22 images Created 7 Apr 2020
Swahili Pulse
Lamu is East Africa's most intact Swahili settlement and Kenya's oldest continually inhabited town. The town is believed to be established in 1370 and has a colourful history of influence by the Portuguese, Omani and Zanzibari. For a long time the town served as a trading post for seafaring Arabs, Indian and the local Africans. More recent history has Lamu county and Lamu island being subject to conflict, the threat is always present but periods of calm will follow. The island is tucked away in Manda Bay on the northern coast of Kenya, it is a popular weekend getaway and artist retreat for both Kenyan's and foreigners who needs some quiet time to write, create and relax. Life in Lamu is lived in the street, the narrow winding alleyways are the veins of the island, donkeys, wheel barrows, street vendors, but no cars... Tourism is an essential part of the economy offering guided tours of the town, dhow trips including fishing and sundowners and beautiful beaches with Indian Ocean views, Lamu is truly a place to escape the pace of modern day city life.
