children, who had two children each. Mbutu, a cobbler at Makutano market, lived some 500 metres from the main road near Wamumu Approved School.

He would visit the market twice a week on market day to serve his customers. Nehemiah Mutugi, Jackson Mbutu Junior’s father, was yesterday lost in grief after losing his father and his first-born son. “Every Wednesday and Saturday — which are Makutano market days — my father would wheel himself to the market because it was the best time to cater to his clients,” he said.

Mutugi, who works as a boda boda operator at the market, said his son adored his grandfather, who often offered them a ride on the back of his tricycle wheelchair. “As a child, my father used to carry me on his tricycle wheelchair and when my son and his cousins were old enough, they too started enjoyed riding on the wheelchair and pushing their grandfather around,” said Mutugi.
For Beatrice Wamiru, 48, the loss of her husband and grandchildren has left her numb and disoriented.

During their 30 years of marriage, Mbutu was the sole breadwinner and her closest friend. “When we met in 1986, he wooed me with his cheerful disposition. He was confined to a wheelchair after he contracted polio in childhood but his physical condition did not deter him from enjoying life,” said Wamiru. During the interview, Wamiru was overcome by grief.

She leaned on her children for support, unable to comprehend the loss she has to endure. “My grandchildren were very close to their grandfather. Everyday, they came to visit him and help him feed the cows or assist with household chores,” said Wamiru. Diana Njeri, Miriam Wambui’s mother was in utter shock. She said her daughter, nephews and grandfather were inseparable.

“When they were younger, they would escort him to Makutano market and as they grew older, they often walked longer distances to ensure he was able to navigate the bumpy road from Makutano to our home,” said Njeri. “It was a unique and natural bond between grandparent and grandchildren,” said a mourning Mutugi. Playful Son Another grieving parent, Faith Wangari, Brian Kinyanjui’s mother, said her son was always playful and cheerful.

“He used to leave school and rush straight to his grandparents’ home to play with his cousins. We raised them as one family and now we have lost all of them at once,” said Wangari. On Saturday evening as the children had always done, they met their grandfather wheeling himself home. Upon reaching a steep hill near the Wamumu section of the highway, all the three children huddled together to help push their grandfather up.

It was then that the truck hit them. While the three children died on the spot, Mbutu was rushed to Kerugoya Level 5 Hospital, where he passed away. “After my father was pronounced dead, the same ambulance that had taken him there took the body to the Mwea Mission Hospital Mortuary, where the bodies of his grandchildren lay,” narrated a sobbing Mutugi. Mwea East OCPD Titus Yoma described the scene of the accident as a black spot.

The family has started making arrangements for burials of their four loved ones. The truck driver, David Ndung’u, was arrested and charged in a Wang’uru Court with dangerous driving and causing the death of the four family members. He was released on a Sh500,000 bond.

Man, child burnt to death

Two people were Saturday burnt to death in two separate fire incidences in Kisumu. In the first incident, a five-year baby was burnt to death when their grass-thatched house caught fire in Wawidhi village, Nyando Sub-County. Kisumu Police Commander Titus Yoma said the boy's parents were attending a funeral in a neighbouring home and had lit a tin lamp which started the fire.

Efforts by residents to put out the 2am fire were futile. And in Kisumu's Ondiek estate, quick response by residents and the fire brigade to stop a raging inferno ignited by a stove from consuming up to five houses and several iron sheet shanties failed. The owner of the single-roomed shanty in which the fire is believed to have started died in the 1am incident.

Driver runs over his boss

A leading Naivasha farmer is fighting for his life in a private hospital after one of his farm drivers turned against him and hit him using a tractor after a quarrel. The farmer had to be airlifted to Nairobi for specialized treatment after the incident which left other workers in shock.

A witness who declined to be named said that the farm manager stumbled on one of his drivers siphoning fuel from a truck.

"The driver was ordered to drive the truck back to the office for disciplinary action but he ended up smashing the farmer against his vehicle before fleeing from the scene," he said. A senior police officer confirmed the incident adding that the farmer was in serious but stable condition while a manhunt for the fleeing driver had been launched.

"The driver of the tractor is still at large after running over his boss who is admitted in a private hospital suffering from head and leg injuries," said the officer. Meanwhile, Naivasha sub-committee security committee has identified Nyandarua and Western Kenya as the main source of bhang that is been sold in the region.

This came as six suspects including two women said to be the main suppliers of the narcotics were arrested after a week-long hunt. The six were found by AP officers with tens of rolls bhang in Kayole estate bringing to 12 the number of suspects arrested by security officers selling the drug in a span of two weeks.

According to Naivasha sub-county commissioner Isaac Masinde they had identified Aberdare forest in Nyandarua and Western Kenya as the main source of the drug. Masinde said that the drug was finding its way into some of the schools leading to the current unrest where some learning institutions had been burnt down.

"We have managed to arrest six of the main suppliers of drugs in the sub-county and the operation will continue until all the peddlers are put behind bars," he said. Masinde identified Kihoto, Kayole and Kabati as the main estates in Naivasha where the drug was been sold mainly by youths.

On his part, the Naivasha AP boss John Mukunya praised his officers for the arrest adding that it would be spread to other estates. "We are issuing a warning to all those involved in this illegal trade that their days are numbered and it's a matter of day before we catch up with them," he said.

Two die in a grisly Kisumu accident

Two people died on the spot while three others were critically injured in a road accident along the Kisumu-Kakamega road Tuesday morning. The accident involved a truck that was headed towards Kisumu town, a pick-up and a motorcycle that was headed in the opposite direction. Eye witnesses said the accident occurred after the driver of the lorry that was descending down the hill lost control of the vehicle and hit the motorcycle before ramming into the oncoming pick up.

"The driver of the truck which was carrying sand was driving at a high speed before he lost control of the vehicle," a witness told the Standard. Regional Traffic and Reinforcement Officer Andrew Naibei confirmed that the motorcyclist and a pedestrian perished on the spot. Naibei noted that among the injured who included the driver of the truck, his turn boy and the driver of the pickup truck were rushed to Jaramogi Oginga Teaching and Referral Hospital.

"This area is a black spot and we are urging drivers to be cautious when plying the route," said Naibei. He noted that the state of the road which is narrow and is still under construction could have contributed to the accident. "This road is still not in a good condition and drivers may be tempted to engage the free gear," he said. He urged all road users to be careful while using the roads and vowed to arrest and bring to book errant road users.

"We will arrest drivers who are not wearing seat belts and also riders who do not have reflective jackets and helmets," added Naibei. Area residents accused the truck drivers playing the route of being careless and putting the lives of many people at risk. "We have had a big problem with the truck drivers and this is the second accident in barely a week involving one of the trucks carrying sand," said Gladys Atieno, a resident.

They urged the police to set up a road block at the place that is deemed to be a black spot to monitor vehicles plying the route in order to stop road carnage.

1,600 lives lost in road accidents in last six months

More than 1,602 people have died in road accidents in the last six months, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has said. These are 89 more lives lost compared to the same period last year. As at July 1, new data by NTSA shows, 1,585 people had died in road accidents, reflecting a 5.7 per cent rise from the 1,499 who died in the same period last year.

The number of those injured has also increased by 1,537 to 7,160. Of these, 2,606 sustained serious injuries while 2,969 had slight injuries. Pedestrians were the most affected with 615 deaths and 584 serious injuries. Some 193 drivers also died during this period, while 293 sustained serious injuries, 354 passengers died while 1,151 sustained serious injuries.

Some 106 pillion passengers (those on bicycles and motorbikes) were also among the dead, with 234 sustaining serious injuries. Some 37 cyclists and 283 motorcyclists respectively died in the same period, while some 41 cyclists and 321 motorcyclists were reported as seriously injured. "We blame these incidents on drunken driving, speeding and dangerous overtaking," NTSA Director General Francis Meja said while unveiling new regulations on drink driving on Monday.

These statistics come days after the ill-fated accident along the Kisii-Kilgoris road that marked the end of eight lives, among them six university students in their early 20s. According to an eye witness, the students might have been drunk (as bottles of assorted alcohol were found scattered at the scene) and they were speeding.

As part of the new measures unveiled by NTSA, motorists will now be issued with new generation driving licences that are electronically connected to insurers. Other steps taken include having insurers deny cover to un-inspected or unroadworthy vehicles.

KENYA: Mombasa City

Mombasa is a city on the coast of Kenya. It is the country's second-largest city,after the capital Nairobi, with an estimated population of about 1.2 million people in 2016. Its metropolitan region is the second largest in the country and has a population of approximately two million people.Administratively, Mombasa is the capital of Mombasa County.

A regional cultural and economic hub, Mombasa has an extra-large port and an international airport, and is an important regional tourism centre. Located on the east coast of Kenya, in Mombasa County and the former Coast Province, Mombasa's situation on the Indian Ocean made it a historical trading centre, and it has been controlled by many countries because of its strategic location.

It is located on Mombasa Island and sprawls to the surrounding mainlands. The island is separated from the mainland by two creeks: Tudor Creek and Kilindini Harbour. It is connected to the mainland to the north by the Nyali Bridge, to the south by the Likoni Ferry, and to the west by the Makupa Causeway, alongside which runs the Kenya-Uganda Railway. The port serves both Kenya and countries of the interior, linking them to the ocean. The city is served by Moi International Airport located in the northwest mainland suburb of Chaani.

Mombasa has a cosmopolitan population, with the Swahili people and Mijikenda predominant. Other communities include the Akamba and Taita Bantus as well as a significant population of Luo and Luhya peoples from Western Kenya. The major religions practised in the city are Islam, Christianity and Hinduism. Over the centuries, many immigrants and traders have settled in Mombasa, particularly from the Middle East, Somalia, and the Indian sub-continent, who came mainly as traders and skilled craftsmen.

The founding of Mombasa is associated with two rulers: Mwana Mkisi (female) and Shehe Mvita. According to oral history and medieval commentaries, Shehe Mvita superseded the dynasty of Mwana Mkisi and established his own town on Mombasa Island. Shehe Mvita is remembered as a Muslim of great learning and so is connected more directly with the present ideals of Swahili culture that people identify with Mombasa.

The ancient history associated with Shehe Mvita and the founding of an urban settlement on Mombasa Island is still linked to present-day peoples living in Mombasa. The Thenashara Taifa or Twelve Nations Swahili lineages recount this ancient history today and are the keepers of local Swahili traditions. Even though today Mombasa is a very heterogeneous cultural mix, families associated with the Twelve Nations are still considered the original inhabitants of the city.

Being a coastal town, Mombasa is characterised by a flat topography. The town of Mombasa is centred on Mombasa Island, but extends to the mainland. The island is separated from the mainland by two creeks, Port Reitz in the south and Tudor Creek in the north.

Surburbs Of Mombasa

Mombasa Island

Kizingo: Considered the prime residential area of Mombasa. The State House of Mombasa, Provincial Headquarters, The Mombasa Law Courts, and the Municipal Council are located in Kizingo. The Aga Khan Academy, Aga Khan High School, Serani Primary School, Serani High School, Santokben Nursery School, Coast Academy, Jaffery Academy, Mombasa Primary School, Loreto Convent, Mama Ngina Girls' High School and the Government Training Institute (GTI) Mombasa are all in Kizingo as well.

Kibokoni: Part of Old Town with Swahili architecture. Fort Jesus is in Baghani.

Englani:Part of Old town between Kibokoni and Makadara.

Kuze: Part of Old Town with Swahili culture and architecture. Originally flourishing with Swahili people but currently becoming a more cosmopolitan neighbourhood.

Makadara: Part of Old Town consisting of a high number of descendants of Baluchi former soldiers who settled within this area before it developed into a town. The name is derived from the Arabic word Qadr-ur-Rahman meaning fate of God.

Ganjoni: Primarily a middle class residential, home of second biggest dry dock of Africa after the one in South Africa.

Tudor: Another middle class residential area with homes and shops. The Technical University of Mombasa (TUM)is situated in this neighbourhood.

North Coast

Nyali: Also considered a prime and up-market residential area, it is on the mainland north of the island and is linked by the New Nyali Bridge. It has numerous beach front hotels in the area known as the "North Coast". Nyali has two distinct sections – the posh Old Nyali and the upcoming New Nyali. For many residents, Nyali has now become a self-contained residential area, with two Nakumatts, a multiplex cinema, shopping malls, banks, schools and post offices. This often eliminates the need for residents to cross the bridge and to go into the congested Mombasa city centre. Nyali is home for the Nyali Cinemax complex, Mamba Village, the Nyali Golf Club, and some of the most prestigious academic institutions of the Coast Province.

Kongowea: is a densely populated area with 15 villages, two sub-locations and an estimated population of 106,180 residents.Kongowea is a cosmopolitan settlement mainly inhabited by people from mainland who migrated into the city in search of employment, mainly in service and manufacturing sector. The area is adjacent to the rich suburb of Nyali which employs a portion of the village residents. They are mainly hired as cheap labour as watchmen, gardeners, masons for up coming houses and house help. The most well known villages inside Kongowea include Kisumu Ndogo, Shauri Yako and Mnazi Mmoja, despite being located in this prime area, many residents live under extreme conditions – poor sanitation, high crime rate and lack of basic essential amenities like schools, hospitals and tap water. Kongowea is also home to one of the largest open-air markets in the African Great Lakes.

Bamburi: also an outlying township (fifteen minutes drive) along the Malindi road. Bamburi is the location of Bamburi Portland Cement Company. Other notable features in the area are the Mijikenda public beach, commonly known as Pirates, and Haller Park, a nature trail and wildlife conservatory. Kiembeni Estate, also in the Bamburi area, hosts around 100,000 residents. The estate has its own supermarket, several retail shops, salons and boutiques, and a number of licensed drinking dens. The establishments include The Shilla Bar, Turkey Base, Stars Garden and Sensera pub. Kiembeni is arguably the largest estate in Mombasa, and growing even faster.

Other areas include, Shanzu, Mkomani, Bombolulu, Kisauni and, across the Mtwapa creek, the popular area of Mtwapa, which is already located in Kilifi county.

The North Coast is famous for its broad entertainment industry which attracts locals and tourists as well.

South Coast

Likoni: is a lower income and lower-middle-class neighbourhood connected to Mombasa Island by ferry. It is south of Mombasa Island and made up of mostly non-Swahili Bantu tribes. The ferry was the target of the Likoni Riots of 1997.

Diani Beach: a beach resort area situated over the Likoni Ferry on the south coast of Mombasa. It is located some 36 km (22 mi) south of Mombasa city on the mainland coast and is a prime resort for many local and international tourists. Diani Beach has an airport at Ukunda town to cater for tourists who fly there directly from Nairobi Wilson or any other airports and airfields in the country.

Mombasa Mainland
Magongo: is an outlying township 20 minutes driving distance northwest of Mombasa Island, situated on the Nairobi Highway. This fringe community lacks any effective electricity, water or sewer systems, with a general lack of infrastructure. Poverty, lack of sanitation, and unemployment continue to be the greatest issues for the Mikindani Township, which have ensured low health and safety standards for its residents. Poor, lower class housing is widespread, ranging from simple stone, two-storey structures to mud and earth homes fitted with corrugated iron roofs.

Much of the community works outside of the township, within Mombasa Island itself as there is a lack of employment and industry. There are number of small health clinics, shops, and a few public primary schools: Nazarene primary is one school, which is known in particular as being staffed by a revolving volunteer teacher base from Western, and predominately English speaking nations. This small town serves as a link between the city and Moi International Airport. Magongo is also home to the Akamba Handicraft Cooperative.

Mikindani, a suburban area: This is an outlying township on the mainland along the Nairobi Highway. It is built in the heavy industrial sections of Changamwe and mainly accommodate the working class who either work in the industries, the town centre on the Island and the Port at Kilindini harbour.

Miritini: outlying township on the Mombasa Nairobi Highway which is first growing as a suburban area.

Changamwe: Industrial area which contains the Kipevu power generation projects, the Kenya Oil Refinery Company facility and housing estates such as Chaani and is the gateway to the Moi International Airport. The area has administrative offices of the D.O and the chiefs who serve the administrative division.

Migadini & Chaani: They are two adjacent estate that are located east of Airport road and east of Kenya Port Authority. They are bordered by Port Reitz, Magongo and KPA

Port Reitz: Is a suburb on the mainland which contains a beach, oil refineries, housing estates etc. Moi International Airport and the Port Reitz District Hospital are in Port Reitz.

Culture

A major cultural hub in Kenya and the African Great Lakes, Mombasa's proximity to Zanzibar, Nairobi and the Indian subcontinent, as well as its large shipping and maritime industries gives it a diverse mosaic of cultures. Music is a main feature of Mombasa's culture.

Religion
The majority of Mombasa's population is Muslim.This large population has recently adapted Arab immigrant practices into Swahili New Year. The celebrations of maulidi, a celebration of the Prophet Muhammad’s birth, and shirk, the Mombasa adopted name for the Swahili New Year, have witnessed an increasing overlap of cultures within the city. This parallels increased migration of Muslim Arab immigrants in the region.

The Catholics are pastorally served by the Metropolitan Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Mombasa.

Music and nightlife
Taarab music, which originates from Zanzibar, has a prominent local presence. Styles of music native to Mombasa include the smooth and mellow Bango, fast-paced Chakacha and traditional Mwanzele.

Musicians of note are Mombasa Roots, Safari Sounds, Them Mushrooms, Anwar Juma Bhalo and Princess Farida. Mombasa has been the home or base for former greats like Fundi Konde, known for his song "Tausi"; Fadhili Williams and Grand Charo, famous for the song "Malaika"; Sal Davies; Malika Mohammed; Stara Butte; Juma Bhalo. Contemporary hip-hop fusion artistes are Susumila, Majizee, Nyota Ndogo, Cannibal (musician), Sharama and Ukoo Flani super group which once could boast up to 40 rappers.

Recently, hip hop, reggae, soul, blues, salsa and among the Indian community, bhangra have become popular, especially amongst the youth. Mombasa is mainly a tourism centre populated by hundreds of entertainment spots of all categories from night clubs, bars, hotels, fancy restaurants and many more. It has the most vibrant night life in Kenya catering to the mainly tourist population.

Sports

Currently, Mombasa is represented in the Kenyan Premier League by Bandari F.C, which plays at the Mbaraki Sports Grounds. Also, the Congo United FC, Promoted and dropped in 2011, are in the second tier Nationwide Super League with 4 other hometown clubs – Admiral F.C.; Magongo Rangers; Sparki Youth and Coast United.Derbies between Mombasa teams have become intriguing affairs recently.

Another team, Coast Stars, was relegated several years ago from the league. The only Mombasa-based team to win the league is Feisal F.C., the 1965 champions. Kiziwi leopards was a popular team in the 1980s as was Mombasa Wanderers decades before. There are several cricket teams in Mombasa. One of them is Mombasa Sports Club (MSC), whose ground was given ODI status in 2006. MSC has also a rugby union team playing in the Kenya Cup League, the premier rugby competition in Kenya. Mvita XI men and MSC ladies represent Mombasa in Kenyan field hockey leagues.

The 2007 World Cross Country Championships were held in Mombasa. Mombasa Marathon is competed annually in Mombasa. The town also hosts the biennial classic edition of Safari Rally and annually a Kenya National Rally Championship round.

Scuba diving takes place mostly within the Mombasa Marine National Park and Reserve, which is managed and maintained by Kenya Wildlife Service. The park has a length of about 8 km (5.0 mi).

Business

Biashara Street, Mombasa
Mombasa is a major trade centre and home to Kenya's only large seaport, the Kilindini Harbour.Kilindini is an old Swahili term meaning "deep". The port is so-called because the channel is naturally very deep. Kilindini Harbor is an example of a natural geographic phenomenon called a ria, formed at the end of the last glacial period when the sea level rose and engulfed a river that was flowing from the mainland.

Mombasa is a centre of coastal tourism in Kenya. Mombasa Island itself is not a main attraction, although many people visit the Old Town and Fort Jesus. The Nyali, Bamburi, and Shanzu beaches are located north of the city. The Shelly, Tiwi, and Diani beaches are located south of Mombasa. Several luxury hotels exist on these beaches, while the less expensive hotels are located further away.

Mombasa's northern shoreline is renowned for its vibrant 24-hour entertainment offers, including both family entertainment (water parks, cinemas, bowling, etc.), sports (watersports, mountain biking and gokarting), culinary offers (restaurants offering a wide range of specialties from Kenya, China, Japan, India, Italy, Germany and other countries) and nightlife (bars, pubs, clubs, discothèques, etc.).

Other local industries include an oil refinery with a capacity of 80,000 barrels a day, and a cement factory capable of producing over 1.1 million tons per year. The major intercontinental undersea telecom cables reach shore next to Mombasa, connecting the African Great Lakes to the rest of the world and supporting a fast-growing call centre business in the area. The estimated real GDP growth for Kenya in 2016 is 5.7-6.0%. This growth will be in response to the construction of a railway system from Nairobi to Mombasa which will aid in trade and transportation between Kenya’s two major cities.

Mombasa will become a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in which certain industries such as tea, garments, and footwear will be exempt from certain taxes to promote domestic growth. This is in response to the deficiencies in Export Processing Zones (EPZ).

The Kenyan Dock Worker’s Union is situated in Mombasa and has roughly 5,000 members.

President Kenyatta has made it a priority to deepen economic ties with Asia at the onset of his presidency. Japan has played a role in financially sponsoring the expansion of the Mombasa port in phase one and two of the expansion project.

At 44%, the rate of youth unemployment in Mombasa is more than double the national average of 21% (2016).

Climate

Mombasa has a tropical wet and dry climate (Köppen: As). The amount of rainfall essentially depends on the season. The rainiest months are April and May, while rainfall is minimal between January and February.

As a sea port, Mombasa is subject to detrimental consequences of a fluctuating climate. In October 2006, Mombasa experienced a large flood that affected 60,000 people.

Costal erosion has become a problem for Mombasa infrastructure. Due to rising sea levels, the coastline has been eroding at 2.5–20 cm per year. This has increased the number of annual floods.


Air Transport

Moi International Airport serves the city of Mombasa. It is located in Port Reitz area, also known locally as Chaani area on the mainland metropolitan area. Flights to Nairobi and other Kenyan, European and Middle Eastern destinations depart from the airport. Besides Mombasa and Nairobi is well connected by chartered flights operated via Wilson airport.

Train Transport
Mombasa has a railway station. Kenya Railways operates overnight passenger trains from Mombasa to Nairobi, though the service is less extensive than it used to be.

Road Transport

Driving in Mombasa is straightforward and the majority of the roads are tarmacked. Main roads include Jomo Kenyatta Avenue, Digo Road, Nyerere Road, Nkurumah Road, Moi Avenue, Mama Ngina Drive, Barack Obama Road, Nairobi Highway and Nyali Road.

Highways connect Mombasa to Nairobi, Dar es Salaam while northward road link to Malindi and Lamu, which also extends towards the border with Somalia.

Within Mombasa, most local people use matatus or mini-buses which are extremely common in Kenya, to move around the city and its suburbs. The tuk-tuk—a motor vehicle with three wheels—is widely used as transport around the city and its suburbs. No more than three passengers may be carried. A boda-boda is originally a bicycle taxi but now a motor cycle taxi. Especially in cities, the bicycles are more and more replaced by motorbikes.

Sea Transport

Mombasa's port is the largest in Kenya, with 19 deep water berths with two additional berths nearing completion and two oil terminals.Rail connects the port to the interior.There is little or no scheduled passenger service. International cruise ships frequent the port.

Ferry Transport
There is no bridge between Mombasa Island and south coast, instead the distance is served by ferries operated by the Kenya Ferry Service from Kilindini and Mtongwe to Likoni in the south coast of Mombasa. In 1994, a ferry serving Mtongwe route sank and 270 or more perished.

As a result of the major build-up of more luxurious hotels in South Coast and a lack of a direct bridge linking the South Coast to the North Coast, visiting tourists have the option of flying directly into the South Coast airstrip using the domestic airline, Air Kenya.

Tourism

Mombasa is Kenya's main tourist destination. It is located on the Eastern coastline of Kenya bordering the Indian Ocean which has made it a popular destination for its beaches. Mombasa offers diverse marine life, world-class hotels and a friendly atmosphere. There is a tropical climate all year; it is a great destination filled with activities for all ages.

Mombasa is a Swahili founded and ruled city. It was founded between the 1st and 5th century. At certain times it was occupied by the Portuguese, Arabs and British and originated back in the 16th century. Mombasa's culture today still exhibits that of its past. Historical ruins like Forte Jesus de Mombaça (Fort Jesus), an historic Portugese fort, and the Old Town are attractions influenced by Mombasa's trade culture, with many examples of Portuguese and Islamic architecture

Entering Mombasa

By Air
The airport in Mombasa has been newly renovated and has increased the frequency of flights in and out of Mombasa from European cities. Kenya Airways offers the most as far as options for traveling to/from Mombasa.

By train
Train service is mainly provided between Nairobi and Mombasa. The advantage of traveling by railway is the ability to see wildlife up close. The train ride from Nairobi to Mombasa is estimated at 13 hours. There are meal accommodations and options of purchasing first or second class seats.

By Coach
Buses, while not a major mode of transportation within the city, are mostly used for traveling outside the city. The major provider of transportation in Mombasa is Matatu; the fleet consists mostly of fourteen-seater minibuses. Matatu is quite popular with the residents.

Touring
By taxi from center: to south beaches ; ca 30-35 dollar. To airport:10-12 dollar Matatu (minibus) in city Ksh 50 (0,65)

Travel by the local bus-taxis (Matatus)-they are mini-buses that are usually full of people to maximum capacity. They're cheap. The name derives from a Swahili term that refers to 'ma'penny - the original matatu cost three cents many years ago. They are all over and in huge numbers, and they're licensed stickers on the windshields. They are privately owned mini-buses regulated by the government. They are subject to extensive regulatory controls; a driver and bus can be pulled for the driver wearing a loud shirt. Taxis don't have taxi-signs on the roof, but license papers stuck to the windshields.

One can also travel using auto rickshaw's locally called tuk-tuks, which are three wheeled private taxis. They cost about the same as Matatus. Moving from one part to the city to another is quick with these "bikes". Ideally use them for distances below 20km as they can be noisy. On the plus side they are quite airy and allow you to take in the scenary as you go by.

Visit
Bombolulu Workshops. Bombolulu Workshops was founded in 1969 and is a project of the Association for the Physically Disabled in Kenya (APDK). This center is a popular attraction for tourists and has 150 disabled employees who create jewelry, textiles, wood and leather crafts. It is the largest rehabilitation center in Kenya.

Hindu Temples. Attributes to Mombasa cultural diversity. Tourist/visitors are able to go inside the Temple accompanied by a guide from the Temple. Inside you will be able to see artifacts, idols and cultural pictures/paintings.

Mombasa Tusks. On Moi Avenue. The tusks were built in 1956 to celebrate Princess Margaret's visit to Mombasa town. They are located at the entrance to the city; they are not made of ivory as is sometimes thought, but of aluminum. An interesting thing to note is that the tusks form dual archways over each side of the road creating the shape in entirety of an 'M' for Mombasa or Margaret!

Old Town. Located around Ft. Jesus, this historic district has mostly been converted into souvenir shops and restaurants. A nice place to explore on a Sunday when much of the city is closed down.

Colobus Trust nature walks and conservation volunteering at Diani Beach.

Mtwapa Creek is a place to visit on Mombasa's North Coast. An Indian Ocean inlet with some small marinas and beautiful tropical vegetation. Very famous for bird watching, mountain bike tours around the creek, and starting point for deep sea fishing trips. Mtwapa is also famous in Mombasa for its clubs and active nightlife. To get here from the city center, take a matatu from Digo road.

Nyali Theatre featuring Hollywood and Bollywood new releases (500 KSH), with bowling alley, casino, and Italian Restaurant. Have some Indian bhelpuri, a type of chaat (hot puffed rice, vegetables and tangy tamarind sauce) while you're there. Taxi from centre - 800 KSH, Tuk Tuk- 300 KSH. Matatus plying the Mkomani or Nyali routes - 30 ksh (Ask to alight at "Cinemax").

Kinazini Funzi Dhow Safaris, (1 hr south of Mombasa off main Tanzania Rd, bus transport from all beach hotels included), Every day.

Funzi Island via Dhow a traditional Arab sailing ship), explore Ramisi River Mangroves by canoe for crocs and lots of bird life up close, bathe on a magical sandbank in the Indian Ocean, feast on a lobster and seafood BBQ on Robinson Crusoe Island. $105.

Haller Park (Bamburi Nature Trail), East Side of Links Road just North of Nyali (North on Links Road to Nyali. Look for entrance on left or ask a local). 8:30 - 5:30. Small zoo that feels like a park. Animals include giraffes, hippos , monkeys, and a reptile house. Guides speak English, Spanish, French and other languages. Watch out for the monkeys. They are numerous and appear friendly but do occasionally bite. 1400.

Avicennia Island, info@kayakingkenya.com For South Coast adventures, Avicennia Island is unbeatable. Kayak silently through submerged mangrove forests; swim & sunbathe in the emerald waters of the Funzi Sandbar, enjoy a sumptuous seafood barbeque meal served at a delightful wooden banda (open structure, beach house, or shelter, sheltered from the elements). $90.

Go-Kart, (Shanzu, near Haller Park),Mombasa's motor sport arena – a place to chill with your friends and thrill with your kids. Whether you’re a budding Schumacher or a first-time driver, Mombasa Go-Karting has the experience and technical know-how to put you on the right track.There is a viewing veranda located in the bar and you can order food from the bar whilst you are watching the action on the track.

Shimba Hills National Park: the approximately 30km south of Mombasa situated National Park is mountainous with lush tropical vegetation. This makes it particularly attractive as most other well-known national parks of Kenya have steppe-like vegetation. The main attractions include the elephant habitat, the stocks of antelopes, the waterfall, the Mwaluganje forest and the many vantage points of the fabulous landscape.

Enjoy the famous night life of Mombasa. The night life and entertainment in Mombasa is broad and offers something for every taste. Many bars, pubs and nightclubs in many price ranges offer something for every taste and budget. From local bars to exclusive lounge bar, everything is available.

In the city center there are numerous coffee shops, small pubs and bars as well as some small to medium sized clubs. Nightlife "special kind" is mainly found in the village Mtwapa, north of Mombasa. Its called "the village that never sleeps".
Beaches of the North Coast

English point: Tiny sandy beach at Mkomani with view over the old town. Its a nice place to go but less for swimming than to enjoy the view.

Nyali Beaches: nice sandy beaches but due to the close distance to the town the water quality is poor and polluted. Its nice to walk along the shore when when you get tired of the hotel pools.

Bamburi Beach: Very nice beach with white sand and palm trees. Water quality is much better than at Nyali beach. Restaurants along the beach invite to sit under palm trees drinking a cold beer while watching people pass by. Due to the closeness to the town the beach is overcrowded on weekends or holidays.

Shanzu Beach: Very nice beach with white sand and palm trees. Less crowded than Bamburi beach.
Beaches of the South Coast

Tiwi Beach is a place to visit on Mombasa's South Coast. Quiet beach not spoiled by mass tourism. At low tide, you can swim in a tidal pool where tropical fish are trapped until the next tide comes in. Be careful to avoid the many sea urchins. Though there are relatively few people, there is a small cafe serving food and drinks.

To get to Tiwi from Mombasa, take the Likona ferry to the south by taxi (ca $ 50,00) from Mombasa city center. Alternatively, take public transportation from the city center by catching a matatu on Digo Road across from the post office. The matatu route is aptly named "Ferry" and the matatu touts will be happy to point out the correct vehicle.

The matatu drops passengers just outside the ferry, which is free for pedestrians. Take a another matatu going to Diani, but alight early at "Tiwi Spot". Hire one of the many motorbikes plying the main road to carry you the relatively short distance to the beach, since muggings have previously occurred on this stretch of road.

Diani Beach is the place to go. A fantastic long white beach with loads of watersports and primates to see. A night at '40 Thieves' beach bar is a great place to hang out with a few tuskers (beers). If you want to see one of the six primate species in South Coast Kenya visit the Colobus Trust, dedicated to primate rescue, research and conservation, for an informative walk and you may spot one of the many wild primates.

Shopping
Kenya Shillings is the form of currency. However Euros and USDs are accepted. $25 USD = 20 Euros = 2000 Shillings. Credit Card and Debit Card uses are ok, however it is highly suggested to alert your bank that you will be traveling and using your card. This will avoid them from thinking that your card has been stolen and fraudulent charges are being made.

Mombasa Sandals, Located in most souvenir shops and from street merchants. Hand made sandals made from leather and old tires (for the soles), these stylish shoes are a great souvenir from Mombasa. Local craftsman use colorful beads and pieces of leather to create a vast variety of shapes and decorations. No two pairs are alike. 500 ksh.

African Fabrics, Available in curio shops and markets throughout the city. Mombasa is one of the best place in Kenya to buy lesos (khangas) and kikois. Lesos are colorful printed fabrics that come in pairs and are traditionally worn by Swahili women. Kikois are typically striped or plaid and are typically worn as shawls.

Lesos are sold at around 350 ksh, while Kikois are around 500 ksh. Prices vary with quality and may be higher in areas with lots of foot traffic from tourists,notably in Mombasa Old Town outside Fort Jesus.

Dining
Mombasa is known for their diverse cuisines from Swahili, Indian, Chinese, Korean, and Italian cultures. They offer an abundance of resturants and eateries to choose from including establishments with freshly caught seafood.

Mikaye Restaurant - Fort Jesus, Sir Mbarak Hinawy Road.Mikaye is an authentic fusion restaurant. Mikaye a honorable woman in dholuo sets the guideline for the restaurant- entailing good food, admirable service, great ambience hence a formidable culinary experience. With a scenic view of Fort Jesus, the decor of the restaurant is modern with strong African influences. . The food is essentially a fusion of African food with touches of international cuisine. Biriani, Pilau , Kuku Kienyeji, Tilapia , Mataha Ksh 500.

Chinese Restaurants

Chinese Galaxy - is the most visited Chinese cuisine attraction. They offer fine dining, and a wide range of selections including house specials.

Seafood

Tamarind - On the island. It is the most popular with tourists. It overlooks Old Harbour and offers freshly caught seafood, exotic menus, nightlife and entertainment.

Variety

POA Restaurant & Grill - Tembo Entertainment Plaza on the North Coast, near the Nakumatt Nyali Shopping Centre. Large menu ranging from snacks, burgers to specialties from Germany, Italy, India, China, Thailand, as well as seafood. Open throughout the night, from 6pm to 6am.

Blue Room - which offers a self-serve cuisine ranging from 'Indian Bites' to other items like burgers, pizza, and ice cream.

Drinks
There are quite a number of good bars, pubs and Entertainment Spots in Mombasa Town and the North Coast. Night Life is very vibrant in Mombasa.

Bob's Bar, Nyali. Lively and popular bar located near Tembo. This bar and grilll is where a lot of great nights out get started.

Fontanella Beer Garden, (Moi Avenue/Digo road Junction). Relaxed atmosphere right in the middle of the city affordable meals and drinks.

Club Lambada- Mtwapa, (Mtwapa Town). 24Hrs. Located in the north coast with offering all night disco and cabaret shows food drinks and accomodation

Sheba Lounge, (City Mall Nyali). Rooftop Bar Great Music and atmosphere

Tulia House and Camp, Off links road, Nyali, Mombasa. Based in the heart of the entertainment area of Nyali in Mombasa, Tulia House and Camp offers a range of accommodation to suit every individual and every budget.

Mikaye Restaurant Nyali, Links Road Nyali (First roundabout from the Shell Petrol Station Nyali), 7am -1am. The best Whisky Roof Top Bar in Mombasa. Mature Clientele great for a romantic evening or a night out with friends. Ksh 500.

Accomodation

There are many accommodations to choose from when visiting Mombasa.

Budget
Tulia Backpackers, Mombasa Nyali, Tulia Backpackers has become the best alternative for Backpackers coming to the Kenyan Coast.

Karama hotel. 1000KSH inc. breakfast. Mwembe Tayari Rd. nr Coast bus office....its on google maps. clean, quiet.

Mid-range

Lambada Holiday Resort at Mtwapa Creek, on Mombasa's north coast. The resort consists of 60 spacious rooms, entertainment area, restaurant, hair salon, health bar, swimming pool, sports bar and modern conference facilities. Rates from $25 low season-$50 high season per person/night.

Villa Annchen,at Mtwapa Creek, on Mombasa's north coast. Very private atmosphere and huge natural stone pool. 4 guest room with king size beds and en suite bathrooms. Rates from $40 low season-$80 high season per person/night.

Hotel Sapphireat $20 per person you can stay at this hotel which offers 110 rooms and suites, catering providing food from various traditions and cultures, health club and gym.

Sun N Sand Beach Cluball inclusive resort providing accommodations for 298 guest rooms, Health Club, Pool, nightlife, and various activities. This resort is also children friendly.

Royal Reserve Safari and Beach Club offers accommodations for all, including RCI timeshare members. The resort is right off the coast with enjoyable nightlife, multiple restaurant selection with diverse cuisines, gym, pools, and friendly staff.

Safety
Several countries have issued warnings that the city centre is not safe during the night, that car-jacking is widespread and that robberies after sunset at the beaches can occur. Use common sense and a healthy dose of skepticism regarding your surroundings.

Health
For precaution don't drink tap water and be carefull with ice cubes. Its always wise to follow the old british role for the tropics:"Peel it, cook it or forget it". Mombasa has 3 major well equipped private hospitals with high standards: the Aga Khan Hospital, the Pandhia Memorial Hospital and the Mombasa Hospital. Many smaller hospitals and clinics are spread out all over Mombasa and the North Coast.

Moving Out
Transport to get out of Mombasa include regional flights and Bus coaches. Apart from Mombasa beaches, other tourist destinations in East Africa are Tanzania Game parks and beach resorts in Mombasa Island. Tanzania game parks are rich in wildlife species and beauty scenery on its wilderness savanna. This game parks are National parks,game reserves and conservation areas.

Some famous National parks are Serengeti,Tarangire,Lake Manyara,mount Kilimanjaro,Ruaha, Selous game reserve,mikumi and Ngorongoro conservation area.These are among wildlife safari destinations recommended in Africa. Mountain climbing,walking safaris, bird watching and photographic safaris.

Get out of Mombasa is through bus transport and regional flights. Bus from Mombasa to Moshi Tanzania and Arusha are available and organized.

Get out of Mombasa by flight is through Kenya airways,Precision Air and Regional Air. Booking flight tickets is easier and flight tickets are also cheap.

Most wildlife safaris are organized in Arusha and begin in Arusha city while Mount kilimanjaro climbing trips begin in Moshi, Tanzania. Moshi is a tourist town located at Kilimanjaro slopes and kilimanjaro trekking adventures begin here.

After enjoying Mombasa beach holidays, some travelers want to experience to climb highest mountain in Africa with 5 ecological climatic zones.