Kenya Earthstrong

A memorable Earthday in Kenya amongst the Swahili community, visiting historical landmarks, safari adventure, walking through the old town, smelling aromatic spices, adventurous boat ride, to spa treatments and relaxing on the soft sanded beach. I started my holiday amongst the city lights in Nairobi and ended up in the coastal town of Diani. 

About – The republic of Kenya is named after Mount Kenya or Kirinyaga or Kerenyaga called by the Kikuyu people – meaning the ‘Mountain of Whiteness’. The capital Nairobi (Nyrobi) meaning ‘the place of  cool waters’ in Maa language. It is the business hub of Kenya. Known to be the highest city in East Africa with a population of 55mil (2023), over 40 ethnic groups, official language Swahili with 60 languages. Gained independence on December 12^th, 1963 when Jomo Kenyatta became the first president in 1964.

Nairobi National Park – Only a few mins drive from the city landscape situates a National Park. The park was established in 1946 with 117 sq kilo.

Open top vehicle drive through the rough roads of the park to get the best scenic views. On this day we captured views of wildlife such as birds, antelop, ostrich, monkeys, zebras, birds. Umm I don’t like Giraffe. The lazy looking endangered black rhinos that wobbled passed our vehicle. All in one section – crocodiles, hippos and birds. 

Earthday Celebrations took place as a spa day and cave dinner.
I took advantage of the Spa treatments at the hotel. Citrus scrub and hot stone massage. After a few hours I was feeling fresh, rejuvenated and relaxed.

In the evening had lunch at Ali Barbour restaurant inside a cave. It was a pleasure to be serenaded by the waiters singing happy birthday in Swahili.

Mombasa – A day out in the town of Mombasa driving through streets such as Kwame Nkrumah street. The buildings are painted a blue colour – which symbolises the Indian Ocean and white which symbolises peace. The elephant tusks on the roadside were installed in 1950’s as a monument to commemorate visits by the British royal family. Beside this landmark was an open field called Freedom park. 

I took a stroll through the old town of Mombasa, seeing the colonial buildings. The first post office, police station, African Hotel. Artisans and cooperatives set up for local people. Weaving and bag making. 

Akamba Craft Market – Akamba handicraft cooperative industry is in Mambasa. A big wooded compound and open aired artisan work area. Rows of walkways to watch the artists create intricate and stunning artware.  Very good quality artwork using ebony, neem or oak wood and basic tools to carve animals, masks, bowls, furniture, utensils, figurine, decorations and carvings.

Inside the shop showcased the finished artisans work for purchase. Each item has the artists unique number and competitive price – the information is noted in their art books. At each purchase the cashier records the information, whereby the trader receives 80% and shop 20% from sales. I purchased a few item,

Spice Market – In the heart of Mombasa city centre is the famous Spice Market, where the aromas hit you before the entrance. Friendly traders are side by side showcasing an array of spices, herbs, exotic fruit, nuts, dried fruit, coffee, tea, vegetables and haggling you to buy. There is an abundance of cashew  nuts and baobab fruit covered in colouring.  A trader selling cooking ingredients explained some of the spice blends and cooking methods which I purchased lemon pepper and pilau spice. 

 

Wassini Island –A trip to Wassini island is a must ‘Things to do in Kenya’. Wassini island is situated southeast in the Indian Ocean and inhabited by the Wavumba people.  From mainland Shimoni you board a boat to sail across the ocean for about 2hrs with coastal views over the coral gardens full of tropical fish, dolphins and mangroves. A chance to swim and snorkel is optional.  On arrival to the island shoreline is a restaurant serving fresh fish/meat, coconut rice vegetables, fruit and local juice.  

On the Shimoni mainland are caves where enslaved African were kept during the East Africa enslavement trade and sent to Zanziba and other nearby countries.

The Maasai community  is a distinctive ethnic group living in Southern Kenya and Northern Tanzania. They have preserved their custom, tradition and lifestyle  in cattle and goat heardlers. From a young age boys are trained to hunt and protect the family. Identified by beaded jewellery, Maa language and the red clothing which also believed to ward off wild animals. Adamu is a jumping dance, demonstrating strength, as the men jump very high. Tradition is passed down to generation through stories, song and folklore. 

Only 7 days in Kenya, in 3 different towns was enough to convince me I need to return to explore more townships especially the village and Maasai culture.

Bless Sister E
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