Jacaranda Plus issue2

ISSUE TWO I 2013-14 I www.jacarandahotels.com

Day of pampering

SPA TREATMENTS CAN DO WONDERS FOR SELF-ESTEEM

FOREWORD

More reasons than eVer to enJoY Your staY With us W

elcome to the second edition of

to upgrade our existing

Jacaranda Plus – the corporate

products with new features

and in-room magazine of the Jacaranda

and services.

group. at Jacaranda Hotel Nairobi

I BElIEvE WE HavE a REPUTaTION FOR FIRST-RaTE SERvICE aND THIS IS a REPUTaTION I WaNT TO RETaIN aND ENHaNCE

The Jacaranda group comprises three

we are refurbishing the

hotels: our signature Jacaranda Hotel in

lobby, restyling the kitchen

Nairobi with its separate gym and spa; the

and introducing a new coffee

delightful Indian Ocean Beach Resort in

bar. at the same time we are

Diani on Mombasa’s south coast; and the

upgrading one wing of the hotel, installing

We are also embarking on a rebranding

colonial-style lake Elementaita lodge in the

air conditioning, fitting double-glazed

exercise for the group.

great Rift valley.

windows and improving the soft furnishing.

So, welcome to Jacaranda Hotels. We will

Our group also has non-hotel, but related, interests, such as our popular Pizza garden,

stYLish

opposite the Jacaranda Hotel Nairobi, and

across the road at Pizza garden we are

what was Kiambu’s village Inn.

updating the restaurant to make it more

do everything possible to make sure you enjoy your stay with us.

stylish and give it a more contemporary look.

first-rate

The village Inn closed in mid-2013 in order

James Chege

I believe we have a reputation for first-rate

to pave the way for construction of a state-

service and this is a reputation I want to

of-the-art four-star hotel – the first of its

Acting Managing Director and Group Sales & Marketing Manager

retain and enhance. Moreover, we continue

kind in Kiambu county.

Jacaranda Hotels Kenya

I ISSUE 02 I 1

Contents

ISSUE TWO

5

A publication of Jacaranda Hotels and designed by

Land & Marine Publications (KENYA) Ltd Suite A5, 1st floor, Ojijo Plaza Plums Lane, off Ojijo Road, Parklands PO Box 2022, Village Market 00621, Nairobi, Kenya Tel: +254 (0)20 374 1934 E-mail: kenya@landmarine.com www.landmarine.com The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the editor, or any other organisation associated with this publication. No liability can be accepted for any inaccuracies or omissions. Š2013 Land & Marine Publications (Kenya) Ltd

2 I www.jacarandahotels.com

CONTENTS

12

7

16

8 1 FOREWORD

12 Spa

5 Seafood

16 BOOK REVIEW BEYOND EXPECTATIONS

More reasons than ever to enjoy your stay with us

Come on in – the seafood’s lovely

7 Privilege Card

Bargain-priced card opens door to some great hotel deals

8 Lost and found

Forgotten ‘treasure’ that needs to be dealt with

10 HEAD CHEF SAMUEL MATEKEYA

It’s a team effort – but there’s only one master chef

Day of pampering treatment has done wonders for my self-esteem

A Kenyan for all seasons

18 Jacaranda Board Members 20 Jacaranda profiles 22 JACARANDA HOTELS INDEX

26 Jacaranda Hotel

Five-star service at a four-star price

28 Jacaranda Indian Ocean Beach Resort

Luxury beach resort with a hint of Arab antiquity

30 Lake Elementaita Lodge

Experience the special ambience of Happy Valley

32 Pizza Garden

Upmarket eatery with an authentic Italian flavour

24 Jacaranda Gym & SPA

Perfect pathway to fitness and well-being

I ISSUE 02 I 3

seafood

Come on in –

the seafood’s LoVeLY

BY PaMEla J. KaRg

A

fter a day on the beach, a safari in a marine park, or shopping for

perfect souvenirs, it’s time to kick back with a real coastal treat – seafood!

Bahari Cove at Jacaranda Indian Ocean

THIS OPEN aIR, À la CaRTE RESTaURaNT PRIDES ITSElF ON SERvINg UNIQUE aS WEll aS FaMIlIaR SEaFOOD

Beach Resort can whet the appetite of every guest with food inspired by africa, India,

at sunset, a table was prepared and dinner

The fi rst glimpse of the darkly coloured

the Middle East and Europe.

selections made: avocado salad with

lobster bisque brought some fears of

seafood, lobster bisque and Swahili-style

a disaster in the kitchen. But the fi rst

fresh fish. a glass of regional white wine

spoonful proved this was not the typical

sparkled in the glow of the table lantern.

light-coloured, creamy bisque served

MeMorabLe

elsewhere. Rather, this was hearty with

With its prime location overlooking the beach – Bahari is the Swahili word for ‘sea’ – this

“Nzuri appetite,” said the waiter.

that bit of spiciness that reminds you that you’re in Kenya.

open air, à la carte restaurant prides itself on serving unique as well as familiar seafood.

This was not the “same old” seafood

This is no small feat in Kenya, where the

one might fi nd in other countries along

seafood consumption per capita is only 3.4

the Mediterranean, Pacifi c or atlantic

kg. Yet Bahari Cove understands the desire of

coasts. Rather, this truly captured the

The main entrée, fresh fish smothered

its customers to enjoy a memorable meal.

polite, civilised yet earthy wilderness

in a regional sauce, allows diners to

that envelopes Kenya, especially along

discover what the locals already know:

its Indian Ocean coast, renowned for its

Mombasa brings all its worldly influences

white sandy beaches.

together to create its famous style. The

faMous

fleshy fish without bones was served With abundant avocados and seafood, the

along with rice and perfectly steamed

elegantly arranged salad was refreshing

vegetables. The curry-infused sauce was

and light after a hot day under the sun.

silky, yet with a hot pepper bite – a great

The dressing had just a bit of tang, yet was

introduction to how coastal chefs blend

smooth and helped blend the variety of

the best of regional spices and Kenya’s

seafood together with the avocado.

diverse foods at Bahari Cove.

I ISSUE 02 I 5

PRIvIlEgE CaRD

bargain-Priced card oPens door to soMe great hoteL deaLs o you enjoy visiting Jacaranda’s

Jacaranda Hotel in Westlands, across the

and there’s More:

various properties? Want an even

road at the Pizza garden and when using

• a 10 per cent discount on all beverages

D

better deal? Well, the Jacaranda group

the services of Jacaranda Caterers.

when dining with Jacaranda

has an exceptional offer that shouldn’t be missed: the Jacaranda Plus Privilege card.

In terms of accommodation and when

• 10 per cent off any outside catering bill

booking directly, card holders get a 15 per This privilege card has a wealth of

cent discount on published resident room

• 10 per cent off conference rates at Indian

advantages. Card holders can benefit from

rates at all Jacaranda properties as well as

Ocean Beach Resort and lake Elementaita

attractive discounts on breakfast, lunch and

20 per cent off the published half-board

lodge.

dinner in all Jacaranda group restaurants.

low season rates at Indian Ocean Beach

It can also be used in the pool area at the

Resort and lake Elementaita lodge.

other benefits: • Complimentary overnight bed-andbreakfast accommodation for two at

PriViLeges

Jacaranda Hotel, Jacaranda Indian Ocean

10 per cent beverage discounts

Beach Resort and lake Elementaita lodge.

• a complimentary birthday cake when four or more people dine at the Safari Café at Jacaranda Hotel, the Bahari Cove at Jacaranda Indian Ocean Beach Resort or lord Cole Restaurant (lake Elementaita lodge) • Complimentary use for one day and up to 10 delegates of a meeting room at Jacaranda Hotel, Indian Ocean Beach Resort or lake Elementaita lodge. and with a price tag of just KES 7,500 the Jacaranda Plus Privilege Card is a genuine bargain.

I ISSUE 02 I 7

8 I www.jacarandahotels.com

d n a t s o L d n u o f

Lost and found Left behind Cellphones and chargers are a particular problem

forgotten ‘treasure’ that needs to be deaLt With

E

ver thought about what hotels do

easy to leave a charger plugged into the wall

guest of having forgotten something.

with items left behind by departing

socket, but cell phones are such an indispen-

If there is no response, the items are

guests? it’s an interesting question and

sable part of everyday life that you would

disposed of at least one year after they

one that most guests probably never

think no guest could walk 50 metres down

were found, when staff are allowed to

think about – until they leave something

a corridor without realising he or she had

purchase by auction and the monies

behind themselves.

no link with the outside world. No doubt,

added to the charity funds for CSR.”

as technology moves forward, hotels such The forgetfulness of customers can cause

as Jacaranda can expect to see iPads and

problems – for a guest, of course, but also

tablets in their lost property stores.

for the hotel, which then has to deal with the issue, in this case Jacaranda. guests have a habit of leaving behind the

PoLicY So what is Jacaranda’s policy if a guest

Says Jacaranda’s Daniel Muchai: “Our

realises, once he or she returns home, that

policy requires that lost and found items are

an item has been left behind? Who pays

handed over by the room steward, or any

for any shipment and how is the shipment

same few items. Heading the list are cell phones and chargers, followed closely by clothes left in drawers and wardrobes, then shoes and jewellery. Even binoculars have been left.

Cell phones and chargers

gUESTS HavE a HaBIT OF lEavINg BEHIND THE SaME FEW ITEMS, a lIST EaSIlY TOPPED

BY CEllPHONES aND THEIR CHaRgERS

seem to be a particular problem for guests. It’s very

other person who found the item, to the

made? Says Daniel diplomatically: “Should

executive housekeeper or the supervisor.”

the guest recall after departure, we ask them to advise the best way for us to send the item. The cost bearer may vary from

securitY

case to case.”

The next stage in the process is explained

by Daniel: “The supervisor then records the item in their book and hands over to the security department for coding and safe keeping. The

are Jacaranda’s cleaning staff ever amazed by the absent-mindedness of guests? “very much so,” says Daniel. “Some guests even conclude the item was stolen, only to find a

items are kept in safe custody

mail when they get home informing them

by security as the front-

that they had actually forgotten the item in

of-house informs the

the safe, bed or bathroom.”

I ISSUE 02 I 9

head chef SaMUEl MaTEKEYa

it’s a teaM effort – but there’s onLY one

master chef M

any people love to cook, but there

Jacaranda+: What is your favourite dish?

is a difference between cooking

J+: How do you express your own cooking style more clearly and effectively? and

for fun and turning your passion into

Samuel Matekeya: lake victoria fresh

also unleash your creativity, intensify the

a career by becoming a chef. We take

tilapia is my favourite. Fish has a lot of

flavours, streamline techniques and still

a fascinating glimpse at the Jacaranda

nourishment.

have fun in the kitchen?

J+: How is this fish different from the seafood

SM: Enormous intelligence and

served at the Indian Ocean Beach Resort?

thoughtfulness about the way food works is

hotel restaurant and its executive chef and share his insights.

required. These include everything from the

Executive chef Samuel Matekeya has been in the industry for 25 years. He has come

SM: The fish from the lake is fresh, firm and

simple stuff, such as fruit and vegetables.

far in the last couple of decades, moving

tasty. By comparison, fish at the coast is too

High skills and inventive cooking can turn a

from an unseen figure in the kitchen to a

salty.

delicious meal into an artistic presentation.

J+: Twenty-five years is some

J+: What is it like to be on your feet for long

accomplishment. Do you consider yourself

hours in such a concentrated area?

culinary leader whose opinion is sought and followed.

sPotLess

successful? What steps did you take to reach where you are today?

SM: Restaurant kitchens are fast-paced and often stressful. Successful chefs have

The first sign of Samuel’s professionalism can be found in his spotless white

SM: I first considered being an engineer

to be dedicated to their craft. Putting a

attire. Years of dedication have resulted

before my brother encouraged me to join

meal together quickly and elegantly takes

in progressive ideas and techniques and a

Utalii College. I discovered my passion for

preparation and organisation. The ability

passion for cooking. With the right frame of

cooking at college and it’s a decision that I

to plan ahead helps me keep my cool in a

mind, Samuel has been able to attain this

have never regretted. after training I joined the

high-pressure kitchen environment. The

top position.

hospitality industry and realised my love for

kitchen is divided into sections where

the job. as I developed skills and furthered my

line cooks are responsible primarily for

Do we live to eat or eat to live? Samuel

education, I advanced up the culinary ladder

preparing the food, sous chefs, who are the

starts by acknowledging that everyone

and now at the Jacaranda Hotel restaurant I

head chef’s second in command. Sous chefs

deserves good food.

have been head chef for three years.

cook, help out the head chef whenever

10 I www.jacarandahotels.com

oceans of taLent Dishes are perfectly presented

needed and stand in for the head chef

classic and modern, in order to increase

important. The hotel hosts all nationalities,

during absence.

skills levels. They should also be able to

so I have developed a taste for Oriental and

refine individual styles. On-the-job training

have a sophisticated taste.

J+: good food is meant to be consumed

is important, but we also send our chefs

and appreciated with multiple senses. I

to Utalii College for refresher courses. The

J+: Your job involves a lot of responsibility

believe with mastery of food and flavour

more experience you have, the better the

and long hours. How are you able to

you evoke a variety of reactions. What is

chances of making a good start as a chef.

combine everything and still maintain your

your take on healthy living?

But an aspiring chef should be prepared to

sanity?

work hard.

SM: a harmonious meal requires

YEaRS OF DEDICaTION HavE RESUlTED IN PROgRESSIvE IDEaS aND TECHNIQUES aND a PaSSION FOR COOKINg

cooperation in the kitchen. I direct the whole process and organise staff duties. I have also established and maintain contacts with reliable vendors to secure orders. luckily for the restaurant, we have a farm where we source most products.

SM: I believe heartily in healthy cooking.

J+: How do you rank yourself in

J+: Putting it all in perspective, you have

a good chef should be able to nourish the

competition with international standard

done such a remarkable job. You are

body.

cuisines, especially when at food promotion

brilliant, influential and famous in five-star

events around the world?

restaurants. What advice do you carry

J+: You’re such an inspiration with so

forward?

much talent, knowledge and experience to

SM: Meals don’t just feed us; they

aspiring chefs. What would you recommend

are a cultural ritual that civilises us. a

SM: You need to look the part, act the part

in regard to on-the-job training?

promotional activity at an international

and have enough knowledge. The client

food exhibition is great exposure. Extensive

is the king, so it’s essential to meet their

SM: First and foremost, one should

knowledge on creating menus that focus

needs and make a visit to our restaurant

specialise in sharing techniques, both

on Oriental cuisine around the world is

both worthwhile and satisfying.

I ISSUE 02 I 11

sPa

Day of pampering TREaTMENT HaS DONE WONDERS FOR MY SElF-ESTEEM

I

t’s a friday morning in early

I have not really looked after my body

december, and this day is going to be

since the year started. I put my trust in the

different from my normal routine.

expert, Charity, who advises me to go for a de-stress package consisting of sea salt

Every once in a while we need to escape –

scrub, massage, pedicure and manicure.

but who has the time? a day at the spa is a

already, I feel like a queen who knows she is

perfect getaway. Sneak off for a day, or even

going to be spoilt.

for a few hours, and allow yourself to be pampered and soothed from head to toe.

The professionalism of the staff is seen in Charity, who is helpful and knowledgeable.

Tension, stress and weariness have been

The lounge where I’m waiting for my

building up in my body. I need to call a halt

first treatment is stylish and elegant, with

if I’m going to avoid a burnout.

tranquil colours to put you in a calm and peaceful mood.

enticing Today, I have chosen to relax and reflect on the year’s achievements and shortcomings. and my recovery plan has taken me to one of the best treatment centres: the Jacaranda Spa in Westlands.

In reception I meet Charity, head of therapy, who takes me through the spa menu.

reLaX and unWind The perfect treatment for the renewal of mind, body and soul

12 I www.jacarandahotels.com

WaY to heaLth Spa’s impressive entrance

a SPEll OF RElaXaTION CaN BE a DElIgHT TO THE SENSES. IT’S aMazINg WHaT a DIFFERENCE aN HOUR CaN MaKE TO THE RENEWal OF MIND, BODY aND SOUl I also notice the Kiswahili names given to

and I surrender my mind to the desire to

each therapy room: Tulia, meaning ‘relax’,

indulge my body.

and Pambo, meaning ‘beauty’. I’m led to the Tulia Room, with dimmed lights and

a spell of relaxation can be a delight to

subtly changing colours.

the senses. It’s amazing what a difference an hour can make to the renewal of mind,

as I embark on this spa adventure, I

body and soul.

know my skin is not in top condition.

Environmental toxins and pore-clogging impurities are just some of the day-to-day enemies that attack healthy skin.

gLoWing We start with a 30-minute sea salt glow scrub as part of the de-stress package.

Charity recommends a scrub with sea

The scrub is rubbed gently all over my

salt glow that helps the skin stay healthy,

back, hands and feet. The exfoliating body

glowing and blemish-free. She says the

treatments remove dead surface skin cells

aggressive sea salt glow is perfect for a true

to leave the skin glowing. a variety of

spa enthusiast like me.

aromatherapy including lavender is used to help detoxify the body.

losing myself in a white oversized robe, I go to the comfortable bed and lie face

This treatment is recommended for those

down. The background music is soothing

with sensitive skin. It helps the body to

I ISSUE 02 I 13

Spa

rock harmony Melting tensions away

I sit back in the customised chair as my nails receive the utmost care. I’m given a soothing massage on my hand, legs and feet using essential lavender oil. My cuticles are cured and polished. With my treatment complete, I almost float out of the door, relaxed and with my nails gorgeously painted.

Promoting rest and restoration, these treatments are highly recommended to achieve true serenity

Over a cup of herbal tea in the lounge afterwards, I have a moment to contemplate the day. My tensions have been melted away and my whole being restored. The transformation of my skin is evident; now it is smooth, radiant, brilliant and a picture of youthful glow.

eliminate toxins and restore a natural

forearms, feet and back. A special blend of

balance. After the wonderful scrub

essential oils creates a signature aroma.

serenity

Few experiences in life can compare to the

Jacaranda spa has been an inspiration to

treatment I take a shower to wash off the sea salt particles.

benefits of a professional massage. My day

change my life by embracing a spiritual and

Next, I head for the steam bath, putting a

has been transformed by this wonderful

emotional transformation. Promoting rest

towel down before I sit, which is important.

stimulation of all my systems.

and restoration, these treatments are highly

A scent of eucalyptus is infused with the steam to assist with relaxation.

recommended to achieve true serenity.

The last treatment is a pedicure and manicure designed to enhance one’s

It has made me celebrate my worth by

By this time I feel divine. It’s like stepping

natural beauty. In Jacaranda Spa, this

improving my self-image and my attitude

away from life’s havoc to find restoration.

treatment has been elevated into a

to everything. This kind of pure indulgence

After the steam my body feels incredibly

delightful ‘escape’.

is surely worth its weight in gold.

smooth and silky.

Waiting quietly to be ushered to the next session, I am not just stress-free but in a joyous mood.

stress Next comes a targeted massage for relieving the kind of stress and muscle tension we all develop working at a computer. The main focus is the neck, shoulders, arms, hands, wrists and upper body. Cathy, an expert in massage therapy, says this experience will revive my energy and improve my blood circulation.

The massage begins with a blend of essential oils on my back to relax the muscles. It is rubbed into my skin, focusing on the

I ISSUE 02 I 15

BOOK REVIEW BEYOND EXPECTATIONS

A Kenyan for all seasons BEYOND EXPECTATIONS From Charcoal to Gold

By Njenga Karume (with Prof. Mutu wa Gethoi)

N

jenga Karume is a survivor. In one

and held in Nairobi. In the ensuing trial,

knife-edge situation after another,

Karume argued so persuasively that

his resourcefulness and ability to stay

Wamuti, a long-time family friend, had

on good terms with tough people have

come to him looking for work rather than a

carried him through.Â

hiding place, that Karume was released at once and Wamuti was later given a lenient

One example from 1951, in the build-up

sentence of six months in prison or a stiff

to the Mau Mau Rebellion, illustrates his

fine. The fine was quickly paid by friends,

extraordinary gifts. When the Mau Mau

including Karume, and Wamuti was freed.

decided to target a Nairobi councillor, Review by John Tavner

Muchohi Gikonyo, who they thought was showing too much loyalty to the colonial

generous

powers, the assassination attempt was

The outstanding aspect of this episode,

bungled.

however, is that Karume became a good friend of Muchohi and his family ever

Soon afterwards, Karume, by now a

afterwards as well as remaining a good

successful young entrepreneur, was visited

friend of Wamuti. That says much for the

at home in Elburgon by two Mau Mau

generous nature of Karume.

leaders, who asked him to hide John Wamuti Muhongi. Having already taken an

I think Karume must have been born

oath of support for the Mau Mau cause,

with that rare quality known as charm.

Karume readily agreed to help. It was only

It would certainly explain how he has

later he discovered that Wamuti had been

managed to hold together the many

one of the would-be assassins.

contradictory sides of his life. Here is a man who grew up in comparative poverty

With typical resourcefulness, Karume

and with an understandably jaundiced

housed the fugitive in an abandoned

view of the wazungu (white settlers) and

bungalow deep in the forest near his home.

their treatment of African people, yet who

The authorities closed in fast, however, and

was clearly drawn to many aspects of the

both Wamuti and Karume were arrested

colonial way of life, including comfortable

16 I www.jacarandahotels.com

houses, good food and stylish clothes; a man who actively supported the Mau Mau and became a personal friend and

fearless and were the protectors

parliamentary colleague of Jomo Kenyatta,

of the community,” writes Karume. “Just

yet continued to run a successful business

the thought of them being whipped was

empire and was on good terms with

horrible.”

many important wazungu, some of whom cooperated with him on commercial

The simple truth of this statement is very

ventures; above all, a man with a rich sense

moving. It leads to some radical thoughts

of humour who would be the first to share

about just what the colonial powers of that

a laugh with a friend after using his talent

time thought they were up to. Karume

for bluff to escape from a tight corner.

doesn’t lecture the reader, however. He just

The authorities closed in fast, however, and both Wamuti and Karume were arrested and held in Nairobi Any vague notions about the idyllic ways

lays out the facts. And the gleam of hope

of colonial life in Kenya in the 1950s will

for the future is that he didn’t turn into a

be abruptly challenged by this book. For

hate-driven terrorist as a result of his early

example, Karume recalls how, as a child, he

experiences; instead, he used the positive

was appalled by the revelation that whites,

qualities of friendship and support for

and the African supervisors under them,

honest enterprise, driven along by a big,

were allowed to cane any native for any

cheerful, streetwise personality, to improve

offence. “I had always believed that my

the lot of his fellow Kenyans. Not a bad

father, uncles and adult neighbours were

legacy.

I ISSUE 02 I 17

List of

board MeMbers and biographies

Mary KiMotho M’MuKindia Mary is a dynamic international public servant with 30 years of working experience in both the public and private sectors.

She worked with ExxonMobil in Kenya and abroad for 17 years before founding the Petroleum Institute of East Africa and becoming its first general manager for four years from 1999 to 2003. She also served as managing director of the National Oil Corporation of Kenya from 2003 to 2007 before joining the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP), where she served as a diplomat until the end of 2012.

Her career has seen her in top leadership positions in the energy sector, civil society, government and, most recently, with the United Nations.

Jacaranda hotels board MeMbers Standing from left to right: Eng. Geoffrey Kamau, Albert Kigera, J.R. Njenga, James Kimondo.

Seated from left to right: Kung’u Gatabaki, M. M’Mukindia (chairman) and Grace Njenga.

18 I www.jacarandahotels.com

Mary has served as a board member in various organisations, both private and charitable, including the Housing Finance Company, Kenya Petroleum Refineries, Kenya School of Professional Studies and the Red Court Hotel.

BOARD MEMBERS

Kung’u Gatabaki

James Raymond Njenga

James Kimondo Ngata

Kung’u Gatabaki is a retired banker, having worked for 30 years for Actis/CDC (formerly the Commonwealth Development Corporation), where he acquired experience in project finance, portfolio management and corporate board business.

James Njenga, known to friends, colleagues and associates as JR, has a long and distinguished record as a senior career civil servant, ranging from Assistant Director of Agriculture, Rift Valley Province, just after independence in 1967 to Commissioner of Lands for many years. JR also served as a Commissioner of the Kenya Electoral Commission of Kenya.

James is a seasoned, versatile and respected leader in the hospitality industry. He has over 12 years experience as a successful entrepreneur, having established Gazebo Hospitality and Hornbill Enterprises, whose suite of establishments includes Fish Eagle Inn, Club Sylk and Hornbill pubs.

Kung’u is chairman of the Capital Market Authority (CMA). He also serves on various company boards including chairman of Micro Kenya, Karume Holdings and Cianda Holdings. He has been a director with several companies including the Housing Finance Company, Mumias Sugar and the Serena Group of Hotels. He also served as chairman of the Karume Group of Companies for seven years from 2006 to 2012 when the group was restructured.

JR is chairman of Pelican Insurance Brokers (K) Ltd as well as chairman of Managu Ltd, which owns and manages properties. He is also a board member of the Kiambu Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Karume Holdings Ltd and Cianda Holdings Ltd.

Before that, he had an illustrious 14-year career with the Sarova Group, working in all their major establishments. He is the managing director of Gazebo Hospitality Ltd.

JR has had a long association with the Njenga Karume Trust group of companies and has served as a director with all the Karume Group of Companies since their inception in mid 1974.

Geoffrey Mbugua Kamau

Albert Kigera

The Rev. Grace Njoki Njenga

Eng Geoffrey Mbugua Kamau is executive director and technical consultant with a leading East African project management company, Pinnacle Projects Ltd. He has been a civil engineer for 26 years and has wide experience in the construction industry, both locally and internationally.

Albert is a qualified information technology specialist and has held the positions of IT manager and group procurement manager at Jacaranda Hotels Kenya. He has business interests in the hotel and telecommunications industry.

Eng Kamau serves as a board member with Pinnacle Projects Ltd, Home Africa Ltd (where he is chairman), Liberty Homes Ltd and Karume Holdings Ltd, among others.

Albert is also a director with Pelican Insurance Brokers Ltd and Enterprise Data Freedom.

The Rev. Grace Njenga is the widow of the late Hon. Dr James Njenga Karume.

An ordained pastor of the Anglican Church of Kenya, Grace is also a businesswoman, farmer and mother. She has keen interests in large-scale farming an active member of the Kiambu community, participating in various charity activities.

Grace is also a director of Karume Holdings Ltd and Cianda Holdings Ltd.

His core areas of interest include executive management, business development, project management, strategic planning and real estate development.

I ISSUE 02 I 19

Jacaranda PROFILES

profiles

Jacaranda

Geoffrey MbuGua KaMau With over 25 years’ experience as an engineer,

including Home Afrika Ltd (developer of Migaa)

registered with the Engineers Registration

and Pinnacle Projects Ltd, affirm the pedigree

Board, Geoffrey Mbugua Kamau brings a

and wide experience he brings to Jacaranda

diverse range of talents and skills to the board

Hotels Kenya.

of directors of Jacaranda Hotels Kenya. They include project and executive management; business development; strategic planning and management; and corporate governance.

Geoffrey’s high quality academic qualifications

Among the many construction development projects in which Geoffrey has played a pivotal role, the new KCB Headquarters Building in Upperhill, Nairobi, stands out as one of his greatest achievements.

from the Eastern & Southern African Management Institute and his directorships in various companies

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GEOFFREY BRINGS A WIDE RANGE OF TALENTS TO JACARANDA HOTELS KENYA

JaMes KiMondo nGata As a seasoned and respected leader in Kenya’s

During a 25-year career, James has worked

hospitality industry, James brings his dedication

at the The Stanley Hotel and the Panafric

to professionalism, world-class best practices,

Hotel and founded Gazebo Hospitality Ltd,

good governance and corporate citizenship

which owns and manages the Fish Eagle Inn

to the board of directors of Jacaranda Hotels

in Naivasha, Club Sylk in Nairobi and three

Kenya.

Hornbill Pubs in Nairobi and Machakos.

JAMES BRINGS HIS DEDICATION TO PROFESSIONALISM TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF JACARANDA HOTELS KENYA

As an alumnus of Kenya Utalii College, James has also been trained in the finer points of hospitality management at various international education institutions including the Executive Management Hotel School in the Netherlands.

Mary KiMotho M’MuKindia Mary’s dynamism, thirst for creating new ideas

Company, Kenya Petroleum Refineries Ltd, the

and ability to motivate others to higher levels

Kenya School of Professional Studies and the

of achievement are among the skills she brings

Red Court Hotel, an affiliate of the Kenya Red

to the board of directors of Jacaranda Hotels

Cross.

Kenya.

Her talent for organisation, innovative practice

She has demonstrated her expertise in

and effective execution will be of immense

transformational leadership, management for

value to Jacaranda Hotels Kenya.

change and public administration. Mary was awarded the Moran of the Burning Spear for her role in reviving the fortunes of the National Oil Corporation of Kenya.

Mary has served as a board member in various organisations including the Housing Finance

MARY WAS AWARDED THE MORAN OF THE BURNING SPEAR

I ISSUE 02 I 21

JACARANDA HOTELS INDEX head office & central reservations Jacaranda House, 56 Muthithi Road PO Box 14287 – 00800 Nairobi, Kenya Tel: +254 (0)20 444 8713/4/5/6/7 Fax: +254 (0)20 444 5818/6159/8977 Cell: +254 (0)722 205 486/7; (0)711 089500 Email: bookings@jacarandahotels.com Email: cro@jacarandahotels.com

Jacaranda hotel nairobi PO Box 14827-00800, Nairobi, Kenya Tel: +254 (0)20 444 8713/4 Fax: +254 (0)20 444 46159/444 8977 Cell: (0)711 089000 Email: cro@jacarandahotels.com

Jacaranda GyM & spa PO Box 14827-00800, Nairobi, Kenya Tel: +254 (0)20 444 8713/4/5/6/7 Fax: +254 (0)20 444 46159/444 8977 Email: gym.spa@jacarandahotels.com

Jacaranda indian ocean beach resort PO Box 73-80400, Ukunda, Diani Beach, Kenya Tel: +254 (0)40 320 3730 Fax: +254 (0)40 320 3557 Email: infoiobc@jacarandahotels.com

laKe eleMentaita lodGe PO Box 66, Gilgil, Kenya Tel: +254 (0)50 50 836/50 648 Fax: +254 (0)50 50 836 Email: lakeelementaita@jacarandahotels.com

piZZa Garden PO Box 14827-00800, Nairobi, Kenya Tel: +254 (0)20 444 8713/4 Fax: +254 (0)20 444 46159/444 8977 Email: bookings@jacarandahotels.com

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KENYA LAKE ELEMENTAITA LODGE

PIZZA GARDEN

JACARANDA HOTEL NAIROBI including Jacaranda Gym & Spa

AFRICA

JACARANDA INDIAN OCEAN BEACH RESORT KENYA

JACARANDA GYM & SPA

I ISSUE 02 I 23

JACARANDA GYM & SPA

Perfect pathway to fitness and well-being B

The spa

The gym also has steam room and sauna

The pressures of life and the fast-paced

The spa is devoted to enhancing the overall

changing rooms as well as a clean and

corporate scene have led to an increased

well-being of its customers by offering a

spacious rest area.

focus on body fitness and general well-

variety of body treatments to encourage and

being.

enhance the renewal of mind, body and soul.

ody fitness and wellness are the two hallmarks of Jacaranda Gym & Spa.

facilities in the women’s and men’s

Personal training This combines high-density workouts and

The Jacaranda Hotel in Nairobi has come

The spa offers personalised services and

nutritional counselling with the motivation

up with the perfect answer by creating

professional treatments designed to achieve

needed to reach and maintain long-term

Jacaranda Gym & Spa, one of the best

a head-to-toe sensory revival as well as

personal goals.

health clubs in Nairobi. This spacious and

cultivating inner and body strength and

ultra-modern health club, attached to the

creating a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.

hotel, offers something different for the fitness and wellness seeker.

cardiovascular endurance, improve strength

Spa services: • Massages

Beautiful gardens There is a large heated swimming pool as well as beautiful gardens and well-kept lawns, all helping to create an inviting and relaxing atmosphere. Designed and

Every lesson is structured to build and increase flexibility.

• Body treatments

Class exercise

• Facials and foot spas

• Introductory classes, aerobics

• Manicure and pedicure

• Sport conditioning, traditional

• Body treatments.

cardio training • Dance fitness • Spinning

equipped to meet the most discerning

The gym

expectations of its customers, Jacaranda

The well-equipped gym features the latest

Gym & Spa compares very favourably with

Life Fitness equipment. Professional fitness

For the mind and body

other similar facilities in and around the

trainers and gym instructors are on hand

• Stretch and relaxation

Kenyan capital.

to assist the guests and help them to meet

• Yoga

their fitness and wellness targets, whether

• T’ai chi (an ancient mind-body exercise).

There is free underground parking for

these consist of total fitness, controlled

members and the health club has its own

weight loss, body toning or any other

entrance separate from the hotel.

special need.

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• Step and athletic training.

relaX Guests can enjoy a range of professional treatments, or simply unwind in the heated swimming pool

I ISSUE 02 I 25

five-star service at a four-star price L

ocated in the heart of prime west-

after Block Hotels sub-leased it to the

lands business district, the Jacaranda

internationally recognised hospitality brand

hotel is the perfect property for business

Sheraton Hotels.

and leisure guests in search of five-star service at an affordable four-star price.

Unfortunately, Block Hotels went into receivership in 2003 and the property

One of the longest-established and best-

changed its name to the current Jacaranda

known hotels in Nairobi, Jacaranda began

Hotel.

life in the late 1950s as a training base for staff of the Italian oil company Agip and

Between the leaseholds, the hotel under-

by the early 1960s was also doubling as a

went continuous upgrades and expansion

42-room motel.

and today the accommodation comprises 128 rooms.

The property was subsequently acquired by the late Hon. Njenga Karume in 1963 and

In order to meet the accommodation

he continued to be involved in the hotel

requirements of its many business guests,

right up to his death in 2012.

the hotel has installed 48 new business executive suites and converted one wing of

In subsequent years, the hotel was trans-

the hotel to cater for business travellers.

formed as it was leased to various local and foreign hotel operators such as Alliance

In addition, the hotel has one of the best

Hotels when its name changed to Quality

equipped and most impressive health club

Inns. It was later leased to Block Hotels in

and spa facilities in Nairobi.

1995 and its name changed to Landmark Hotel.

conferencinG

It was during this period that the hotel

The hotel has various conference facilities to

brought new quality standards and proce-

cater for the needs of its business clientele.

dures to its operations. This led to the

These include the Wariara Conference

adoption of enhanced training programmes

Centre, which can accommodate up to 250

for staff and a gradual improvement in

delegates in theatre style, and the Palm,

services and product standards at the hotel.

Acacia and Jacaranda rooms, each of which can hold 40 people. There are also two

Between 1999 and 2001 the hotel changed

boardrooms, each with a capacity of 18

its name to Sheraton Four Points Hotel

people.

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swiMMinG pool The tranquil pool is ideal for cooling off

Guest rooM Modern furnishings and crisp white linen come as standard

at a Glance Choice of 128 tastefully furnished en-suite rooms suitable for all guests.

Each room has: • Central ceiling fan • Direct-dial telephone • Satellite TV • Minibar • Electronic safe deposit • Work station area • Mosquito net on request • Tea/coffee-making facilities • 24-hour room service.

• Private bathroom and toilet en-suite • Hairdryer Facilities & activities: • Gym and spa • Heated swimming pool

I ISSUE 02 I 27

luXury beach resort with a hint of arab antiQuity T

he Jacaranda indian ocean beach

antique chandelier that was given to the

resort (Jiobr) offers guests a

sultan by British traders in exchange for

perfect holiday getaway. the resort

landing rights.

covers 29 acres and sits on one of africa’s finest stretches of beach with wonderful

The JIOBR has a tastefully designed room

ocean views.

suitable for physically challenged guests.

In addition to the amenities found in other

arabic influence

rooms, it has a walk-in shower and both

The resort opened in 1992 and is built

supports.

shower and toilet are fitted with hand

on the site of a 16th-century mosque.

This exclusive and luxurious property was

There is a four-bedroomed villa suitable for

known originally as the Indian Ocean

families.

Beach Club. Like the Nairobi-based Hotel Jacaranda, it was at that time under the management of the now-defunct Block Hotels group.

conferencinG The Wariara Convention Centre is one of the largest conference facilities on the south

The architectural style of the beach resort

coast, with a capacity of about 300 people.

has an obvious Arabic theme, underlining the rich influence of the Swahili culture that was especially strong under the former rule of the Sultan of Zanzibar and is still apparent on the Kenyan coast. The property contains various antiques and relics from the sultan’s palace. The main reception area, for instance, features an

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service Hotel guests receive attentive service

sea breeZe Guest relax by the pool, which overlooks the Indian Ocean

at a Glance The resort has 100 deluxe rooms (including 25 ocean-facing rooms), all handsomely designed and delightfully furnished in Swahili style.

Each room has: • En-suite bathroom with bath/shower and separate toilet • Minibar and tea/coffee-making facilities • Air conditioning and ceiling fan • Safes • Hairdryer • Own veranda • Smoke detectors • Room attendance and evening turndown.

Facilities & activities: • Kids’ club • Water sports • Diving • Massage & salon • Tennis • Volleyball

I ISSUE 02 I 29

eXperience the special aMbience of happy valley T

he spectacular lake elementaita

The name came from the monthly social

lodge is situated in over 100

meetings that brought together colonial

delightful acres on the banks of lake

farmers and leaders from across the Rift

elementaita. the lodge’s main building,

Valley, Nairobi and Central regions.

which contains the principal restaurant, is a relic of the colonial era. built as a farmhouse in 1916, it was originally

conferencinG

owned by the pioneer settler Galbraith

The lodge has an ideal excellent conference

lowry egerton cole.

setting in a relaxed country atmosphere.

The conference room is fully equipped to

The lodge is located just off the Nakuru-

meet the needs of conference groups and

Nairobi highway about 170 km from the

can accommodate 50 people. A secretariat

Kenyan capital.

and conference amenities are available on request

spectacular In front of the main house is a terrace overlooking neat lawns in the foreground and shimmering Lake Elementaita beyond. The lodge is in an area known somewhat infamously in colonial times as Happy Valley.

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perfect settinG Breakfast ‘al fresco’ with a beautiful view

shady retreat The terrace overlooks well-kept lawns

at a Glance The lodge has 33 rooms (11 triples and 22 twins).

Each room has: • A fireplace • Bath and shower • Own veranda Facilities & activities: • Large swimming pool • Horse riding • Nature walks • Birdwatching • Visits to Kariandusi prehistoric site

I ISSUE 02 I 31

header HEADER

eatery with an authentic italian flavour N

airobi’s pizza Garden is a popular meeting spot for local people

and visitors who appreciate good food and warm hospitality in an easy-going setting.

Built in the 1950s, Pizza Garden was originally an eating place that provided Italian meals for trainees of the Italian oil company Agip at the former Agip Motel, now the Jacaranda Hotel.

traditional Since its acquisition by Jacaranda Hotels Group, Pizza Garden has maintained its Italian tradition and is perhaps the only place in Nairobi where a truly authentic Italian pizza is made the traditional way in a coal-fired oven.

This tradition has been maintained over the years thanks to constant training and the

families. Pizza Garden also has a lively

handing down of culinary skills from the

nightclub with theme nights to cater for

former Italian pizza cooks to the restau-

fans of contemporary African music (Rumba

rant’s modern-day chefs. This explains why

Afrique) as well as rock, soul, jazz and the

the pizzas at this restaurant have a superior

latest hits and wide-screen coverage of

taste and colour.

major sports events.

Today, the Pizza Garden is a vibrant and

Apart from pizzas, other dishes can be

informal restaurant, open seven days a

ordered à la carte. The menu includes

week. It has a children’s playground that

burgers, grilled items, vegetarian dishes

makes it a popular weekend venue for

and snacks.

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italian style Mouth-watering pizzas