Kenya beach resort on Manda Island

Environment

Most of the residents on Manda do not have a boat, there is nothing on Manda apart form their homes and our business so we provide a free ferry service to Manda residents. Locals get a discount in the restaurant, if they need coal, paraffin, water, milk etc we always give it to them. We also have a volleyball net up on the beach where the locals come every evening and play, they really like it when guests join in too. There are various projects on Lamu island which we have contributed funds to such as the local school fund. I have recently built a small school for my daughter and hope it can grow and educate more kids in the area.

In addition:

There is no fresh water on Manda Island, the used water from showers and sinks is all re-used on the garden.
Fruit and veg waste is given to the donkeys, we burn paper, use bottles that can be returned to wholesalers.
All buildings are locally designed and natural local materials so we blend into the landscape.

We buy all produce from the local market and shops, all fish from local fisherman.
We offer cooking lessons and give the profit to our chef.
We arrange walking excursions and give all money to the two local brothers who know the island best.

Community

As there are no cars on the island transport is by boat and we encourage guests to use local boat providers for short "taxi" trips and longer day trips sailing and snorkeling. We suggest local guides and cafes in Lamu town.

We have 15 staff from the local area and we provide good salaries, food and accommodation and pay service charge. Some staff have training which we highly encourage.

100% of our furniture and building materials are made in the area and I encourage guests to buy local products.