Sarova Spotlight - July - October 2012

JULY - OCTOBER 2012

KARURA’S PRISTINE TRANQUILLITY NATURE TRAILS TURN FROM BATTLEFIELDS TO PICNIC SITES

OURHERITAGE ALAN DONOVAN: MY STORY

ICONS

PAULA KHAHUMBU

WHAT’S COOKING

© Karue Wachira

RACK AND LOIN OF RABBIT

FOREWORD

WELCOME

J

ambo and welcome to our sixth edition of Sarova Spotlight.

Our social commitment does not stop at environmental conservation. We have in place an elaborate programme that addresses health

The 2012 safari is halfway complete – how

issues. The Sarova Health Care Programme

time flies! It has been a rewarding and exciting

focuses primarily on staff well-being. This initia-

first half of the year at Sarova Hotels, Resort &

tive was feted with 2012’s ‘Best Work Place

Game Lodges.

Practice’ Award at the second East African CSR Awards in Dar es Salaam.

In this issue, Spotlight focuses on environmental conservation as we reiterate our commitment

Meanwhile, we continue to upgrade facilities at

to strengthening sustainable business practice.

all Sarova Hotels, Resort & Game Lodges. Key

We have incorporated energy management

drivers of this mission are ongoing investment

The Migration Season is upon us! Between June

programmes in all our hotel operations. On 30

both in the physical product and in our greatest

and October, be sure to book your front-row

March this initiative resulted in Sarova Hotels,

asset, our associates. We place the highest

seat at Kenya’s most coveted safari experience.

Resort & Game Lodges scooping seven awards

premium on offering Refreshing African Hospi-

The Masai Mara National Reserve was named

at the eighth annual Energy Management Awards

tality™ commensurate with the highest levels of

one of the new Seventh Wonders of the World in

organised by Kenya Association of Manufacturers

service delivery. We have commenced major

a poll of experts conducted by ABC Television’s

(K AM).

room renovations at Sarova Whitesands Beach

‘Good Morning America’. The annual migration

Resort & Spa. Phase one, when complete, will

of over a million wildebeest from the Serengeti

We are privileged to offer guest experiences in

offer magnificent sea-facing accommodation in

plains to the Mara has been described as one of

some of the most stunning locales. This privi-

unsurpassed comfort.

the most awe-inspiring sights on earth.

lege translates into great responsibility as we endeavour to protect and preserve an ecologi-

Sarova

recently

We eagerly look forward to welcoming you at

cally sustainable way of working for the benefit

honoured with the Traveller’s Choice award by

Sarova, to explore together the next half of 2012.

of present and future generations. We continu-

TripAdvisor™ as the sixth-best hotel in Africa

As you enjoy the season’s highlights, I encourage

ally engage guests and neighbouring communities

for families. This is no mean feat for the Game

everybody to remember that a small step taken

through the Sarova Green Initiative of tree-

Camp whose luxurious tented accommodation

by each of us to conserve the environment is

planting activities.

offers the adventure and romance of a legen-

indeed a big leap towards curbing the adverse

dary Kenyan safari with no compromise on 21st

effects of global climate change. Let us all work

In March we joined the global Earth Hour

century comforts. Indeed, it is guest experiences

towards reducing our carbon footprint on Earth.

campaign to preserve and protect the planet.

that resulted in TripAdvisor awarding five Sarova

We launched a social media campaign in which

properties the prestigious TripAdvisor Certifi-

On behalf of Sarova family, I wish you a pleasant

we committed to plant a tree for every new ‘like’

cate of Excellence. These are the Sarova Stanley,

stay with us. Karibu!

on our Facebook fan page. We are delighted to

Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort & Spa, Sarova

announce that this campaign resulted in over

Shaba Game Lodge, Sarova Lion Hill Game

Jaideep S. Vohra

1,900 tree seedlings being planted.

Lodge and Sarova Mara Game Camp.

Managing director

Mara

Game

Camp

was

Sarova Hotels, Resort & Game Lodges

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

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Contents SAROVA SPOTLIGHT // JULY - OCTOBER 2012

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A publication of Sarova 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 Cell: +254 (0)722 731 003 E-mail: kenya@landmarine.com www.landmarine.com

Photo credits: Sarova Hotels, Denis Gathanju, Shutterstock, Karue Wachira 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.

Š2012 Land & Marine Publications (Kenya) Ltd

CONTENTS

28 14

20 COVER STORY

4 OUT&ABOUT

Pristine tranquillity found at Karura

24 10 Sarova News 12 Green Energy

Kenya finds green answers to power challenge

18 Team Building

Friendly fire fosters good staff relations

22 Migration

Amazing sights Catch the migration from a hot-air balloon

26 OurHeritage

Alan Donovan - My story

32 GivingBack

Sarova marks Earth Hour in style with green initiatives

36 ICONS

Paula Kahumbu

34 40 Shaba Survivor

Can you outlast and outwit them?

44 Faces of Sarova

James Ole Tira

46 Arts & Music

A potter’s touch

50 E-Hospitality

Sarova uses ‘E power’ to enhance guest experience

52 Sarova Hotels & Lodges Index 62 Sarova Zawadi

Zawadi – a world blossoming with rewards

64 What’s cooking

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

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© Karue Wachira

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SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

OUT&ABOUT: Karura Forest

Pristine tranquillity found at

a r u Kar

Nature trails turn from battlefields to picnic sites

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OUT&ABOUT: Karura Forest

D

riving north out of the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD) and onto the new Expressway, the refreshing air gradually experienced is impossible to forego.

Punches and kicks would fly both directions. The environmentalists would be unceremoniously clobbered and tear-gassed. Yet they rebelliously stood their ground to protest and hinder forest excision and development of new upmarket resi-

the peace and serenity of the forest engulf you like a blanket

dential houses. They were ready to lay down their With the concrete jungle of Kenya’s capital

lives for the sake of future generations. As city

behind us, we exit the expressway just after the

developers hungered for the pristine lands, the

by the Kenya Forest Service, which works closely

Numeric Machining Complex and, behold, a

protesters stared them in the eye and said No.

with the Friends of Karura.

quillity is so calming that it’s hard to believe we

Today, thanks to the selfless efforts of people like

When you walk the forest nature trails, the noise

are still in Nairobi. Welcome to Karura Forest.

Professor Maathai, my children and yours can play

and bustle of the Kenyan capital vanish into thin

blissfully in the wide-open green spaces of Karura

air as the peace and serenity of the forest engulf

Scene of conflict

Forest. The melodious sounds of a small stream

you like a blanket. There are signposts to guide

can now be enjoyed by our children. They can

visitors to the most interesting places in the forest

Just a few years ago, the very grounds of this rich and

chase colourful butterflies in open fields, just like

and to provide useful information about the

welcoming nature trail were a battleground pitting

we did many years ago. Is this not amazing?

natural environment.

Ideal weekend getaway

The forest is ringed by an electric fence that

the environmentalists on one side and the heavily

The nature trails within Karura Forest are ideal

is manned by a team of forest guards and G4S

armed security forces on the other would quickly

for a weekend getaway for those living in or

guards. This is not only to ensure the safety and

degenerate into a physical confrontation.

visiting the Nairobi area. The forest is managed

security of nature lovers walking the trails, but also

clean, green world welcomes us. Its natural tran-

Mama Miti, as the late Professor Wangari Maathai was fondly known, against security forces clad in riot gear. The war of words exchanged between

borders the neighbouring housing estates and

to deter loggers and illegal private developers.

As we follow a narrow footpath and enjoy the fresh air, we come across a signpost to the Karura Forest Caves and Waterfalls. There is a flight of rock-hewn steps leading to these dark caves, said to have been home to members of the Mau Mau who rebelled against British colonial rule. It is said that Kenya’s founding father, President Jomo Kenyatta, also sought refuge in these caves.

As well as acting as a hideout for Mau Mau, the caves were used as places of worship and ritual by the local Kikuyu people. Visitors to these caves should exercise caution, however, because according to the rangers they are a favourite hideout for large reptiles © Karue Wachira

such as cobras and pythons.

A stone’s throw from the Karura Caves we are greeted by the sight of the wondrous Karura Falls. The splashing of the water as it plummets

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SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

© Karue Wachira

Main picture: The Karura Falls Below left: Nature at work

A stone’s throw from the K arura Caves we are greeted by the sight of the wondrous K arura Falls

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

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Š Karue Wachira

K arura Forest was gazetted in 1932 by the colonial government

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SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

OUT&ABOUT: Karura Forest

a favourite picnic site for many Nairobians. The

surreal. It reminds me of my formative years in

green carpet of grass around the lake makes it a

a village on the edge of the Aberdare Forest. To

wonderful place in which to sit and enjoy the view.

© Karue Wachira

50 ft to the rocky bottom makes the experience

experience such a sight within the boundaries of one of Africa’s biggest cities is even more enthral-

The lake gets its name from the huge number

ling. Can this really be Nairobi?

of water lilies that grow there. There is also an abundance of aquatic birds, including ducks, to

This is the Karura River, which has its source in

complete a perfect picture.

the Limuru Escarpment. The Karura is part of a network of at least four rivers that meander

It is very pleasant to sit down, take a break and

through the forest, along with the Getathuru,

enjoy a light meal of sandwiches and fruit juice.

Ruaka and Thigiri. The rivers then join up to form

Does it not feel good to be so close to the city,

the Nairobi River.

yet so far away?

fuel for wood-burning locomotives

Before heading back to the city, I sit in silence

Karura Forest was gazetted in 1932 by the

have a place such as this to escape to in search

colonial government, making it one of the earliest

of solace, calmness and peace? Would this have

forests to be gazetted in Kenya. It consists of two

been possible if the property developers had had

blocks, Karura and Sigiria. Covering about 2,

their way?

and wonder what might have become of this tranquil setting. Would the fast-paced Nairobian

500 acres, the forest is the largest of the three main gazetted forest lands – Karura, Ngong and Ololua – within the Nairobi metropolitan area.

majestic waterfalls I think that million-dollar mansions would have

By declaring it forest land, the British had identified

replaced the huge trees that form the forest

Karura as a favourable area with a suitable climate

canopy. And what would have become of the

for growing eucalyptus trees in order to provide

majestic waterfalls? Probably they could have been

fuel for wood-burning steam locomotives on the

turned into a man-made fountain at the entrance

Kenya-Uganda Railway. Today, the huge trees grow

to an office park. And what would have become

Above: Peaceful setting

side by side with various species of indigenous trees

of the 50 km network of footpaths through the

Far left: A haven for butterflies

including the mukinduri (Croton Megalocarpus) and

forest grounds? That’s easy. They would have

munderendu (Vepris Simplicifolia).

been turned into driveways for fuel-guzzling SUVs and sleek sports cars

Various animal species have made their home

parked

under the cover of the forest canopy. There

garages of the rich and

outside

the

is a host of resident animals including a variety

mighty.

of snakes, bushbucks, squirrels, white-ringed monkeys and bush pigs. Well over 100 species of

I look in the rear-view

birds have been recorded in the forest and bird

mirror as we leave the

lovers can see everything from Ayres’s hawks to

forest and say a big

owls, turacos, vultures and weavers.

thank-you to Professor

bird lovers can see everything from Ayres’s hawks to owls, turacos, vultures and weavers

Maathai and the many other environmental activOn the other side of Karura is what I consider one

ists who put their lives on the line to save this

of the most beautiful spots in the forest, Lily Lake,

treasure. Surely, their actions were never in vain.

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WINE REVIEW SPRINGFIELD ESTATE, THE WORK OF TIME (VINTAGE- 2004) (red) The Germans have landed. Actually, they have for a while now, at least if you take time to look at the success trajectory of their wines. You will notice an interesting and gradual arc since the tail end of the past century.

Enter, Blue Nun, Gold Edition, a glitzy bottled sparkling white that comes with 22-carat gold flakes to highlight its natural effervescence and also appeal to the more highbrow market. You will find the flavour all rounded, light and somewhat thin on the taste buds – more modern, a bit more refreshing and a tad drier.

Blue Nun is the oldest German brand, created in 1921, and between 1950s and 1980s Blue Nun it was regarded largely as a wine to be drunk throughout a meal. But if you want to get the best of this bottle, you are advised to have with light meals and hors d’oeuvres.

So, next time you are having a celebration, or maybe you just want to toast something significant, this is your best gamble. It fits those golden moments.

BLUE NUN, GOLD EDITION (white)

SAROVA nEWS AWARD RECOGNISES ‘KENyA’S BEST FAMILy HOTEL’ Sarova Mara Game Camp has been voted best hotel for families in Kenya – and sixth in Africa – by TripAdvisor in its 2012 Travelers’ Choice awards.

The annual Travelers’ Choice awards pay tribute to the world’s best hotels, earning their distinction from those who know them best – real travellers.

The awards are based on millions of valuable reviews and opinions from travellers around the world.

“With the help of millions of travellers around the globe, TripAdvisor is thrilled to recognise the world’s most outstanding hotels with the Travelers’ Choice Awards,” said Christine Petersen, president, TripAdvisor for Business. “Recognising the best of the best based on traveller feedback and reviews, value and quality are the hallmarks of our Travelers’ Choice winners.”

For the complete 2012 Travelers’ Choice list, go to: www.tripadvisor.com/travelerschoice

CERTIFICATES OF EXCELLENCE FROM TRIPADVISOR

It’s the smell that will first brace you for this wine: deep and concentrated. A bit like taking a lungful of grapes soaked in smoke (a good thing).

Sarova Hotels, Resort & Game Lodges has continued to excel in customer ratings.

Robertson, where this wine is from, is a small wine-growing district in South Africa’s Western Cape. The climate is harsh and extreme but the lime rich soil seems suitable for growing these grapes and Robertson still remains a much-acclaimed region.

This year, five of our properties – Sarova Stanley, Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort & Spa, Sarova Mara Game Camp, Sarova Shaba Game Lodge and Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge – have achieved the prestigious TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence.

Although this traditional wine is unfiltered and unfined and may deposit a sediment (requiring decanting), it’s still big on balance. It balances the crisp cassis fruit with a hint of green pepper.

It remains full, rich and vegetal and also manages to tease the taste buds to give that positive flavour intensity without the customary sharpness. And isn’t that what life is ultimately about, balance?

Supplied by MIA Wines and Spirits International Email: sales@miainternational.co.ke

The awards, which recognise good hospitality, are given only to establishments that consistently achieve outstanding traveller reviews on TripAdvisor, and are extended to qualifying businesses worldwide.

To qualify for the Certificate of Excellence, businesses must maintain an overall rating of four or higher, out of a possible five, as reviewed by travellers on TripAdvisor.

Additional criteria include the number of reviews received in the past 12 months.

SAROVA NEWS

Children’s day in the park

Jewel of the North

‘Fun in the Wild’ is the theme of the annual children’s party hosted by Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge. The party brings together children of the lodge’s staff as well as those of Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) based at Lake Nakuru National Park. This is done in partnership with the KWS, which allows free entry to the park and organises a two-hour game drive to educate the youngsters about the flora and fauna.

Sarova Shaba Game Lodge has continued to shine as the Jewel of the North. Reduced travel time as a result of the improved road infrastructure has enhanced the visitor experience for guests, who include many dignitaries travelling on business and for leisure.

Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge hosts a lunch for the children on its expansive lawns together with a programme of entertainment.

Most recently, the lodge played host to the Prime Minister of Kenya, Raila Odinga, on an official visit to the region. In conversation with the lodge’s staff, Mr Odinga revealed that he would be returning to Sarova Shaba Game Lodge with his family for a holiday.

Sarova shines at Energy Management Awards Sarova Hotels, Resort & Game Lodges scooped seven awards in various categories at the Energy Management Awards 2012.

These awards were launched eight years ago by the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) through its Centre of Energy Efficiency and Conservation in conjunction with the Ministry of Energy to promote excellence in energy management. They recognise energy efficiency measures that have been introduced successfully by Kenyan companies as well as the savings they have achieved.

Sarova Hotels won awards in the following categories: 1 Fuel Saving Energy Award (SME) – Sarova Shaba Game Lodge 2 Electrical Saving Energy Award (SME) – Sarova Taita Hills Game Lodge 3 Service Sector Award: Winner – Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort & Spa; 1st runner-up – Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge 4 Sustained High Performance Award – Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort & Spa 5 Best New Entrant (SME): Winner – Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge; 1st runner-up – Sarova Mara Game Camp.

Sarova Hotels’ continuous focus on reducing the environmental impact has been rewarded thanks to the efforts of its committed hotel energy management teams.

These teams have carried out various measures to reduce energy consumption and have found new and innovative ways to make the organisation greener.

In addition, hotel guests are made aware of green initiatives such as water and energy conservation.

Sarova health care scheme wins praise The achievements of the Sarova Hotels Healthcare Program were recognised at the 2nd Bank M East African Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Awards 2012 in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, where it came first in the Best Work Place Practice category.

The Sarova Healthcare Program is a comprehensive health care initiative aimed at promoting the well-being of the Sarova workforce. This holistic programme takes a proactive approach to reducing illness in the organisation. It also extends to some of the communities where Sarova operates in line with its mission to both staff and communities.

The Bank M CSR Awards was launched in May 2010 to celebrate excellent CSR initiatives by companies in East Africa, recognising their contribution to sustainable development. They are the first awards of their kind, celebrating excellent CSR by businesses in Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda.

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SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

GOING GREEN

to power challenge ‘T

he Future We Want’ is the theme of the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development – popularly referred to as Rio+20 – taking place in Rio de Janeiro. The forum offers world leaders an opportunity to create a new paradigm of sustainable lifestyles. Ensuring that our future needs can be met, and balancing our consumption with the environmental limits of the planet, is a collective effort that will affect all levels of society.

Across the Atlantic, President Barack Obama has emphasised the future importance of a green economy

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

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GOING GREEN

Walking the green route at Sarova Ever mindful of the need to protect the environment, the owners and managers of Sarova Hotels, Resorts & Game Lodges are continuing to follow green policies and practices with no compromise on guest comfort.

Both Sarova Mara Game Camp and Sarova Shaba Game Lodge have been awarded a Silver eco rating.

Guided by a principle of ‘recycle, reuse and reduce’, the Sarova group has focused on key areas that define environmental responsibility.

Energy conservation The Sarova group has made it everyone’s responsibility to conserve energy. All its associates are made aware of daily energy consumptions. This ensures that each Sarova associate takes a proactive measure to conserve energy in its area of operation. Energy committees monitor energy use and identify areas of conservation.

Sarova has harnessed renewable energy by installing solar water heating systems at all its game lodges and camps as well as at Sarova Panafric Apartments. This has helped to reduce electricity consumption across the group.

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SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

Another initiative has been to replace most of the incandescent bulbs with energy saving CFL (compact fluorescent lamp) or LED (lightemitting diode) lights across all properties.

Water conservation By installing reverse osmosis water purification plants at Sarova Whitesands and Sarova Shaba Game Lodge, the group has enhanced water quality and helped reduce wastage.

Environmental conservation Sarova buys environmental friendly cleaning products with a minimal effect on the environment.

It promotes the carbon sequestering initiative through reforestation, thus helping to slow global warming. Guests at Sarova Game Lodges are offered an opportunity to plant a tree to help save the ecosystem.

Solid waste management

Sarova also involves people in nearby communities in setting up nurseries and thus creating new job opportunities. It further raises awareness among the communities by setting up wildlife clubs in the schools it supports.

In line with HACCP standards, the Sarova group separates biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste and has an environmental friendly waste disposal system in place at all properties.

These initiatives are, in the words of Sarova group engineer Rabindra Poudel, ‘drops of water and grains of sand that make a mighty ocean and a beautiful land’.

It has also installed a waste water treatment plant at Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge, where recycled water is used for gardening.

Sarova Taita Hills Game Lodge now uses eco-friendly products and recycleS its waste water

Among the deliberations, delegates at Rio +20

reservoirs that store carbon-containing chemical

will be addressing a sustainable green economy

compounds – have become a clarion call that has

that protects the health of the environment.

resonated across the world.

Below: A forest conserved

In making the transition to greener economies, nations are asked to broaden the use of

In Brazil, environmentalists are on a crusade to

renewable energy sources that can significantly

save the Amazon rainforest.

lower carbon emissions as well as indoor and outdoor pollution, while promoting economic

In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which

growth. This commitment is further enforced

contains Africa’s largest rainforest, there are calls

by a draft agreement that will guide sustainable

to halt illegal logging – a significant source of

development for the next decade and beyond.

greenhouse gases.

The opening article of this agreement captures the commitment of the community of nations to “ensure the promotion of an economically,

erratic weather

socially and environmentally sustainable future

Closer to home, in East Africa, we continue to

for our planet and for present and future genera-

see erratic weather patterns that lead to crop

tions.” This is in recognition that Earth and its

failure, so that farmers are struggling to feed the

ecosystems are our home and that in order to

growing population. When you also consider

achieve a just balance among the economic,

that the snow caps of Mount Kenya and Mount

social and environmental needs of present and

Kilimanjaro are disappearing because of higher

future generations, it is necessary to promote

temperatures, you get a clearer picture of why

harmony with nature.

environmental conservation is so vital.

The concept of green economy focuses on

It is not all doom and gloom, however. Over

the intersection between environment and

the past decade or so, we have seen a sustained

economy. Globally, governments and busi-

campaign by the government and private sector

nesses have recognised the need to incorporate

aimed at protecting our forests and increasing

sustainable practices in policy development and

forest cover from two to 10 per cent of Kenya’s

everyday operations, embracing modern, more

total land mass, as recommended by the United

eco-friendly technologies. Examples of such initi-

Nations. Major corporations have responded

atives abound.

positively to this call and have contributed to

In recent years, the Kenyan

government

has been pushing for the rapid development of geothermal power

conservation initiatives such as planting trees

The rapid growth and expansion of the Kenyan

Atlantic

and fencing off forest lands in various parts of

economy has created a huge demand for elec-

the country including the Ngong Forest, the

tricity, so that government and policymakers have

Across the Atlantic, President Obama has

Aberdare Forest and Mount Kenya Forest.

had to rethink their strategy on power produc-

emphasised the future importance of a green

Conservation of forests is a major stride towards

tion, especially green power. With demand for

economy that is expected to power the United

the achievement of green economies. According

electricity growing at about 14 per cent each year

States economy to a new age.

to the United Nations, better-managed forests

and with the country’s heavy reliance on fossil

will provide a broad range of benefits. Reducing

fuel imports, Kenya is keen to develop a range of

In Asia, technology and energy companies have

deforestation by half by the end of 2030 could

renewable energy resources to augment hydro-

invested heavily in green power solutions in order

avoid an estimated US$ 3.7 trillion in climate

electricity, which produces nearly half of supply,

to generate electricity in a more eco-friendly way.

change damages from greenhouse gas emissions

and to reduce fossil fuel imports. The govern-

– and that’s not counting the value of jobs and

ment has a national renewable energy plan

In Europe, control of carbon emissions and the

income, biodiversity, clean water and medicines

calling for a minimum of 2 GW of electricity from

development of carbon sinks – natural or artificial

provided by forests.

renewable sources to be produced by 2013.

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

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GREEN ENERGY

Recently, Nairobi City Council unveiled plans

connected electrical power to meet over 20 per

to generate electricity by burning some of the

cent of the country’s electricity needs.

The northern parts of Kenya represent a

huge quantities of garbage collected in the city every day. Business corporations are also gener-

It is estimated that Kenya has the capacity to

ating green energy. The Mumias Sugar Company

generate over 2,000 MW from wind energy and

(MSC), the country’s largest sugar mill operator,

a further 3,000 MW from geothermal sources.

has ventured into green power in a big way at

The government is on its way to achieving these

its factory in western Kenya. MSC now gener-

targets by 2015, thus making Kenya the largest

ates about 35 MW from bagasse, a by-product

producer of green power in Africa and one of the

a CNN Hero for lighting up villages with his inven-

of the sugar-milling process. MSC is not only able

largest in the world.

tion, a solar-powered LED lantern. Evans is not

new frontier on the road to green energy

only giving rural families a way to replace smoky

to meet its own energy needs in this way, but is

joining forces

kerosene and firelight with solar power; he also

Development Agency (KTDA) has also ventured

And it’s not just the big corporations that are

and reduce poverty and hunger. What’s even better

into wind energy generation.

going green. In the remote villages of Olando and

is that he is providing it free.

selling its excess power to the Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen). The Kenya Tea

hopes his invention will help to improve education

Got Kaliech in Migori, the women have joined The northern parts of Kenya represent a new

forces to light up their villages, thanks to the

Such initiatives echo the aspiration of each of us –

frontier on the road to green energy. Famous

modern marvel of solar panels.

to bequeath to future generations a world where everyone can breathe clean air, drink safe water

in anthropological circles as the site of some of the earliest hominid remains, Lake Turkana is

Blessed with year-round sunshine, Kenya is more

and have enough food to sustain the emergent

to be the site of Africa’s largest wind farm. The

and more aware that it can successfully tap into one

human race.

project calls for 365 wind turbines to be built

of our greatest natural resources. In the same stride,

there, generating enough clean, renewable, grid-

a young Kenyan, Evans Wadongo, was honoured as

Below: Wind turbines dot the landscape

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

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Friendly fire fosters good staff relations

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SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

Team building

I

n a corporate world, the bottom line means everything. At the end of the day, and no matter what, the corporation wants to maximise its profits while keeping its overheads as low as possible.

Nicholas Ladu, the entertainment manager at Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort and Spa in Mombasa, says teambuilding activities have become popular not only with corporate clients but also with families and even friends grouped together under the popular chamas (saving and investment groups).

To achieve this, however, many corporations have learnt the secret of not only keeping their operational costs down, but having a highly motivated workforce.

Working together

One way to ensure a dip in profits is to have demoral-

Says Nicholas: “Teambuilding involves a series of

ized people on your staff who don’t enjoy coming to

activities, games or challenges that are put together

work and hate the office environment.

so as to help a group of people achieve their targeted goals or objectives by working together.”

Most companies are now alive to this fact and are making an effort to enhance teamwork in the workplace. While staff get-togethers and end-ofyear parties can enhance the team spirit and get workmates to interact in a social setting, teambuilding activities are quickly gaining ground as a more effective way to achieve this.

The team building progr ammes are meant to help the group come up with solutions to the issues they face in their work environment The teambuilding programmes are meant to help

Nicholas. “We have the space to handle small

the group come up with solutions to the issues

and large groups and we have a team that is

they face in their work environment, in the case

committed to making the best of such outings so

of corporate clients, or produce more cohesion

that they are not only helpful to the team but

among family members.

will also go a long way towards rejuvenating their minds and bodies.”

key component

He explains that, over the past few months,

Nicholas says teambuilding has become a key

Sarova has been revamping its teambuilding

component, especially for corporate businesses

product to make the programmes more distinc-

seeking to achieve their end-of-year targets.

tive and engaging.

However, the method behind each teambuilding

investing in props

session is dictated by a number of factors and these vary from one corporation to the other.

“We are revamping our teambuilding programmes in every respect,” says Nicholas. “We are doing this

Sarova Hotels has a special unit that caters for

not only through the revision of the activities that we

such activities.

conduct but also through investing in new props.”

Above: Teambuilding in action

“Our properties are located within environs

He adds: “We want to make every teambuilding

Top right: Let’s all work together

that are suitable for having such activities,” says

activity unique and unlike any other. We want

Left: Friend or foe?

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

19

TEAM BUILDING

to vary the programmes so that they are not

competitions or water polo in one of the five large

repetitive. The activities have to address critical

swimming pools. Moreover, the property offers

issues such as teamwork. We want them to be

teambuilding combined with a holiday. The vast

competitive, but within a friendly environment.

grounds of this 23-acre resort offer plenty of space

We want the sessions to engage both the mind

for all kinds of activities including treasure hunts.

and the body.”

The extensive beach front offers plenty of space

Product diversity; activity diversity

for activities such as beach volleyball and football.

Depending on the goals set and the number

ventional games that require a degree of physical

of people attending a teambuilding activity, the

fitness and mental stamina. The Crazy Olympics

sessions can last anywhere between 30 minutes

embrace such activities such as sack races, monster

and several days.

relays, three-legged races and egg-and-spoon

Participants can join in various individual and team activities such as the Crazy Olympics – uncon-

races. Team members can help each other while “Since we have properties scattered across the

undertaking the physical challenges, for instance,

country, we offer a wide range of facilities that

by partnering some members of their teams with

are suitable for different teambuilding activities,”

physically strong members. In the mental chal-

says Nicholas. “A corporation might decide to use

lenges, which include the sticks competition, the

one property one time and another property the

aim is to outwit the opposing side.

next time. This variance in location gives different experiences for the teams.”

In the coastal region, Sarova owns the Sarova Taita Hills Game Lodge and the Sarova Salt Lick

Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort and Spa is

Game Lodge in Taita Taveta County. Nicholas

Above: Bend and stretch

perhaps one of the best venues for a water-based

says these sites are excellent for teambuilding.

Right: Blind faith?

teambuilding challenge. Participating teams can

The teams can compete within a jungle setting,

Left: Happy face

take part in water sports such as ocean kayaking

using the old Second World War forts and trenches for some gruelling physical activities.

have to be creative in the set-up of the teambuilding activity, which is dictated to by the kind

No skills required

of people taking part. Are they senior managers,

“When conducting a teambuilding session, it is

force? These are some of the factors that we

imperative that we know what the team desires

consider. You simply cannot take people through

to achieve,” says Nicholas. “We then consider

a teambuilding activity mechanically. We have

the number of people participating and it is from

to be involved and think on our feet as we go

that that we are able to come up with a suitable

through the programme.

departmental heads or co-workers in a sales

programme for that team.”

While the programmes are varied, Nicholas

Innovative

is quick to add that no skills are required to

“On top of this, we have to be innovative and

undertake the teambuilding sessions. “All that is

creative as the teambuilding exercise takes place.

required is a willingness to participate,” he says.

We keenly watch the reactions from the participants and we are on hand to quickly change the

20

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

For the animators, creativity is critical since it can

programme, should we feel that we are not

make or break the teambuilding activity. “We

moving towards the target.”

‘we have to be creative in the set-up of the teambuilding activity, which is dictated by the kind of people taking part’ For the programme to be beneficial, there are debriefing sessions at which the participants can learn and understand why they undertook a certain challenge and apply this knowledge to their work environment.

“Aside from the three properties on the Kenyan coast, we also have Sarova Shaba Game Lodge, which prides itself in offering the challenging Shaba Survivor Series, which are physically engaging activities,” says Nicholas.

For Nicholas and his team, the reason for a successful teambuilding programme is “not because the teams have completed their respective tasks, but when they work together as a team and come up with solutions to the problems at hand”.

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

21

WaTCHING THE MILLIONS Of WILdEBEEST, ZEBR a aNd SMaLL aNTELOpES MOvING EN MaSSE fROM THE aIR IS aN uNfORGETTaBLE SIGHT

Amazing sights CaTCH THE MIGRaTION fROM a HOT-aIR BaLLOON

22

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

mIGRATIOn

t

he migration of wildebeest is the largest animal movement on earth. every year, millions of wildebeest, zebra and small antelopes make the annual trek from the ngorongoro conservation Area in northern tanzania over the wild plains of the serengeti before crossing into the masai mara national reserve in southwest kenya.

The world is treated to a spectacle as the million-strong herd makes the epic crossing of the crocodile-infested Mara River. across the water, the Mara lions patiently lie in wait. for them, it is a royal feast.

The long rains in kenya have watered the plains

in the Mara, but this is where they mate. They

of the Mara and turned them from a golden

live within the Mara ecosystem for a couple of

carpet of dried grass into lush green vegetation.

months, normally between July and September,

food is abundant across the border and the huge

before embarking on another epic journey back

wildebeest population is here to feast on the

to the Ngorongoro Conservation area, where

fresh food.

the females give birth.

Left: The best view in the Mara

The arrival of the wildebeest on the Mara plains

This migration is by far the most exciting ecological

Below: annual migration, hell in the Mara River

marks a critical stage in their lives. Not only do

event in kenya. Thousands of tourists, both local

they cross the border for the abundance of food

and foreign, troop to the Mara to catch a glimpse of this amazing natural spectacle.

AerIAL vIeW While sighting the migration from safari vans can be breathtaking, nothing beats an aerial view.

Watching the millions of wildebeest, zebra and antelopes moving en masse from the air is an unforgettable sight.

When viewed from a hot-air balloon, the open plains of the Mara are dotted with mile upon mile of moving mammals. It is a sight to behold and an experience unlike any other in the world. from the sky, visitors have an unobstructed view of the migration and are able to follow the migrating mammals over a considerable distance above the Mara River, swamps, forests, wildlife and the vast savanna.

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

23

MIGRATION

Guests can arrange with the hotel to go on a hot-air balloon safari in order to see the migration from the air. These aerial safaris are an optional extra, costing from $450 per person for a one-hour flight across the plains.

Booking offices Flights normally take place in the early morning when flying conditions are best. The earth is still cool and there is less turbulence than at other times of day. Passengers on hot-air balloon flights also have an opportunity to enjoy the spectacular sunrises over the Mara plains.

Various private companies in the Mara offer balloon safaris. For those entering the national reserve by road via the Sekenani Gate, at least two hot-air balloon companies have set up booking offices at the gate. Bookings can also be done at Sarova Mara Game camp.

bush breakfast Before the flight, passengers are given a detailed safety briefing and told what to expect during the flight. Unlike the normal type of air travel with which we are familiar, a hot-air balloon flight is

Below: Firing up the Balloon

dictated not only by the experience of the pilot

Above right: Bush breakfast

but can be affected by the elements.

Top right: A leisurely trip across the Mara

The pilot and crew must consider the direction and speed of the wind and keep a close eye on weather forecasts. A stronger wind will carry the balloon further. Normal flights cover a distance of between nine and 12 miles.

On landing, visitors are treated to a sumptuous bush breakfast and can enjoy a delightful gamewatching safari on their way back to the lodge.

This gives them at least two magnificent views of the migration – from a hot-air balloon and from the ground.

Key facts about wildebeest and the great migration The wildebeest, also known as the gnu, is an antelope of the genus connochaetes.

Wildebeest is Dutch for ‘wild beast’ or ‘wild cattle’ in Afrikaans.

Gnus belong to the bovidae family, which includes antelopes, cattle and goats.

There are two breeds of wildebeest – the black and the blue. Both are native to Africa.

Fossil records indicate that these two species diverged about one million years ago, resulting in a northern and a southern species.

The blue wildebeest have changed very little from the ancestor species.

The black wildebeest, on the other hand, have undergone more morphological changes over the years so they could adapt to the open grassland habitat of the south.

Today there are five subspecies of the blue wildebeest, while the black wildebeest has no living subspecies.

The wildebeest is the most abundant big game species, both in population and biomass, in East Africa.

The most striking morphological differences between black and blue wildebeest are the orientation and curvature of their horns and the colour of their coats.

The blue wildebeest is the bigger of the two species, standing taller and weighing more than the black wildebeest.

In a typical year, wildebeest calves are born within a short period of time – about three weeks.

The timing of the migration in both the rainy and dry seasons can vary considerably, even by a couple of months, from year to year.

Other factors that affect the migration include the availability of food and surface water, predators, and phosphorus content in the grass.

Phosphorus is a crucial element for all life forms, especially for lactating female bovids.

For this reason, the wildebeest are always looking for phosphorus-rich grazing lands, hence the migration.

Owing to their migratory ways, the wildebeest, unlike other wild animals, do not form permanent pair bonds or defend a set territory.

The wildebeest mating season is called the rut.

Often it happens on the plains of the Mara.

The males establish temporary territories and make grunts and perform other distinctive antics to attract the females. These small territories are normally about 3,000 square metres in size. There are at least 300 such territories within one square kilometre.

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

25

ALAn donovAn MY STORY

a CELEBR aTION Of afRIC aN CuLTuR aL HERITaGE

26

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

OuRHeritage: afRICaN HERITaGE HOuSE

Africa, the world’s second-largest continental land mass, is a land of many contrasts, colours and shades. the continent has rich deposits of natural resources and is considered to be the world’s final investment frontier. With a varied mixture of peoples, Africa is celebrated for its diversity. Its people are known to have a wide range of celebrations marking various cultural and physical stages of life. the traditional garbs come in all manner of colours, forms, shapes and sizes.

far left: alan donovan Below left: diverse art Below: The main house

to celebrate this diversity, one man, who had the honour of interacting with some of these traditions, decided to showcase them to Africa and the rest of the world. African heritage house is the result of many years of travels and collecting of these cultural artefacts. Alan donovan is the man who brought it all to the world’s attention.

I

first came to Africa in the late 1960s soon after graduating from the university of california, Los Angeles (ucLA). I joined the united states state department and was sent to nigeria in 1967 as a program Assistant for the usAId [united states Agency for International development]. after the Nigerian-Biafran War broke out, I was deployed as a relief officer. But the job was quite risky since the airplanes that dropped relief food were being shot down and the trucks that trans-

little money and have the handicrafts modified

ported the food were hijacked and used for the

here and there and would in turn export them

fighting. I decided I had had enough of this and

for a profit.

realised that I was not cut out to be a bureaucrat.

However, during my tour of duty in Nigeria, I

Across the sAhArA

got introduced to the weaving and handicrafts

My next posting was in Tunisia, but I was sent

industry. This greatly fascinated me and I met

to paris to learn french first. I quit my job and

with many Nigerian artists. I realised that this was

instead bought a volkswagen bus, which I drove

a worthwhile venture since I could spend just a

from paris to Morocco and crossed the Sahara

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

27

OurHeritage: AFRICAN HERITAGE HOUSE

Below: Impressive views Right: The most photographed house in Africa Opposite page below left: Pleasing and simple furnishings

The Murumbi collections are exhibited at the National Archives in Nairobi

28

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

Desert headed for Nigeria. I waited at the border until the end of the war and was among the first people to cross into Nigeria.

I visited my old acquaintances in Lagos before I drove out of Nigeria and across the Congo and into Uganda and finally into Kenya. Along my travels across West Africa, I bought many body adornments such as rings and pendants from the various cultures that I encountered.

While in Kenya, I spent a couple of months with the Turkana people and was fascinated by their traditional jewellery. I would watch them melt their cooking pots to create incredible necklaces, earrings and bangles.

Birth of African Heritage With the wealth of knowledge and a large collection of cultural artefacts, especially from the Turkana people, I felt I needed to share this with everyone else. That led to the ‘Artefacts from Kenya’s Northern Frontier’ exhibition, which I organised in Nairobi in October 1970 at the Studio Arts 68 on Standard Street. The exhibition was well attended, but there was only one African in attendance. The man approached me and said that he was fascinated by my collection.

He asked me if I could go back to Turkana and get him some more of the cultural jewellery and artefacts. I obliged.

Where heritage lives Like a sentry standing guard over the vast expanse that is Nairobi National Park, a mud-like structure juts out from the small hill and rises four stories high. Its terra cotta mud brick and plaster walls and spires give off a coppery glow under the tropical sun.

around the house is like going back in time. It is like living and seeing the traditional cultures and festivals from across Africa. For Alan, this is just a piece of the rich experiences that he encountered in the more than 30 years of his expeditions across Africa.

This is the setting of the imposing African Heritage House, arguably the most photographed house in Africa.

Visitors are welcome

Alan Donovan, co-founder of African Heritage, built this baronial structure between 1989 and 1994. Having journeyed extensively across Africa, Alan was impressed by its traditional mud architecture.

Says Alan: “My house is open to those who want to come see it. I want to show how one can live a contemporary life when surrounded by traditional African art and architecture. My desire is to have this turned into a museum of African cultural heritage once I pass on.”

“En route to Kenya in 1969, I remember setting my eyes for the first time on the mud mosque near Timbuktu, Mali, and I was captivated by the architectural design,” says Alan. “The grandeur of the structure impressed me. I went on to study other mud structures across West Africa in Ghana, Burkina Faso, Nigeria and even Madagascar.”

A living African museum When he envisioned building a house, he wanted to incorporate these design concepts into the building. He built the house with the technical support of David Bristow.

According to Alan, the design is inspired by the mud architecture used by many African communities. One side of the house, for instance, is inspired by the wall designs and finishes of the mud palaces of the emirs of northern Nigeria, while another section is inspired by coral buildings along the East African coastal strip.

Today, the house is a standing testament to Alan’s love for African heritage. From its grand doors, inspired by doors in Morocco and on the Kenyan island of Lamu, to fabrics from the Bakuba people of central Congo, the house is truly a living African museum.

Every room is adorned with African treasures. One of the guest rooms contains a Swahili bed dating back 200 years. Walking

The US-based architectural magazine Architectural Digest defines African Heritage House as “an architecture rising from the serene Kenyan plain like an outcropping of earth, a vision of usefulness informed by the African genius for decoration”.

The house is open for tours. Visiting groups or individuals can also have their meals at the house. The open grounds that overlook the Nairobi-Mombasa railway line in the foreground and the plains of Nairobi National Park in the background can also host large parties, weddings and wedding receptions and other corporate functions.

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

29

Tours to African Heritage House can be organised with concierge at Sarova Stanley and Sarova Panafric Hotels.

Main pic: Traditional fabrics Top right: Eye-catching exteriors Far right: Ornate door

30

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

Tours: KES 3,000 minimum for up to six people and thereafter KES 500 per each additional person (with tea and coffee).

Rail travel to and from African Heritage House may be arranged with Kenya Railways for large events or wedding receptions.

OurHeritage: AFRICAN HERITAGE HOUSE

And from that, a new partnership was formed.

His name was Joseph Murumbi (Joe), who was the retired Vice President of Kenya. That partnership is what gave birth to the African Heritage, the first pan-African gallery in Africa.

Joe had been interested in setting up a panAfrican centre that would showcase artefacts from all parts of Africa. By the time I met him, he already had a collection of African cultural artefacts that he had collected during his numerous travels when he became the first Foreign Affairs Minister and roving ambassador for Kenya.

Walking around the house is like going back in time. It is like living and seeing the tr aditional cultures

The jewellery line also used ostrich egg shells,

wanted his house in Muthaiga to be transformed

porcupine quills, goat bones, fish bones and dyed

into an Institute for African Studies, but this never

bones. This jewellery line proved to be very

happened as the house was neglected.

popular.

I am doing this in honour of Joe and his late wife, I also started the Endangered Art jewellery line.

Sheila, and for future generations. I hope I will be

At the time of developing this line, I was supplying

able to achieve that before I die.

jewellery to the US-based Banana Republic Company. The line comprised old silver and gold

Joe and I opened the first African Heritage. Margaret

components from the fast-disappearing cultures

Kenyatta, the then Mayor of Nairobi, officially

and traditions. The components were then

opened it in January 1973. She went on to open

mixed with semi-precious and precious stones.

every other African Heritage gallery since then. At the height of it, we had about 51 African Heritage

I also had the NALA Jewellery line that was

galleries spread all over Africa and other parts of the

based on the Turkana and Maasai designs such

world and had more than 500 employees.

as the Maasai brass coils worn by Maasai married women. The coils are known as surutia in the

Jewellery line

Maa language. NALA is my name spelt backwards.

I hosted a lot of exhibitions, especially in the USA, where the response was amazing, espe-

Currently, I am channelling my energies towards

cially from the African American community.

establishing a permanent exhibition of the best pieces from the Joe Murumbi collections, which

In 1979 I started the Jungle Safari Jewellery. This

was one of the first collections of pan-African

was the first jewellery to use carved wooden

art from Africa. The Murumbi collections are

animals and Pokot water reed beads and seeds.

exhibited at the National Archives in Nairobi. Joe

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

31

GivingBack

Sarova marks Earth Hour in style with green initiatives

E

nvironmental conservation is a key part of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) charter of Sarova Hotels, Resort & Game Lodges. A number of sustainable environmental management programmes have been undertaken by Sarova including the Sarova Green Initiative, a reafforestation programme across all Sarova properties, Sarova energy management projects and water conservation initiatives.

In March, Sarova launched a social media campaign on Facebook, urging the public to join in a tree-planting initiative as part of this year’s Earth Hour.

32

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

Main picture: Sarova Shaba staff join Daaba school pupils in tree planting

Earth Hour is an annual global event organised

by World Wildlife Fund and held on the last Saturday of MarcH

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

33

An aggressive drive through social network forums resulted in 1,930 new Likes on the company’s Facebook page

34

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

GivingBack

Earth Hour is an annual global event organised

This provided a way to inspire and empower the

by World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and held on the

community and Sarova as a whole to Go Beyond

last Saturday of March. It calls for households and

the Hour and, most importantly, commit to

businesses to turn off non-essential lights for one

a bigger picture in the shape of environmental

hour to raise awareness about the need to take

conservation. An aggressive drive through social

action on climate change.

network forums resulted in 1,930 new Likes on the company’s Facebook page, which translated

Earth Hour has reached more than 1.8 billion

into 1,930 seedlings.

people, with over 5,200 cities and towns in 135 countries on every continent taking part. It has been described as ‘the world’s largest campaign for the planet’.

tree planting Go Beyond the Hour was also marked in a distinctive ways across all eight properties. The

This year, Earth Hour introduced the idea of

activities included tree planting in the communi-

‘Beyond the Hour’ as part of a global campaign to

ties in the area of operation during the month

inspire and empower supporters worldwide to

and talks to schools about environmental issues.

commit to more than just turning off their lights

The Sarova associates were made aware of

for an hour.

the importance of environmental conservation within their workplaces and in their homes

simple promise

through training and energy-saving tips.

As well as calling on people to support its tree

In addition to the online campaign, Earth Hour

planting programme via the social media, Sarova

was marked in various ways across all Sarova

Hotels went a step further and offered a simple

properties on 31 March. At Sarova Stanley,

promise and challenge that would require the

guests were treated to a candlelit dinner at the

planting of a tree seedling for every Like regis-

Thai Chi and Thorn Tree restaurants, where the

tered on its Facebook page between 1 and 30

lights were switched off between 8.30 and 9.30

March.

pm local time.

Top: Bush Dinner at Sarova Taita Hills under moonlight and lanterns Above: Guests Water their trees at Sarova Taita Hills Left: Guests ready to plant a tree at Sarova Lion Hill grounds as part of Marking Earth Hour

Sarova Panafric organised a candlelit

park during the day. In the evening, guests were

dinner at the Flame Tree Restau-

treated to a candlelit dinner at Isokon Maasai

rant and guests were encouraged to

Cultural Village within the camp’s grounds. The

light a candle to mark Earth Hour.

resident naturalist gave a brief talk on traditional

At an elaborate outdoor dinner at

conservation practised by the Maasai community.

the Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort

The Sarova Taita Hills and Sarova Salt Lick game

and Spa, guests were treated to a

lodges had a tree for every guest to plant before

candlelit dance performance by the

hosting a bush dinner under the clear African

Fun A Team. At Sarova Shaba, guests

skies. During the dinner, the resident naturalist

enjoyed a cocktail before proceeding

gave a brief talk on water conservation.

to a candlelit poolside dinner while all the lodge’s non-essential lights were

Sarova’s involvement in Earth Hour activities was

switched off.

felt beyond the locations where the company operates and there is a renewed commitment to

Sarova Mara Game Camp involved

sustainable environmental conservation efforts

guests and staff in planting trees in the

incorporating all its stakeholders.

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

35

I dream of a healthy environment for Kenya

36

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

ICONS: paula kaHuMbu

“I have a dream. That dream is to restore and ensure the future of our environment.” these are the words of decorated environmental activist dr paula kahumbu.

In recent years, the state of our environment has become a hot issue and the need to protect it can no longer be ignored. However, growing population densities and limited natural resources have led not only to a rise in human-wildlife conflicts, but also to environmental degradation.

“I am gravely concerned by the state of our environment,” says paula. “We are losing our natural resources at such an alarming rate. the very nature of our environment is crumbling under a myriad of problems, key amongst them being negligence and ignorance.”

WE arE loSIng our natur al rESourcES at SucH an alarMIng r atE. tHE vEry naturE oF our EnvIronMEnt

IS

cruMblIng

undEr a MyrIad oF problEMS

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

37

ICONS: Paula Kahumbu

resources. We have lost a lot of it thus far and

She has rolled up her sleeves and been at the

this, in my opinion, is unforgivable.”

forefront of making a positive change.

Paula says the natural environment had an

Under the Kenya Land Conservation Trust, she

intrinsic value during the time of our grandpar-

has been working with landowners across the

ents. They held natural forests with great regard

country to get their support for the protection

and considered them as sacred sites where they

of wildlife and the natural environment. This

performed traditional rituals to the gods. This,

involves intensive ‘sensitisation’ campaigns with

she says, helped preserve the natural environ-

a view to setting up both private and communal

ment for generations.

land conservancies that will go a long way towards the realisation of this vision.

However, for Paula and other like-minded “We realised that you cannot protect the wildlife

persons, all is not lost.

and the environment without engaging with and “To me, Kenya is still that beautiful country that I

roping in the landowners into programmes that

grew up loving,” she says.

will not only help them understand the impor-

According to Paula, this is a time for us all to rise to the occasion and save our natural environment from total annihilation for posterity, even as Kenya seeks to become a middle-

To me, Kenya is still that beautiful country that I grew up loving

income economy in 2030.

She believes Kenya has gone commercial so

“I think the Vision 2030 initiative, championed by

tance of environmental protection but also give

quickly that the environment has been segre-

the Kenyan government and the private sector,

them a sense of ownership into it,” says Paula.

gated and seen as an impediment to growth and

is a noble idea,” says Paula. “However, I have a

development.

problem with it in the sense that some of the

Another critical factor that she and her team

objectives in the blueprint collide with each

have borne in mind when seeking the support

other.

and participation of the private landowners is that

“Kenya is playing catch-up with the rest of the world, but it is the environment that is hurting

less than eight per cent of Kenya’s land mass is

and paying the price for that,” says Paula. “It is

“For instance, tourism is highlighted as one of the

accounted for by protected national parks and

rather unfortunate, and I think we need to take a

key pillars for driving economic growth towards

reserves. Over 75 per cent of the total land mass

serious look at the nature of our environment so

the realisation of the vision. However, other

is classified as wildlife landscapes, which means

that future generations of Kenyans can enjoy and

pillars such as manufacturing and infrastructural

there are more wild animals outside protected

get to appreciate a healthy environment that we

development seek to destroy the very environ-

parks and reserves.

grew up seeing.

ment that would attract tourism dollars.”

“And with the growing population in the country,

“Kenya is such a blessed land. It was gifted to us

Private and communal conservancies

we have seen a gradual increase in human-wild-

of the best wildlife resources in the world, but

Paula is not just sitting back and doing nothing

This, she says, is the main reason why they have

what are we doing? We are abusing its natural

about the state of the environment, however.

sought the participation and support of the land-

by our grandparents and we need to jealously protect it for our children’s children. It has some

38

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

life conflict over the last few years,” says Paula.

owners to help set up private and communal

With fewer than 2,000 lions in the country today,

conservancies.

it is clear that urgent remedial measures must be taken to arrest the situation. Moreover, the

“The KWS [Kenya Wildlife Service] has always been

vultures and eagles that feed on the carcasses are

seen by the landowners and the communities as a

not spared either.

government law-enforcement agency,” she explains.

“However, we help bridge the gap and this has

Paula and her team from WildlifeDirect have

created trust and brought about a better working

campaigned hard to get the Kenyan government

relationship for the sake of the environment.”

to ban the chemical.

Saving the lions

“It hurts me very much as a Kenyan when I have to fight my government to ban a harmful chemical

In addition, Paula has been involved in a

that is a direct threat to our wildlife and environ-

programme that seeks to correct a lot of wrongs

ment,” she says.

Above: Up close and personal with a mountain gorilla Far left: Properly equipped Below: Spectacular views make the effort worthwhile

that would negatively impact on the tourism industry in Kenya if not arrested at an early stage.

The US manufacturer has banned exports of Furadan to Kenya, but since neighbouring coun-

“This award has emboldened me to continue

One of the most critical is Kenya’s lion popula-

tries such as Uganda and Tanzania still stock it,

doing what I do for the sake of our environment

tion. Tourists come from all over the world to

the chemical is being smuggled into Kenya in

and our beautiful country,” says Paula. “I am

see these animals in their natural surround-

small quantities.

sure it will encourage others to do this, because conservation is not about the awards and the

ings. But, owing to human encroachment on lands within or close to the national parks and

Paula has won awards, the most recent being the

money. In fact, you cannot get rich doing conser-

reserves, there has been an increase in human-

National Geographic Award for Conservation

vation work. It is all about selflessness. It is more

wildlife conflict. This has often resulted in lions

Leadership in Africa.

like a spiritual calling. You must want to do it.”

preying on domestic game, mainly cattle from the neighbouring communities.

“With that, the communities have resorted to using unorthodox means of controlling this by killing the lions,” laments Paula. “And one of the ways that they do this is by poisoning the lions with a lethal dose of a chemical called Furadan.”

She says the chemical is manufactured in the United States, where it is banned owing to its lethal composition. So lethal is the chemical that it has acquired various nicknames such as ‘the two-step killer’ and ‘the lion killer’.

“What makes it even deadlier is the fact that it does not have a smell or taste,” says Paula. “The lions cannot detect it in the meat and once they feed on a carcass laced with the chemical, they die almost instantly. This ends up eliminating an entire pride of lions in a matter of minutes.”

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

39

Can you outlast and outwit them?

Fun and games at the SAROVA Shaba Survivor CHALLENGE

40

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

SAROVA Shaba Survivor cHALLENGE

T

he rugged terrain of northern Kenya offers a picturesque landscaped dotted with shrubs and rocky hills. A variety of wild animals have their home in the open rangeland with its network of valleys.

These scenic lands, tucked away from modern life, provide a perfect location for the ultra-tough reality TV series ‘Survivor’, which calls on participants to outlast and outwit their opponents. The African version of this entertaining show was filmed in the Shaba National Reserve.

Here are some of the activities that make up the With a view to diversifying its product, the Sarova

exciting menu that is the Sarova Shaba Survivor

Shaba Game Lodge has developed this concept

Series:

into the gruelling yet exciting Sarova Shaba Survivor Series. This highly engaging programme is designed as a team-building event, especially for

Above: Bucket fetching Top right: Light a fire the traditional way Below: Learning new skills the Samburu way

Barrel of fun

corporates, with an intensive programme geared

One team member from each tribe is selected

at engaging the physical stamina as well as the

to stand in a barrel away from the pool. As in the

mental ability of participants. The programme is highly varied in terms of the physical and mental challenges that have to be overcome or solved.

To make the programme more exciting, the animators have borrowed some of the tasks from the original ‘Survivor’ programme, but have modified them to make them more challenging.

an intensive progr amme geared at engaging the physical stamina as well as the mental ability of participants

Other tasks have been developed to blend with the cultural traditions of the local Samburu people.

‘Survivor’ series, the competing teams are given tribal names borrowed from various clans of the Samburu people. The rest of the tribal members are required to fetch buckets full of water from the pool, dash across a field and empty their buckets into the barrel. The members are required to fill the barrel with water until it overflows. The first team to have their barrel overflow wins.

‘Blood’ letting This challenge blends with the cultural traditions of the Samburu people. In this task, tribal members watch as the Samburu morans shoot an arrow into the neck of a heifer and drain

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

41

Left: Cook out time Far right: Tied up in knots Below: Team work

42

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

SAROVA Shaba Survivor cHALLENGE

the blood into a calabash. The tribal groups

allowed to carry the goats. The first team to arrive

are required to compete in what they believe

at the finishing line with all its goats is the winner.

is a blood-drinking ceremony. However, they are given gourds containing water mixed with extracts of the neem tree (muarubaine), which

Head-to-head

is used by the Samburu to treat malaria. The

Team members are required to keep their

object of the task is to test team spirit between

balance on an unstable surface while attempting

the members and see if they can act together as

to pull each other off the path without letting go

a team to complete the task.

of the ropes.

Fire-making

Lions and impalas

The fire-making task requires teams to light a

This mind game requires members to solve a

hidden item. A clever strategy, a determined

fire using traditional Samburu methods. First,

puzzle. They must come up with a solution that

team and keen attention to detail are the key

Samburu morans take the teams through the

requires them to move three lions and three

requirements for success.

traditional fire-making process so they can get an

impalas across a river and safely to the opposite

idea of how to do it. The teams are then given

bank. However, the lions are not allowed to

two dry twigs and told to scout the grounds for

outnumber the impalas on either side of the river.

dried animal droppings and grass. The team that

The team that solves the puzzle with the least

Those members selected as ‘sheep’ are blind-

lights a fire in the shortest time is declared the

number of moves is declared the winner. There

folded and told not to speak. Another member is

winner. No matches, lighters or other modern

should be no more than seven moves, however.

selected as a ‘shepherd’. He can see, but cannot

they must solve clues that will lead them to the

Herding sheep

move or speak or make any sound that could be

fire-making tools are allowed.

Log run

represented as speech. He may only whistle, clap

In this task, all but one members of the team are

sheep are separated and spread out on the field.

This task requires the teams to race goats from

blindfold. The blindfold members are grouped on

The shepherd and sheep are given five minutes

one point to another. However, the goats are

one side of a field while instructions are shouted

to discuss their commands on how the shepherd

Goat race

or bang items together to create sounds. The

also required to graze at their pleasure. The team

by the team member who is not blindfold. They

is going to direct his sheep to a winning point.

members are kitted in Samburu shoes made

must follow this person’s instructions as he guides

The team with the most sheep on the winning

from old car tyres. The goats are not supposed

them to the opposite end of the field, where they

mark within five minutes is the winner.

to mingle with the goats of the opposing team,

collect five wooden poles. Once they have the

while hitting the animals with sticks or stones is

poles, they must carry them to the centre of the

not permitted. Moreover, the members are not

field and slot them into a board. The challenge

The fire-making task requires teams to light a fire using tr aditional Samburu methods

Survivor moves

for the teams is not only to follow the directional

Members from each team are selected to stand

instructions yelled by the non-blindfold member,

on a large chess-type board. They must move

but also to avoid obstacles placed in the field.

in turn, one square at a time, trying to find the

They must also avoid bumping into each other,

correct movements so as not to run out of moves.

since the opposing team has to compete at the

The last person on the board is the winner.

same time.

These are just some of the thrilling yet chal-

Shaba ‘Olympics’

lenging activities that make up the Sarova Shaba

Tribes must collect seven flags and animal arte-

and new activities are being developed all the

Survivor Series. Other programmes are available

facts, hidden in the grounds, in a race against

time to challenge the physical stamina and intel-

time. In order to get to the next flag or artefact,

lect of the participating teams.

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT 43

44

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

FACES OF SAROVA

THE FACES OF SAROVA jA MES OLE TIR A fOR THE LOVE OF NATURE

J

ames Ole Tira is resident naturalist at the luxurious Sarova Mara Game Camp.

As a respected elder of the Maasai community, he has a wealth of experience, offering guests many fascinating insights into the cultural traditions and practices of the Maasai as well as into the general environment.

from wild game and other aggressors – perform

sands of years. We are known not to harm the

the welcome dance.

environment and this gives the nature walks an interesting twist.

After this, the guests are welcomed into the manyatta. The manyatta is a cluster of traditional

For instance, when the Maasai morans are out

Maasai houses that are built close to each other

in the wilderness, they rely on various natural

and form a circle. In the middle of the circle is

signs to get their food or know when and where

a huge open ground where the Maasai keep

danger is lurking. They also rely on other animals

their most prized possessions, cattle. The guests

for their survival. They rely on the African honey

I pride myself on offering guests a unique experi-

are shown around the manyatta and taken into

guide bird, for instance, to get honey.

ence in as far as the Maasai culture is concerned.

one of the mud houses, which have different

Many of the guests who come here have previ-

compartments.

memorable

Nature walks

Since I started working at the camp in 2000, I have

Aside from taking guests to the cultural villages,

Taking them on the nature walks, which can last

I am pleased to offer them birding tours and

two to three hours, and giving them a taste of the

nature walks within the grounds of the camp and

Maasai culture has been a really rewarding expe-

on the periphery of the national reserve.

rience for them and for me as well.

ously heard of the Maasai people and many would not only welcome a chance to see this community but would like to closely interact with the community.

traditional

had many memorable encounters with guests.

I enjoy taking them out to some of the local villages on the north-eastern edge of the Masai Mara National Reserve. While here, they are able to experience the day-to-day life of the Maasai community. They visit the manyattas – Maasai traditional houses made of mud and smoothened with cow dung.

‘With more than 400 bird species within the Mara ecosystem, I am happy to point out various bird species to the guests’

While here, they get to have a first-hand cultural taste of the Maasai community. First, they are

With more than 400 bird species within the

It gives me extreme pleasure when I share my

welcomed by the community through a tradi-

Mara ecosystem, I am happy to point out

knowledge of the local environment and help

tional Maasai welcome ceremony that involves

various bird species to the guests. Many are

unveil the culture of the Maasai, my people, to

dances. The morans – Maasai warriors who

interested to know how the Maasai people

the guests. I love it.

guard the manyattas and the community at large

have lived in harmony with nature for thou-

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT 45

ARTS & MUSIC

A potter’s touch Magdalene Odundo typifies African cultural heritage through pottery

46

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

A

rt, it is said, is as deeply expressive as it is inspiring. No matter your taste, you have at one point or another stopped and stared at some form of art – and appreciated it.

parents. They were very open-minded and just gave us the opportunity to be whatever we wanted to be.”

She says her parents, and especially her father,

While many of us see the end product and criti-

who was a journalist, helped cultivate an adven-

cise it through our ‘artistic’ eyes – or lack of them

turous spirit in her, as did her siblings.

– there is a lot of brain behind what we see as the masterpiece. Someone had a dream about it.

“Without that, I guess I would have ended up being a teacher or a nurse, as those were consid-

Allow me to introduce Magdalene Odundo. For

ered the careers of women at the time,” she says.

this Kenyan-born British sculptor, the journey to

“I owe my success to that adventurous spirit that

the top of the global art industry has been long

my parents encouraged in us.”

and chequered in many ways. Having grown up in colonial Kenya and lived through an era of conservatism, especially as far as the girl child

adventurous

was concerned, she has risen through the ranks

It is this adventurous spirit, she says, that made

and made her mark in the art industry.

her thirst for doing things with her hands and

This page: A selection of fine pots

creating something. She recalls her days in

cosmopolitan “I spent my childhood years in Mombasa, where the cosmopolitan population gave me an early insight into different cultures,” says Magdalene.

“But perhaps one of the most important things that influenced my career path towards art

‘I wanted to understand why some 20th century artists such as Picasso regarded our art as primitive’

was the forward, outward-thinking ways of my primary school when they were required to do needlework and she came out top.

“That really encouraged and motivated me,” says Magdalene. “When you visualise something in your head and you labour so hard to create something and you see the final thing as you had envisioned it, the feeling is awesome. And that was what I felt in primary school.”

She recalls how one teacher at Mary Cliff School in Tudor, Mombasa, encouraged her in her arts and crafts lessons and in the process helped embolden her creative spirit.

Her love for the arts and crafts did not stop there. Magdalene advanced her skills when she joined Loreto High School, Limuru. She went on

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

47

ARTS & MUSIC

to pass her O-level and A-level exams at Pangani Girls High School.

Magdalene’s

big

break

came

soon

after

completing her A-levels. It was a kind of blessing in disguise for the young woman when she was unable to join the University of Nairobi to pursue a degree in Fine Arts.

“An opportunity opened for me at SH Benson, which was one of the largest advertising firms in the country at the time. I joined the firm as an intern. I quickly learned the ropes and I became the first African woman to head the studio in 1968,” she says with a huge smile.

While working at SH Benson, she took part-time lessons in Layout Studies at Kenya Polytechnic to advance her skills. She left SH Benson to join

she discovered was “a

Neon General Signs in 1971 as assistant designer,

huge sense of appre-

then went on to further studies in the UK.

ciation. I learned to appreciate our cultural

sense of appreciation

heritage and diversity much better.”

Going to the UK opened a new world for her, says Magdalene. But the most important thing

Apart from this, she

‘I feel emotionally attached to every piece so much that I sometimes find it hard to let go of it’

learned that commercial arts were not as appealing to her as they had previously been.

And with that, a sculptor was born. According to Magdalene, pottery gave her an opportunity to

critical moment

blend her experience with the cultural heritage

“Commercial arts were, in my opinion, very

commercial arts, pottery gave her an oppor-

biased towards materialism and this was no

tunity to make each and every piece with the

longer attractive to me. I became disillusioned by

palms of her hands while at the same time giving

the power of advertising since it did not have a

the piece the kind of individuality that she was

social take or carry an agenda. That was a critical

not able to give to other forms of commercial

moment for me as I started to find a moral piece

art. She had been in contact with this form of

of myself.”

art before, but the hand-building technique was

that she so much wanted to express. Unlike

what really won her over.

She was driven by an intrinsic curiosity. “I wanted to understand why some 20th century artists such as Picasso regarded our art as primitive.

48

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

individual touch

I felt I wanted to imbue the knowledge I had

“Hand-building a pot from a mound of wet clay

gained in commercial arts and merge that to the

affords me the opportunity to be creative and, in

individuality of our cultural heritage.”

the process, give it that individual potter’s touch

that is unlike any other piece of art. I felt I was

Apart from the British Museum,

pumping my thoughts and emotions into the

examples of Magdalene’s work

mound of wet clay as my hands worked it into a

can be seen at the Smithsonian

form of art. This gave me a sense of ownership. I

Institute in Washington D.C. and

wanted to own it. And I did.

the National Museum in Nairobi.

Her work is also in display at the

“Clay is to me an almost spiritual thing. It is so

Frankfurt Museum in Germany,

personal that I feel every piece of pottery I make

the Victoria and Albert Museum

is a part of me. I feel emotionally attached to

in London and other leading art

every piece so much that I sometimes find it hard

institutions.

to let go of it, for whatever amount of money.”

beautiful pieces gifted potter

For her exemplary work and

Magdalene is considered one of the world’s best

contribution to African heritage,

potters. Alan Donovan, co-founder of African

Magdalene recently received a Lifetime Achieve-

Heritage, the continent’s first Pan African Gallery,

ment Award at the 40th anniversary of African

in Nairobi, regards her as one of the greatest

Heritage.

artists from Africa.

Her incredible knack for creating beautiful pieces “Magdalene’s pots are not good – they are great,”

has also made her one of the few Kenyans to

says Alan. “I mean, she is such a gifted potter, and

be made an Officer of the Order of the British

when you look at her works, they are unlike any

Empire (OBE), by the Queen in 2008.

other. If you tour the British Museum, the first work of art you see is her art. It is placed on its

“Art is intuitive,” she says. “It is the essence of

own because of its individuality.”

being human.”

Call to encourage young artists Arts and crafts should be encouraged in schools, especially at a time when Kenya is working to become a middle-income economy under the Vision 2030 blueprint, says Magdalene Odundo.

The sculptor believes that encouraging crafts in school enhances the development of a creative brain, especially in young children.

Kenyan parents should encourage their children to take up arts and crafts in school rather than concentrate only on theoretical subjects, says Magdalene.

“The arts and crafts scene in Kenya is fairly healthy, but I think we need a paradigm shift in as far as our curricula are concerned,” she says.

“Extra creativity is one of the critical components that is lacking in our education system and I believe that if arts and crafts as a subject was further encouraged, our kids would be in a better position to think creatively.”

Magdalene is at the forefront of making this a reality and praises the new partnership that her university in the UK, the University for the Creative Arts (UCA), is making with tertiary institutions such as the University of Nairobi and the Kenyatta University. Magdalene is senior professor of ceramics at UCA Farnham in England.

She says this partnership will go a long way towards harnessing the development of arts and crafts in Kenya through exchange programmes for students and lecturers.

This page: More unusual creations

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT 49

E-HOSPITALITY

Sarova uses ‘E power’ to enhance guest experience

S

arova Hotels uses technology to interact with guests and raise its standards in product and service offerings

In its endeavour to provide convenience,

In such a dynamic industry and industry as the hospitality sector, it is essential to keep customers and guests engaged and to create platforms to communicate with them and create brand rapport.

coverage and value to its customers, Sarova Hotels has embraced E-Hospitality as a strategic

Sarova Hotels has achieved this through social

business platform that integrates seamlessly with

media channels such as Facebook (Sarova Hotels

its operations.

Kenya),

Twitter

(SarovaHotelsKen),

Blogger

(Sarova Hospitality) and YouTube (Sarova Hotels

Below: High-tech business centre at Sarova Panafric

50

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

The E-Hospitality solution at Sarova Hotels

Kenya). These platforms allow Sarova to actively

will enable the Sarova properties to deliver an

engage and interact with its guests. The company

unmatched experience to their guests by aligning

has a very active online community that is

three significant customer ‘touch points’:

growing all the time.

• Customer engagement

Sarova is focused on getting to know its guests as

• Customer inquiries and reservation

well as dealing with social activities, lifestyle and

• Customer relationship management.

wellness. Meanwhile, the guests can get to know

it is essential to keep customers and guests engaged and to create platforms to communicate

The next important ‘touch point’ is handling

By embracing E-Hospitality, Sarova Hotels has

customer inquiries and bookings. Sarova aims

managed to effectively improve on customer

to make the booking process as convenient and

relationship management. By monitoring review

customer-friendly as possible. It has invested in

sites and responding to guest feedback on sites

a secure online payment gateway system that

such as TripAdvisor, the company has been

allows guests to book and pay for their holidays

able to raise the bar in service and this has led

using major cards such as Visa and MasterCard.

to TripAdvisor granting Certificate of Excellence awards to most of its properties.

Sarova has gone further by enabling guests to what is happening at Sarova through Sarova

book offline and pay online, thus making the

news items and, most importantly, can engage

service more convenient and efficient. Sarova has

with some of the company’s Corporate Social

also invested in a mobile WAP site that further

Sarova has also installed a Voice of the Customer

customer loyalty

enhances the guest experience. In addition,

feedback system on its website, allowing guests

Sarova Hotels has partnered with Kenya’s leading

to write and communicate directly with the

mobile application

mobile company, Safaricom, to enable guests to

hotel. This has gone a long way towards building

pay for their holidays using the M-Pesa money

customer loyalty and improving the product.

In its continued efforts to promote Destination

transfer service.

Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

Kenya, Sarova Hotels has launched a mobile

Sarova Hotels has a great deal of experience and

application platform available on Nokia Ovi Store

The management of Sarova Hotels likes to

expertise when it comes to offering E-Solutions

– My Sarova Safari. This mobile app is a social

receive feedback from guests because it helps

to its customers, whether for reservations,

itinerary map providing guests with information

the company to continuously improve its service

booking or customer engagement. Combining its

about the various activities they can enjoy at any

offerings with a view to providing a truly refreshing

strengths in these three domains has given Sarova

of the Sarova Hotels locations.

African experience in all areas of its operation.

a distinct first-mover advantage in the industry.

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

51

SAROVA HOTELS, resort & game LODGES INDEX CENTRAL RESERVATIONS Tel: +254 (0)20 276 7000; 271 4444 Fax: +254 (0)20 271 5566 Email: centralreservations@sarovahotels.com

SAROVA LOYALTY PROGRAM SAROVA ZAWADI Tel: +254 (0)20 276 7440/276 7421 Fax: +254 (0)20 271 5566 Email: sarovazawadi@sarovahotels.com

Sarova Stanley, NAIROBI

OVERSEAS GENERAL SALES AGENTS

Tel: +254 (0)20 275 7000; 316 377 Fax: +254 (0)20 222 9388; 224 9757 Email: thestanley@sarovahotels.com

USA

SAROVA PANAFRIC, NAIROBI Tel: +254 (0)20 271 4444; 272 0802 Fax: +254 (0)20 272 6356 Email: panafric@sarovahotels.com

Kartagener Associates Inc 14 Penn Plaza, Suite 2223 New York, NY 10122 Toll Free: (800) 524-7979 Tel: 212 239 7979 Fax: 212 239 7479 E-mail: henry@kainyc.com Skype: Kai-nicole www.kainyc.com UK

SAROVA WHITESANDS BEACH RESORT & SPA, MOMBASA Tel: +254 (0)41 212 8000 Fax: +254 (0)41 548 5652; 548 6536 Email: reservation@sarovahotels.com

SAROVA LION HILL GAME LODGE Tel: +254 (0)51 852 288; 850 238 Fax: +254 (0)51 221 0836

SAROVA MARA GAME CAMP Tel: +254 (0)50 22 386; 22 194 Mobile: +254 (0)773 610 405 Fax: +254 (0)50 22 371

SAROVA SHABA GAME LODGE Tel: +254 (0)64 32 030; 30 638 Mobile: +254 (0)728 603 590 Fax: +254 (0)20 271 5566

SAROVA TAITA HILLS GAME LODGE Tel: +254 (0)43 30 540; 31 271 Mobile: +254 (0)728 608 765 Fax: +254 (0)43 30 007

SAROVA SALT LICK GAME LODGE Tel: +254 (0)43 30 270; 30 243 Fax: +254 (0)43 30 007

52

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

Dendy Walwyn Market Places 12 Pummery Square, Poundbury Dorchester, Dorset DT1 3GW Tel: +44 (0)1305 751510 Fax: +44 (0)1305 751511 Email: sales@marketplaces.co.uk SOUTH AFRICA Anita Vernes Southern Spoor Marketing PO Box 691 Witkoppen 2068 South Africa Tel: +27 (0)11 4695082/3 Fax: +27 (0)11 4695086 Email: anita@southernspoor.co.za GERMANY, AUSTRIA, SWITZERLAND Harald Alber ATMS Stresemannstrasse 17 63477 Maintal Germany Tel.: +49 6181 4244 229 Fax: +49 6181 4244 205 Email: gh.alber@t-online.de INDIA Ankush Nijhawan Nijahawan Group of Companies E77, South Extension New Delhi 110 049 Tel: +91 11 4134 9448 Email: ankush@nijhawangroup.org

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

53

lUxURY HOTEl wiTH A DASH OF EDwARDiAN SplENDOUR From the day in 1902 when it first opened its doors, Sarova Stanley, a five-star hotel in Nairobi, has been making history by hosting royal safaris and a long line of living legends. The moment you pass through the century-old revolving doors, you enter another world. The heat and bustle of modern Nairobi are left behind as you adjust to the cool victorian elegance of Sarova Stanley. The spacious foyer, with its patterned marble floors, chesterfields, antique clocks and ancient photographs, will take you back in time.

Sarova Stanley is more than a hotel. it is the home of great events, wonderful memories, legendary characters and an enduring legacy. indeed, the history of Nairobi and Sarova Stanley Hotel are inextricably linked. As Kenya’s first luxury hotel, it has always occupied a special place in Nairobi’s heart.

Kenya’s first locally brewed beer was served at the hotel’s long bar in 1923. Ewart grogan, who walked from the cape to cairo to prove his love for a woman, slaked his considerable thirst here. So, too, did Ernest Hemingway, Denys Finch Hatton and Edward, prince of wales. At Sarova Stanley, the stars came out at night. cinema legends such as Ava gardner, clark gable and Stewart granger have all stayed here.

54

SAROVA SPOTLIGHT

Today, Sarova Stanley has preserved its heritage character while offering modern hotel services and amenities to create Nairobi’s most special city hotel experience. This is underlined by the accolades that the hotel has continued to receive.

They include Kenya’s leading Hotel at world Travel Awards 2010 and 2011; Kenya’s luxury Business Hotel at world luxury Hotel Awards 2010 and 2011; and Kenya’s best city Hotel at Kenya Tourism Awards 2011.

autHentic Sarova Stanley has 217 guest rooms on eight fl oors in various categories including Heritage Suites, Executive Suites and club Rooms. Dining facilities include the legendary Thorn Tree café, the Thai chi Restaurant (voted the most authentic Thai restaurant in East Africa), the Exchange Bar (former venue for Nairobi’s fi rst stock exchange), the pool Deck Restaurant and 24-hour in-room dining. Business facilities include wireless internet, a fully equipped business centre, meeting rooms of various sizes and secretarial services. The heated pool on the fi fth fl oor adjoins a fully equipped health club with gym, steam, sauna and massage facilities. Sarova Stanley’s mini shopping arcade houses gift shops, a newspaper stand, a beauty salon, a bookshop, a boutique, a curio shop, a chemist’s, an optician’s,

accommoDation Sarova Stanley has 217 individually air conditioned rooms on eight floors. they include: 1 presidential suite 1 penthouse 2 courier single beds 16 executive suites, 3 junior suites and 2 state suites 32 club rooms 160 Deluxe rooms.

a locksmith, an art gallery and car rental outlets. guests can ask for a historical tour of the hotel to view old photographs and heritage suites.

Sarova Stanley, part of Sarova Hotels, Resort & game lodges, is a member of the preferred Hotels group (pHg), a prestigious selection of privately owned and managed hotels worldwide.

A NAME iNSpiRED BY KENYA’S MOvEMENT FOR pEAcE AND HARMONY As many nations across Africa achieved independence and the pan African Movement began to gain traction among African leaders at the time, it has to be remembered that one hotel, perched on a small hill overlooking Nairobi, opened its doors and welcomed African leaders who were inspired by the dream of a harmonious continent.

Sarova panafric has lived up to its billing. inspired by the pan African Movement, the Sarova panafric has remained true to its calling. Today, the hotel features a unique blend of colours and shades inspired by various African leaders and nations who embraced the movement. it was officially opened by the then Kenyan president, jomo Kenyatta, in 1965 at the height of the pan African Movement, which was championed by African independence heroes such as the late Mzee jomo Kenyatta of Kenya and the late Kwame Nkrumah of ghana.

Towering above other hotels in the city, this four-star property benefits from a unique location in a quiet neighbourhood, only a short walk from central Nairobi. This makes it ideal for leisure tourists stopping over on their way to or from the safari circuit. its tranquil atmosphere is equally well suited to business travellers staying in Nairobi who would like a quiet evening as they work from their hotel or relax in the evening after a hectic business schedule.

guests at Sarova panafric can now experience a redefinition of refreshing African hospitality. The hotel has a brand-new entrance foyer, lobby and reception area, all themed in neo-African decor and tone. The comfortable and spacious lobby offers a pleasant working environment for business executives and other guests staying at the hotel. The lobby’s architectural theme is complemented by newly commissioned uniforms for all staff, designed as a blend of African prints and contemporary fashion trends. To further enhance the arrival experience for guests, the hotel has installed a state-of-the-art security feature and a new gatehouse that will ensure minimum inconvenience and a smooth flow of guest vehicles into the hotel. leisurely meals can be enjoyed at the warm and lively Flame Tree Restaurant, once a watering hole for freedom fighters, spies and foreign correspondents and named after the flame tree that holds pride of place in the gardens.

conFerence Sarova panafric offers state-of-the-art banqueting and conferencing facilities with a range of meeting and function rooms equipped with the latest audio-visual and wi-Fi equipment. To wind up the day, guests can take a dip in the pool or go for a leisurely massage – or simply enjoy a cool drink to the soothing sounds of Africa’s rhythm.

accommoDation the Sarova panafric has newly refurbished rooms and suites with separate air conditioning in every room. there are 162 spacious bedrooms, well spread on six storeys: 4 themed suites 3 Studio suites 13 club rooms 77 executive rooms 65 Superior rooms Sarova panafric also has fully serviced apartments including 30 one-bedroom and 15 two-bedroom apartments.

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RElAx, YOU’RE AT SAROvA wHiTESANDS BEAcH RESORT & SpA One of the largest and most luxurious hotels on the Kenyan coast, with one of the longest beach fronts, is the popular Sarova whitesands Beach Resort & Spa, located in the popular north coast resort area, less than 20 km from Mombasa.

Sarova whitesands Beach Resort & Spa is the epitome of luxury on the Kenyan coast. As well as providing a host of deeply relaxing activities for leisure travellers, it caters for business travellers during the day and helps them relax and unwind in the evening. The hotel has one of the most developed health spas on the Kenyan coast, guaranteeing the ultimate in relaxation for both leisure and business travellers.

The Sarova whitesands Beach Resort & Spa has created a unique niche for itself as a location for beach weddings, honeymoons and wedding receptions at the coast. its long beach frontage, beautifully manicured green lawns, spacious ballroom and large pool play into the bigger picture of a truly successful wedding and honeymoon location.

This beach resort has some of the best conference facilities on the north coast and has hosted various high-level meetings and conferences. These have included an international conference by the Swedish-based cosmetic maker Oriflame which brought

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together more than 3,000 participants. The conference rooms include the Makutano, Fahari and Baraza halls, all of which are equipped with the latest audio visual equipment and lcD projectors. The resort has a wide range of restaurants and bars. These include the pavilion i and ii restaurants, accommodating up to 680 people at a sitting. Buffet breakfasts, lunches and themed dinners are served here. The Minazi café is open 24 hours a day and serves mouth-watering snacks and a children’s menu.

The lido Seafood grill, overlooking the ocean, is the resort’s fine dining restaurant. with a capacity of up to 45 people, the restaurant serves some of the finest seafood menus on Bamburi Beach and is open every day except Mondays. cocos Beach Bar is a favourite with guests. This open-air bar is sandwiched between palm trees overlooking the indian Ocean.

The Tulia Health Bar serves health meals, fresh juices and salads.

The Tulia Spa, arguably one of the best health spas on the north coast, offers the leisure and business traveller a wide range of therapies to relax the mind, body and soul. Among the therapies on offer are Ayurvedic, western and Oriental. Therapists can also tailor a spa experience to suit the individual needs of the guest or couple staying at the resort on their honeymoon.

accommoDation Sarova Whitesands Beach resort & Spa is arguably one of the largest beach resorts on the Kenyan coast. the resort has a total of 338 rooms, spread over three storeys, including: 2 presidential suites 3 rooms for the physically handicapped 6 executive suites 66 palm rooms 128 Seafront rooms 133 Standard rooms. all rooms have a complimentary coffee and tea making facility. they also have a private balcony opening to the sea or with a pool view.

ExpERiENcE THE MigRATiON iN THE MARA As one of the seven wonders of the natural world, where the largest wildlife migration is recorded annually, the famous Masai Mara National Reserve captures the imagination of every nature lover. Boasting a wildlife density and diversity like no other game reserve in Kenya, the Masai Mara is the epitome of a bush safari in Africa.

Africa. The biggest attraction, of course, is the wildebeest migration, which takes place every year between August and October.

The commotion that occurs as the wildebeest and large herds of zebra and gazelle cross the treacherous waters of the Mara River, to the delight of the hungry crocodiles in the earth-coloured waters, is an impressive experience, to say the least.

when you combine the true spirit of an African safari with the refreshingly African hospitality enjoyed at the Sarova Mara game camp, you have a winner; because the Sarova Mara game camp offers not only wild safari excitement, but also front-row seats to the greatest show of all – the wildebeest migration. And what a spectacle that is.

actiVitieS

The camp is located deep inside the Masai Mara National Reserve, about five hours from Nairobi by road and a short 40-minute hop by plane. The camp is set on an elevation surrounded by two streams and is uniquely laid out over the sprawling grounds, which include rolling, manicured greens, a virtual mini forest of indigenous shrubs and exotic trees, a large pond stocked with fish, a bird sanctuary and an authentic Maasai village adjoining the camp, all guaranteed to enhance the overall guest experience of

The camp also provides delightful bush dinners, breakfasts and lunches at numerous spots across the game reserve. it is a preferred destination for bush weddings and honeymoons.

accommoDation the camp has 20 club tents, 51 standard tents, two family tents, a main restaurant, a bar and many bush dining options. the free-form swimming pool has its own pool bar.

The camp offers morning and afternoon safaris in the game reserve, where wild animals can be seen in their natural habitat.

The camp has an excellent eet of safari vehicles and deeply knowledgeable guides.

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wATcH THE FlAMiNgO DANcE iN NAKURU Sitting on an isolated hill in the scenic lake Nakuru National park, the Sarova lion Hill game lodge offers the ultimate weekend and holiday getaway. its location just a few kilometres from Nakuru and about two hours’ drive from Nairobi makes it an ideal family getaway location guaranteeing ultimate relaxation.

Thanks to its position, The Sarova lion Hill game lodge enjoys a spectacular view of the pink-ringed, alkaline waters of lake Nakuru. guests have an unobstructed view of the lake from the balconies of their chalets, arranged on four levels up the hill. The Sarova lion Hill game lodge is one of only two game lodges inside the lake Nakuru National park. lake Nakuru National park is a birdwatchers’ paradise. The park is home to over 450 bird species and it is possible to spot up to 100 different bird species within one hour. Sarova lion Hill game lodge employs the services of David ole Naso, a Maasai with deep knowledge of the resident and migratory birds within the park. David is a talented guide who takes guests on informative nature walks around the lodge. lake Nakuru National park is home to the world’s largest flamingo population. The flamingos come to feed on the lake’s algae-rich alkaline waters. Every year, immediately after the long

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rains, the famous mating dance, a well orchestrated routine conducted by the lesser flamingos, is worth watching.

As well as a birding haven, lake Nakuru National park is a successful rhino breeding sanctuary with large numbers of endangered white and black rhinos. Owing to the park’s small size, it is easy to spot game.

actiVitieS Sarova lion Hill game lodge organises a range of activities within the grounds of the lodge and in the park. These include: • cultural dances each evening round a bonfire

accommoDation 67 Ground-floor chalets spread across four levels on the gently sloping lion Hill.

46 Superior rooms 18 Deluxe rooms 3 Suites

• Bush breakfasts and off-site sundowner cocktails.

• Morning and afternoon game drives

amenitieS

• Animation programmes for children

• Two conference halls with overhead and lcD projector

• Nature and birdwatching walks in the lodge grounds

• Flamingo Restaurant serving breakfasts, lunches and dinners

• Tree planting programmes as part of conservation efforts by the property in collaboration with various agencies including the Kenya wildlife Service (KwS)

• Rift valley Bar

• Bush weddings and honeymoons

• Massage tent overlooking the lake.

A UNiQUE DESigN iN A MAgicAl SETTiNg Sarova Salt lick game lodge, 7 km from the Sarova Taita Hills game lodge, features a unique architectural design and style.

The entire property is built above ground, yet it conforms to the traditional homesteads of the local Taita tribe who inhabit the region. The rondavels, built on stilts, are an imaginative reproduction of the local ancestral abodes.

The lodge has 96 oval rooms, all overlooking a waterhole. practically every day, this attracts a large array of wildlife, including elephants, especially in the evenings, when they come to drink water and lick the salt.

The sanctuary has a large dam and small ponds where young crocodiles are bred. Young hippos are to be introduced to the sanctuary, as well as rhinos.

As part of its conservation efforts, the property is keen to make local communities and guests more aware of conservation matters through an elaborate tree-planting programme within the sanctuary.

accommoDation Sarova Salt lick Game lodge has 96 rooms built over two oors.

55 twin-bed rooms 41 Double-bed rooms

The underground tunnel at Sarova Salt lick game Reserve is a wonderful spot for viewing wild game such as elephants and buffalos that come to drink from the water pan near the lodge.

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gET clOSER TO wilD gAME iN TAiTA Sarova Taita Hills game lodge offers luxury accommodation and is the ultimate base from which to explore Africa’s largest game park. The creeper-covered stone buildings bring English country charm to the African plains and guests have the opportunity to enjoy first-class service and facilities in an unforgettable setting.

This magnificent property offers a wide range of business and entertainment options, with two conference rooms capable of accommodating up to 100 participants.

SpaciouS The lodge has 62 rooms with two suites, a swimming pool, a spacious lobby, a boutique, a restaurant, meeting rooms and a conference hall and is located next to a well maintained air strip.

The Sarova Taita Hills game lodge is located within the privately owned Taita Hills wildlife Sanctuary, a protected area consisting of 28,000 acres of semi-permeable terrain. This in turn forms part of the greater Tsavo ecosystem, which covers about 40,000 sq km.

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The sanctuary is home to huge animal populations that include large herds of elephant, buffalo, giraffe, zebra and resident lions. in addition, the sanctuary is home to more than 350 bird species.

The sanctuary nestles in the lower zones of the surrounding Taita Hills. These form part of the Eastern Arc Mountains range, which is recognised by the international Union for the conservation of Nature (iUcN) and world wide Fund for Nature (wwF) as conservation area of global significance. Moreover, the overall game viewing experience is enhanced, because the sanctuary is located within the wildlife migratory corridors that link Tsavo East and Tsavo west game reserves.

amenitieS • The lodge features a large restaurant and bar • Sarova Taita Hills game lodge has a large pool and two conference halls.

accommoDation Sarova taita Hills Game lodge has 62 rooms spread over three storeys.

2 Suites 20 twin-bed rooms 31 Double-bed rooms 9 triple-bed rooms

ExpERiENcE THE SAMBURU SpEciAl FivE On the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River, in the northern frontier county of isiolo, sits the jewel of the north – Sarova Shaba game lodge – arguably Kenya’s best-kept secret. The lodge is located in the Shaba National Reserve, about 8 km from the great North Road that links cape Town in the south with cairo in the north via Nairobi. Thanks to the newly constructed tarmac road from isiolo to Moyale on the Kenya-Ethiopia border, access to the lodge from Nairobi is now easy. it is in this location that guests can see and experience the Samburu Special Five. These include: gerenuk, Samburu ostrich, grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe and Oryx.

A natural spring lies within the grounds of the lodge and waters trickle down in small streams and fountains under footbridges and along footpaths in front of the single-storey chalets lining the river frontage. The well manicured lawns and the doum palms around the chalets provide the guest with peace and tranquillity.

This is Born Free world.

Sarova Shaba game lodge is the only game lodge within Shaba National Reserve. it stands on the picturesque banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River. guests can watch the crocodiles at night and early in the morning as they feed on the banks. The crocodiles can also be seen basking on the giant rocks that line the river.

Known as ‘The lover’s Nest’, the lodge has been synonymous with bush weddings and honeymoons, romantic bush dinners, breakfasts and lunches. There are many places where such romantic getaways can be arranged, including The Beach, a large, sand-covered dry river bed at the bottom of a cliff where sundowners and dinners are served. The Boma, within the grounds of the lodge, is a spot where themed dinners are served.

Morning and afternoon game drives from the lodge to Buffalo Springs & Shaba National Reserve and Samburu National Reserve can be organised. Because the lodge works closely with the local Samburu, Turkana and Borana communities, visits to their traditional homesteads and villages are also organised.

The lodge is also a wonderful team-building and conference venue for corporates. The Sarova Shaba Survivor challenge is a set of challenging activities that require individual and team spirit to complete successfully. it includes a range of activities such as mountaineering, rock climbing, clue solving and cook-outs at various venues including the magnificent Msilima gorges within the reserve. All this makes for a highly engaging team experience.

accommoDation there are 85 rooms spread over the one-storey chalets, with each block having four rooms. these include: 1 presidential suite with a private lounge and Jacuzzi. private breakfasts, lunches and dinners can be served here.

4 executive suites with private lounge 70 Standard rooms – 40 twin, 15 double and 15 triple 10 Deluxe rooms – 5 double and 5 twin.

Buffet breakfasts, lunches and dinners are served at the Surpelei Restaurant, a large, tree-level restaurant. A pool and a lounge bar are also provided.

The lodge has a conference room accommodating up to 150 people. The room comes with audio-visual equipment and secretarial services are available.

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Zawadi

– A wORlD BlOSSOMiNg wiTH REwARDS

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SAROVA ZAWADI

i

magine stress-free personalised holidays, guaranteed reservations, don’t-tell-anyone special offers and express check-ins. imagine free wireless internet connectivity and free family holidays. Stop. now imagine you can get all the above and more with just one card: the Sarova Zawadi card.

Earning points is so easy. Simply present your Sarova zawadi card when paying your bill and Sarova will credit points to your account.

Earn

EARNiNg pOiNTS iS EASY. SiMplY pRESENT YOUR SAROvA zAwADi cARD wHEN pAYiNg YOUR Bill AND SAROvA will cREDiT pOiNTS

one

point for every KES zawadi is the Swahili word for ‘reward’ or ‘gift’.

100 spent for zawadi Red and two points for

As the name suggests: Sarova zawadi rewards

every KES 150 spent for zawadi platinum.

you for enjoying Sarova’s Refreshing African Hospitality. what’s more, it rewards you for

To convert your zawadi points into rewards from

transacting with participating partners.

Sarova and participating partners, simply visit the Sarova website or contact the Sarova office and

Every time you enjoy any of Sarova’s services,

quote what you would like as redemption.

products and facilities, you earn points. The more points you earn, the more rewards and privileges you are entitled to.

Welcome reWarDS Sarova rewards begin immediately you sign up.

There are two levels of rewards: zawadi Red,

As soon as your membership has been proc-

your entry point to a world of rewards; and

essed, you are entitled to:

zawadi platinum, your upgrade for earning 2,000 points and above.

• A complimentary night’s stay for two at any Sarova property

A joining fee of KES 6,000 is charged upon registration and membership is renewed on an annual basis.

• A bottle of wine • A complimentary massage • One suit laundered for free • A complimentary pass to the health club.

To start earning your rewards, visit www.sarovahotels.com to enrol or contact the Sarova zawadi team on sarovazawadi@sarovahotels.com

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What’s cooking

Rack and loin of rabbit

stuffed with poached carrot wrapped in smoked ham, white wine deglaze jus

By Chef John Maina, Sarova Mara Game Camp

INGREDIENTS Rabbit meat: 100 g loin of rabbit 50 g rack of rabbit 40 g salted butter 150 ml white wine 90 ml olive oil 3 g thyme Medium-sized round carrot 10 cm peeled Sliced smoked ham, onion, garlic salt, white pepper, leek and celery

Caramelized sweet potato: 1 yellow sweet potato, peeled and 2 cm cubed 1 cinnamon stick 1 star anise 1 tablespoons white sugar 0.5 litre water Wilted spinach: 1 leaf fresh spinach 10 ml extra virgin olive oil 10 g salted butter Garlic, salt and pepper

Method:

time should be 9-10 mins or when, using a

1. For the caramelized sweet potato, in

roasting thermometer, it attains a core of

a saucepan of water, add cubed sweet

65°C. Remove both pieces. Cover with foil to

potato, star anise, cinnamon stick and

rest for 3 mins. Add the remaining white wine

white sugar. Bring the water to a boil,

to the pan and deglaze for the serving sauce.

simmer and let water reduce till the sweet

Add 20 g of butter. Stir to thicken and set aside

potato is covered with a nice glossy shine.

for service.

2. For the carrot, 10 g butter until foaming.

4. Trim the spinach leaves from the stems

Add celery, chopped garlic, onion and then

and discard the stems. Thinly slice the

sauté leek until tender. Add carrot and cook for

garlic into slivers. Heat a large sauté pan

3 minutes. Add 100 ml wine and 100 ml water.

over medium heat for 30 seconds. Add the

Season to taste with salt and white pepper and

butter and, when half of it has melted, add

reduce over a low heat. Remove carrot once

the garlic. Cook, stirring constantly, for about

cooked but firm tender.

45 seconds or until the garlic is tender and fragrant. Add the spinach leaves and season

3. Spread the loin of rabbit onto a meat

with salt and pepper. Use tongs or a spatula

chopping board, sprinkle with thyme, then

to stir the spinach so it cooks evenly. Remove

evenly spread the smoked ham. Place

from heat when all spinach leaves have wilted.

the carrot in the middle and roll the loin over to create a firm round shape. Using

5. To serve, place wilted spinach on the

kitchen cotton thread, tie both the stuffed

plate. Add the caramelized sweet potato

loin and rack. Refrigerate for one hour.

cubes and top with the rack of rabbit. Slice

Heat 20 g butter and extra virgin olive oil

1 inch slices of rabbit loin and place beside

in a pressed garlic rubbed small frying pan

carrot. Arrange cherry tomatoes on the

over medium heat. Add the loin and rack of

outer plate inner rim and drizzle with white

rabbit and the thyme. Cook each side for

wine deglaze jus.

three minutes, ensuring you attain a nice golden brown on all sides evenly. Cooking

Bon appetit!