Your free in-flight magazine
Evans Bukuku Tanzania’s king of comedy Page 14
Page 22
MUSTAFA HASSANALI
Tanzania’s talented fashion designer
Page 36
JO’BURG IN THE SLOW LANE Fantastic things to do
Page 46
SAGAR CHAVDA
fastjet’s director of flight operations
Issue 09
January - March 2015
31
Fab Lira South African songstress
CONTENTS Issue 09 | January - March 2015
REGULAR FEATURES
SPECIAL FEATURES
USEFUL INFORMATION
3 WELCOME
18 ELEPHANT GIN
10 FASTJET COMPETITION
9 FASTJET NEWS 11 SOCIAL MEDIA WALL 50 LOOK INSIDE
22 MUSTAFA HASSANALI
26 48 HOURS IN LUSAKA
12 FASTJET SNACK MENU 62 TRAVEL INFORMATION 64 THE FASTJET NETWORK
53 FOOD FOR THOUGHT
31 LIRA
travelsmart
A message from fastjet’s general manager
Laico Lake Victoria Hotel
The Carnival, Kampala
54 CAR REVIEW
Mitsubishi Outlander
57 TECH REVIEW
Tech Hubs
58 LATEST RELEASES
What’s new in your bookshop and cinema
61 KIDS’ CORNER
You’ll never forget your first Elephant Gin… Marvellous Mustafa makes us all feel better From fine eateries to man-eating crocs 10 years strong
36 JO’BURG
Smart Thinking
Smart Shopping
Smart Travel
Published by
41 EVENTS – JANUARY TO MARCH 44 BIG FIVE
ADVERTISING: Catherine O’Callaghan, Sales Manager Tel: +44 (0)1206 752902 Cell: +44 (0)7769 110343 Email: travelsmart@landmarine.org
In the slow lane
Football, fishing and fun-filled festivals They may be flying beside you
46 SAGAR CHAVDA
EVANS BUKUKU
48 SOLAR ENERGY
14
Win a holiday package for two
LAND & MARINE PUBLICATIONS LTD 1 Kings Court, Newcomen Way Severalls Business Park, Colchester Essex CO4 9RA, United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)1206 752902 Email: publishing@landmarine.com www.landmarine.com
COVER STORY Tanzania’s undisputed king of comedy
on behalf of
Still reaching for the sky…. Are we in the dark about solar power?
Registered Office and Head Office, Suite 2C, First Point Buckingham Gate, Gatwick Airport, RH6 0NT Tel: +44 (0)20 3651 6355 Email: info@fastjet.com www.fastjet.com The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the editor, or any other organisation associated with this publication. No liability can be accepted for any inaccuracies or omissions. ©2014 Land & Marine Publications Ltd
fastjet.com
1
FROM THE CONTROL TOWER A message from Chief Executive Jimmy Kibati
WELCOME ON BOARD KARIBU KWENYE NDEGE YETU WELKOM AAN BOORD KARIBU KWENYE NDEGE YETU Karibu, Kwa Furaha kubwa napenda kuwakaribisha katika ndege yetu ya fastjet, shirika la ndege linalopendwa barani Afrika. Siku ya tarehe 29 Novemba 2014, tulisheherekea kutimiza miaka miwili kwa fastjet kuendesha shughuli za usafirishaji wa abiria nchini Tanzania. Kwa kipindi chote hicho cha miaka miwili tumeweza kubeba abiria wapatao 900,000 kwa safari zaidi ya 8,200. Tumeweza kuvunja rekodi za usafiri wa anga barani Afrika kwa kuendelea kutoa huduma zenye ubora wa hali ya juu, uhakika na kujali muda wa safari, pia wateja wengi zaidi wameweza kusafiri kwa fastjet na kujionea ubora wa ndege zetu. Tukijibu baadhi ya maoni ya wateja, tumeanzisha mambo kadhaa ya ziada: Shehena (Mizigo) – Tumezingatia kwamba abiria wengi wanaosafiri kwenda nje ya nchi, wanapendelea kubeba mizigo mingi wakati wanarudi nyumbani, tumeanzisha mpango mpya wa kubeba mizigo mingi, Mpango huu unawaruhusu abiria kusafiri na mizigo isiyozidi 80kg kwa $80. SmartClass – Mpango wetu mpya wa huduma kwa abiria wa hali ya juu (SmartClass) kwa safari za hapa nchini na za kimataifa ambao unatoa fursa kwa abiria kuchagua siti ya kukaa, nyongeza ya uzito wa mizigo hadi kufikia 32kg na pia kubadili tarehe za kusafiri zisizokuwa na kikomo bila gharama za ziada. Sehemu ya Kupumzika Uwanja wa Ndege - Wateja wanaosafiri nje ya
BREAKING AFRICAN AVIATION RECORDS I would like to give you my warm personal welcome on board fastjet, East-Africa’s most liked airline.
tuality have continued to break African aviation records, with more and more customers experiencing smart travel with fastjet.
On 29 November we celebrated the second anniversary of fastjet operations in Tanzania. During those two years we have carried more than 900,000 passengers on over 8,200 flights. Our consistently high standards, reliability and punc-
Responding to customer feedback, we have introduced a number of optional extras: • Freighty – Recognising that many of our passengers on international flights want to carry large
Smart travel Reliable and punctual
fastjet.com
3
nchi kutoka au kuja Dar es Salaam sasa wanaweza kulipia sehemu maalum ya kupumzika wakati wakisubiri kuondoka au baada ya kufika katika ukumbi wa Tanzanite Lounge uliopo katika Uwanja wa Ndege wa Kimataifa wa Julius Nyerere. Tumekuwa na mipango mingi ya kusisimua kuhusu safari zetu mpya za fastjet, na hivi karibuni tumefakiwa kupewa kibali usafirishaji wa anga na Wizara ya Usafirishaji ya Zambia cha kuendesha shughuli zetu nchini humo. Hii ni hatua muhimu ya kwanza kwa fastjet kuruhusiwa na kuendesha shughuli zake za usafirishaji wa anga za ndani ya Zambia na za kimataifa kutokea nchini humo. Kwa kuunganisha maeneo mengi yenye utalii, tunategemea kuimarisha sekta ya Utalii wa Zambia na kuufanya usafiri wa anga kuwa na muonekano mpya kwa watu wa Zambia kutokana na nauli ya bei nafuu na wa hali ya juu. Na kwa wale abiria wanaofikiria safari za kwenda mahali pazuri, Fastjet ikishirikiana na shirika la ndege la Coastal Aviation limeweza kutoa huduma ya kuunganisha ndege kwa abiria wetu wanaotoka Afrika Kusini kuunganisha ndege kwenda Zanzibar wanapofanya manunuzi ya tiketi kwenda Dar es Salaam. Tumeongeza idadi ya safari za ndani ya Tanzania ili kuwaridhisha wateja ambao kila siku wanaongezeka katika hizi safari za uhakika na maarufu za fastjet, kuwapa wateja wetu uchaguzi zaidi wa safari za ndege. Pia hivi karibuni tumeongeza safari za kimataifa kwenda Entebbe katika mtandao wetu, na pia tutatangaza safari zaidi za kimataifa ambazo zitaifanya fastjet kuwa shirika imara lenye kuaminika na kutoa huduma bora kwa wateja wengi zaidi. Kupata habari kuhusu safari mpya zilizotangazwa na ofa kabambe tembelea fastjet.com au ukurasa wa facebook. Tuna imani kwamba umefurahia safari yako na fasjet leo. Wako, Jimmy Kibati General Manager Fastjet Airlines Ltd (Tanzania)
amounts of baggage when they return home, we have introduced a special new baggage deal. Freighty allows passengers to travel with up to 80 kg for $80. • Smartclass – Our new Smartclass service provides customers on both domestic and international flights with advance premium seat allocation, an increased baggage allowance of up to 32 kg and unlimited flight date changes at no additional cost. • Airport lounge – Customers on our international flights to and from Dar es Salaam can now purchase access to the Tanzanite lounge at Julius Nyerere International Airport.
First step We have some exciting plans for new routes at fastjet and we have recently been granted an Air Service Permit by the Zambian Ministry of Transport. This is an important first step towards fastjet being allowed to operate air services on domestic routes within Zambia as well as serving international destinations from the country. By connecting tourist hotspots, we aim to help strengthen Zambia’s tourism industry by bringing air travel and our great-value low fares to a whole new demographic. And for those dreaming of a trip to paradise, fastjet – in cooperation with Coastal Aviation – now provides an onward flight from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar for our South African passengers.
We have introduced extra frequencies on our domestic Tanzanian routes to satisfy the ever-growing demand on these popular and convenient routes, giving our customer further flight options.
For those dreaming of a trip to paradise, fastjet now provides an onward flight from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar We have also recently added Entebbe to our international route network; and over the coming months we will be announcing even more international connections that will bring the fastjet ethos of reliability and great value to many more customers. Look out for new route announcements and special offers at fastjet.com or on our Facebook pages. We hope you enjoy your flight with fastjet today. Sincerely,
Jimmy Kibati General Manager Fastjet Airlines Ltd (Tanzania)
fastjet.com
5
02 New headquarters
FASTJET CELEBRATES ITS SECOND BIRTHDAY A milestone was reached on 29 November 2014 when fastjet marked the second anniversary of its inaugural flight from Julius Nyerere International Airport and the start of low-cost air travel in Africa. Since then fastjet has expanded to eight destinations across five countries with many more to come.
DID YOU KNOW ? Fastjet has been granted an Air Service permit from the authorities in Zambia allowing us to operate domestic & international routes
The fastjet headquarters and Safasha ticketing office in Tanzania has now moved to 10 West Building on Pugu Road just after the Vingunguti Junction. Head for the ticketing office to buy your fastjet tickets or call us 24/7 on +255 784 108 900 for more information.
03 An airline for winners Tanzanian recording artist Diamond and his crew members chose fastjet to take them to the Channel O Africa Music Awards. The airline must have brought him luck as he won three out of the four awards he was nominated for at the South African ceremony. Congratulations, Diamond!
The Swahili version of the fastjet website is now live.
01 Take up the challenge The airline is challenging its passengers to run a 5 km, 21 km or full marathon event on 1 March in Moshi. There will also be races for wheelchair and racing chair athletes across 10 km. Moshi comes alive during this weekend, with thousands of people pouring into the little town to take advantage of its great choice of restaurants, bars and places to stay. It’s an event not to be missed.
Follow us www.fastjet.com m.fastjet.com www.facebook.com/fastjet www.facebook.com/fastjetza www.twitter.com/fastjet www.instagram.com/fastjetofficial
Against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, competitors follow scenic routes through villages and farmland including spectacular coffee plantations and tree-shaded avenues.Â
DID YOU KNOW ?
Local people turn out in force to cheer them on. So why not get your running shoes out, start training and fastjet will see you there. For more information visit: www.kilimanjaromarathon.com
The airline now flies from Tanzania to Uganda four times a week.
fastjet.com
9
WHO’LL BE OUR TOP CAT? Caption competition Do you fancy winning a return flight for two from Entebbe to Dar es Salaam – plus a one-night stay in Dar es Salaam’s Landmark Resort Hotel? Simply take a look at these lion cubs from the Serengeti National Park and let us know what you think they’re saying to each other.
Email your Cat Caption Competition entry to socialmedia@fastjet.com and you will be entered in the prize draw. We will even share the best ones on Facebook and will be announcing the winner of the competition in the next edition of travelsmart on 1 April 2015. Good luck! Congratulations to Epaphra Amana who won the competition in the previous issue.
12
travelsmart
fastjet.com
13
EvansBukuku
Evans Bukuku
TANZANIA’S UNDISPUTED
KING OF COMEDY Evans Bukuku is a household name in Tanzania thanks to the tummy-hurting, eye-watering fits of laughter induced by his comedy shows, which have become one of the eagerly awaited monthly events in Dar es Salaam. By Sakina Nanabhai
T
he story behind the success of comedian Evans Bukuku is just as interesting as his comedy scripts. Contrary to what you might imagine, comedy was far from being his first job. He began with a diverse range of occupations that had little or nothing to do with
14
travelsmart
stand-up comedy. Before becoming the nation’s favourite comedian he sold sausages in Arusha, worked as a door-to-door salesman, drove a truck, ran a mobile hot tea service and then got a job as a radio presenter. Evans believes all these jobs
have broadened his world view and assisted his career as a stand-up comedian.
Family support Speaking about family support, Evans says: “I started comedy at a point when I was already well settled >
fastjet.com
15
EvansBukuku and earning good money, so my family had no objections to the idea. I one day decided that I wanted to go into stand-up comedy and my family members were like: ‘Okay, we will support you.’ So there was never really a battle to get it there.” Reminiscing on the past, he adds: “I always had a funny side to me, and my friends kept insisting me to become a comedian when I was in school. But although I knew I wanted to be a comedian, I never gave it a shot until in 2009.”
Starting off His first break came in 2009 when he did a small gig at a beach resort. The show happened in a haphazard manner and he was a tad anxious and nervous; but since then he has never looked back. Evans began an unstoppable series of comedy shows that drew followers, fans and, of course, gales of laughter from every corner. On the matter of progress in the field of comedy, Evans is clear that getting into comedy is no laughing matter. “There is a whole lot of background work to do before becoming a comedian,” he says. “You have to know your strengths, your style, what kind of audience do you target and do a lot of practice. Comedy should not be just about making money or being popular. It should be about entertaining your audiences and making them like you as a comedian.” Evans’s scripts are mostly a lighthearted reflection of African life in general. “My scripts are inspired from life around me, things I see, current affairs – basically life in Tanzania.” As well as being a comedian, Evans is a popular radio show host, and this is another source of inspiration for his script-writing. “Since I also do a radio show, I have a lot of
‘My scripts are inspired from life around me’ news coming to me from different corners of Tanzania. Also, I get to know, meet and hear from different people, which immensely helps me with my script-writing.”
Popular Asked about the popular ‘Spontaneous VS Scripted’ comedy shows debate, Evans explains: “For a place like Tanzania, where so many cultures live together, and where comedy has not evolved so much, one cannot go with completely spontaneous comedy shows. It is always a good idea to make a script first, practise it and know the opinions of peers, because one cannot be sure about how exactly people will react to it. While you are on stage, you become super-aware of people around you, so I prefer scripted comedy as it ensures that I can practise before the show. Right at the moment I feel I am good to go, and that is when I get on stage to
Evans in action Entertaining audiences
conduct my comedy shows.” Evans is credited with being the man who revived the comedy scene in Tanzania. There were comedy acts before Evans came on the scene, but usually in very informal settings – travelling shows or small theatrical performances in bars or clubs. Speaking about the comedy scene now, Evans says he believes there is still a lot to change. “Comedy in Tanzania is still done on a very safer side, as we make a very conservative society,” he says. “So one has to be very careful about what they speak while on the stage. The issue of conservativeness affects the pace of growth of the comedy scene in Tanzania. Therefore, you would want to do comedy from a safe distance, and that avoids you from venturing into newer ideas. So, as an artist, you limit yourself and do not take risks. I wish to see a freer form of comedy, where local comedians can take risks, and come up with newer topics to perform comedy acts on.”
fastjet.com
17
18
travelsmart
ElephantGin
You’ll never forget
YOUR FIRST ELEPHANT GIN… By Gary Gimson
I
t sounds like an improbable combination – elephant and gin – but in Africa the two have joined forces in a fragrant new tipple. Elephant Gin is a decidedly upmarket and exquisitely packaged brand that brings together a concern for animal conversation and the myster-
ies of the spirit-makers’ craft. To many, Elephant Gin will conjure up sepia-tinted images of a by-gone era with oak-panelled gentlemen’s clubs, shady verandas overlooking manicured lawns and the first drink of the day served by a faithful bearer as the sun disappears over the yardarm. Yet Elephant Gin is no homage to an earlier time. It is contemporary, but also quirky – a true London dry
gin in style, but distilled in Hamburg. So what is the connection with Africa? Well, the brand’s founding trio, Robin Gerlach, Tessa Wienker and Henry Palmer, are all equally passionate about the continent and share a deep concern about the impact of poaching and the resulting drop in elephant numbers in some countries. As a result, the makers of Elephant Gin are donating 15 per cent of any profits to two conversation-focused charities: the Big Life Foundation and Space for Elephants (see panel stories on page 21).
Ingredients The gin is 45 per cent alcohol by volume (ABV) and contains no fewer than 14 botanicals, including a warmth-giving ginger and a littleknown herb called buchu, which >
fastjet.com
19
ElephantGin
Big Life Foundation
grows in the Western Cape. Buchu gives a sweet blackcurrant-like taste to the gin. In days gone by, buchu was used to perfume the bodies of the Cape’s indigenous people such as the Khoikhoi. “The ingredients also include baobab – that superfruit of the savanna – as well as African wormwood, which introduces a sharp floral note, and lion’s tail, sometimes
Space for Elephants Foundation A foundation focused on restoring the old migratory routes lost when many game reserves were fenced in, isolating elephants in ‘pockets’, breaking up extended herds and hampering biodiversity. The aim of Space for Elephants is to give freedom for a hundred thousand elephants to range freely across Africa, using centuries-old trails that were once a lifeline.
known as wild dagga”. Then there are classic botanicals such as juniper, cassia bark and sweet orange peel, plus locally sourced spring water, fresh apples and other select ingredients designed to enhance the purity and smoothness of the gin’s finish. There are no artificial flavourings in the post-distillation process.
Subtle aroma The end result is a distinct nose that first yields a subtle juniper aroma with an undertone of mountain pine and other herbaceous notes. The taste is complex but strikingly smooth, encompassing floral, fruity and spicy flavours which can be enjoyed both straight and in a cocktail; or, of course, in traditional colonial style with a splash of tonic. Elephant Gin is produced using a traditional copper still. Refined in
An anti-poaching organisation that employs 315 rangers, with 31 outposts and 15 vehicles, to protect 2 million acres of wilderness in Kenya’s Amboseli-Tsavo ecosystem. Through its innovative conservation strategies, the foundation addresses the greatest threats while also looking to the economic interests of the Maasai people in ways that improve the quality of life for the whole community. small batches of just 800 bottles, the gin is tasted regularly as it comes off the still to ensure that any impurities in the heads and tails are removed. The whole process gives the gin its purity, complexity and smoothness. Each batch is named after a great elephant of the past or present. This gives an even more personal touch than the batch numbers normally associated with hand-crafted spirits. At around US$ 50 a bottle this spirit does not come cheap. But for those who appreciate the finer things in life, while wishing to make a positive contribution towards wildlife conversation, it is probably money well spent. fastjet.com
21
MustafaHassanali
From qualified doctor to global fashion guru…
MARVELLOUS MUSTAFA
MAKES US ALL FEEL BETTER Mustafa Hassanali is not just one of the most celebrated fashion designers in Tanzania; he has become a household name in East Africa. A qualified doctor as well as a creator of fine clothes, 34-year-old Mustafa has vigorously promoted his country’s talent and put Tanzania’s fashion industry
22
travelsmart
firmly on the world map. Among other shows, Swahili Fashion Week has acted as a platform for home-grown fashion talent, making Tanzania a force to reckon with. Mustafa talks to travelsmart about his most recent shows, his tips for would-be fashionistas and his plans for the future.
Q. What first sparked your interest in a career in fashion? A. I never ever thought in my wildest dreams that I would have a career in the fashion industry. But I must say I was always interested in fashion – I presume it was born in me. I started with dressing paper dolls, moved up to cake dolls and then finally I started dressing real-life models. When I started I had no one to look up to, there was no internet
and many television channels didn’t have fashion programmes. But beauty pageants such as Miss World, Miss Universe, Miss Tanzania and Miss India quenched my thirst for fashion in the very early stages of my life. CNN Style with Elsa Klensch would also fuel my passion at a time when I never had the slightest inclination that I would have a career in design. As far as I knew, I would be a doctor or a plastic surgeon. Q. Was it hard breaking into the industry? A. There wasn’t a fashion industry in Tanzania when I started designing as a hobby. Although there were lots of tailors, there were just a handful of designers. However, I can proudly say that I have helped catapult change and today we are moving towards having an organised, structured fashion industry.
Q. What tips would you give for success in the fashion business?
15th anniversary in Dar es Salaam. The year started with the Muungano Collection, launched in Moscow and hosted by the Tanzanian Embassy on the 50th anniversary of the Union of Tanganyika and Zanzibar. Thereafter we launched my 11th showcase in South Africa at the Sanaa Africa Festival to celebrate Africa Day. To celebrate my 15th anniversary I launched the Meremeta Na
A. My eight P’s are passion, patience, persistence, productivity, professionalism, principles, prayer and profit. Another tip would be to use your close friends and family to be evangelists of your designs. Q. Is it hard juggling such a successful career with home life? A. I am married to my work, so it doesn’t really affect me. I have some amazing people in my life and it’s great to be able to wind down with them. Sometimes I become a couch potato and just sit in front of my TV screen.
I never ever thought in my wildest dreams that I would have a career in the fashion industry
Q. What kind of year has 2014 been? A. It has been a great year. We showcased three collections in four countries and also celebrated my
Zimbabwe Fashion Week A great success
Hassanali collection, which was then showcased in Zimbabwe and Zambia. Of all my shows, which have featured in 29 cities in 20 countries around the world, that was one of my most memorable. I had heard so much negativity about Zimbabwe; but it’s only >
fastjet.com
23
MustafaHassanali when you go there that you realise how false it is. The fashion industry in Zimbabwe is vibrant and my trip was a success as I got to interact with various stakeholders in fashion, from the media to amazing designers. So all in all it was a blessed year in my fashion career. Q. What has been your greatest achievement so far? A. At various stages of my career I have been blessed with achievements, but some have been life-changing experiences. In 2003 I was a judge and designer for the Miss Ethiopia pageant, I had my first showcase outside the African continent in Italy in 2004 and in 2007 partnered with TanzaniteOne to showcase tanzanite jewellery in Cape Town. I was a judge and designer for the pan-African modelling competition M-Net Face of Africa in 2008. The following year I was approached by British supermodel Naomi Campbell to partner with her for her Fashion 4 Relief in Dar es Salaam to raise funds for maternal health in Tanzania. And
in 2011 I was invited by the Tanzanian Embassy in Stockholm to showcase my work to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Tanzania mainland independence. In 2013 I spoke on trade opportunities and the business of fashion in Africa at the African Growth and Opportunity Act summit in Ethiopia. And it was a big honour to be invited by our embassy in Moscow to showcase at the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Union of Tanganyika and Zanzibar this year. Q. Who are your favourite upcoming designers? A. My favourite upcoming designers in Tanzania are Mtani Nyamakababi, Husna Tandika and Boke Chacha. Q. Any big plans for the future? A. Yes! A leadership role in the civil service to foster economic growth and promote diplomacy. I want to use the knowledge and experience I have gained in the various sectors of the economy for the development of Tanzania.
SWAHILI FASHION WEEK Mustafa recently launched Swahili Fashion Week – regarded by many as the country’s most popular fashion event – which provides a stage for designers and models at all levels of experience. Mustafa tells fastjet all: “Swahili Fashion Week started in 2008 with the aim that it would become a platform for designers from Swahili-speaking countries to showcase their collections every year in an organised and structured event. The plan was to help shorten the length of time it takes from someone starting as a designer to becoming a brand to reckon with. We hope regional brands will come out of Swahili Fashion Week, flourishing in both the local and international markets. “After the seventh year we are arguably the largest annual fashion show in eastern and central Africa. The fashion week comprises of various sub-events such as the shopping festival, pop-up shops, workshops and the all-important award ceremony with 22 categories. It was a great success this year; we had 16 Tanzanian designers and seven designers from outside of Tanzania.”
2014 showcase Fantastic designs
fastjet.com
25
Lusaka
IN LUSAKA From fine eateries to baby elephants With a population of over 2 million and rising, Lusaka is one of the most rapidly developing cities in southern Africa. And with new developments popping up all the time, including shopping malls, restaurants and superstores, it’s no wonder that the Zambian capital is such a fun place to visit. There is so much to see and do in this lively, up-and-coming city. So, to get your visit under way, here is fastjet’s own list of ‘must go to’ places in Lusaka for a stay of just 48 hours.
26
travelsmart
By Kate Wingar
QUOTE
LUXURY LODGE
TASTE OF ITALY
FLORAL DELIGHT
Why not take a break at Chaminuka Lodge, a luxurious and intimate property overlooking Lake Chitoka. Its huge collection of contemporary African paintings and traditional artefacts makes it a unique fascinating retreat.
It is wonderful to find authentic and delicious Italian food away from Italy, and the chefs at Portico have accomplished their mission. With live music, delicious ingredients and appetising recipes, who can resist wining and dining Italian style at one of Lusaka’s finest restaurants.
The city’s Munda Wanga Botanical Gardens are home to over 1,000 species of exotic plants and endemic species. Close attention has been paid to each garden style, design and type of plant to allow visitors to take a horticultural trip around the world. >
fastjet.com
27
Lusaka
PUT ON YOUR DANCING SHOES
GOING GREEN
WALK WITH ELEPHANTS
The nightclub Room 101 is a hot spot for music lovers. From foam parties to the region’s top disc jockeys, Room 101 has everything to attract the fashionable socialites of Lusaka. So put on your dancing shoes and head for the floor on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights.
Sandy’s Creations Garden Centre and Nursery will appeal to the budding gardener in all of us. The centre supplies quality plants, garden decor and tools and provides landscaping services. If you’re looking for ideas, the hotel rooms at Sandy’s Creations are built around one of Lusaka’s most pristine five-acre sites. Whether you’re looking to spruce up an old garden or need ideas for a new home, Sandy’s Creations is the place to be.
Be amazed by one of the world’s most adorable animals at Lilayi Elephant Nursery. Run by Game Rangers International, the nursery rescues and rehabilitates orphaned elephant calves. Guests can view the elephants daily or even take a morning walk through the estate with the lodge’s playful inhabitants. For more information, visit www.gamerangersinternational.org or see the video of a Lilayi orphan at www.lilayi.com/videoelephants-playing-nursery
MARLIN RESTAURANT
STREET MARKET
WATCH THE CROCS
If you enjoy fine food, from succulent steaks to Creoleinspired dishes, then Marlin Restaurant (formerly known as The Lusaka Club) is the perfect place to treat your taste buds. It’s essential to book in advance as this Lusaka restaurant is very popular.
Lusaka’s fascinating city market can be found just west of Cairo Road. With over 4,000 market stalls offering everything from fruit and fish to clothes, hardware, motor spares and home-made furnishings, it’s a ‘must see’ when visiting the capital.
If you’re looking for a funfilled family day out then Kalimba Reptile Park is the place to go. Just half an hour’s drive from Lusaka, the reptile park is a popular destination, offering such ‘scaly’ sights as giant Nile crocodiles and a variety of indigenous snakes and tortoises.
fastjet.com
29
Lira
By Iga Motylska
LIRA 10 YEARS STRONG
In the decade that spans the career of South African soul music star Lira, she has performed from the Cape to Cairo alongside legends such as Hugh Masekela and for Nelson Mandela. The next 10 years promise to be just as melodious. Iga Motylska reports. >
fastjet.com
31
L
ira excitedly recalls her first gig, when she was flown business class and set up in a luxurious suite to perform for VIPs in Windhoek, Namibia, after the release of her first album. In the decade since then, the multi platinum award winning Afro-Soul vocalist from South Africa has sung for Oprah Winfrey and Barack Obama. She has performed on stages literally from the Cape to Cairo as well as in Europe, Dubai and the United States. Lira has set her sights on greater goals for her second decade in the music industry, starting with a new album. “My new album is under construction,” she says with a laugh, trying not to reveal too much. “I am toying with names, but I’ll just say that it’s under construction for now.” Her most recent album, ‘Rise Again’, is a collection of hits and a celebration of her flourishing musical career. It is also her first release in the United States, which has always been her dream.
Youth Music was the soundtrack to Lira’s youth. Her earliest music memory was singing and dancing with her family, no matter how young or old, at Christmas time. As a 16-year-old she first performed a song she had written for an audience as part of an a cappella group at a talent show. They won best composition, best performance and best vocalist. “What I fell in love with was that you could imagine a concept, put it down on paper, sing it to strangers and have them connect to it,” says Lira. “That was magic.” While Lira has basked in the limelight of local and international success, her greatest career challenge was lifting herself up after feeling like a failure. “My first album had
32
travelsmart
International success Great achievements
Lira
‘There is so much I include in the music, the lessons that I’ve learnt, my convictions and the ideals I have developed.’
incredible airplay, but no presence in stores. I became the famous broke artist, which was tough, but I learnt my best lessons at the time. I grew as a person, I discovered myself in a very empowering way, I learnt to survive.” The experience led to the setting up of her company, which allowed her to become the solution to her challenges. Years on, she is not only a singer but an entrepreneur who has funded and produced her albums, DVDs and concerts and has published her autobiography, ‘Making Herstory’.
Herstory
Humble From modest beginnings
“I don’t want to repeat history,” she says. “I am creating a new story and it’s ‘herstory’. At the beginning of my journey I had a vision and wrote down what I wanted to achieve. I’ve achieved it, so it’s my story, but it’s also my herstory.” Her jazz-infused music, blending R&B with African styles, reflects that journey: “There is so much I include in the music, the lessons that I’ve learnt, my convictions and the ideals I have developed.” Despite her accolades, Lira remains humble and aware of her beginnings. “I can’t deny my history as a South African who experienced apartheid. We were given freedom, but we weren’t taught how to be free. We’re the first generation to create freedom for ourselves. We have the freedom to choose our thoughts and our reactions to things. For a long time it was easy to blame the system, but now there’s nothing standing in our way, so we have the responsibility to be whatever we want to be.” And her most cherished awards are for her humanitarian efforts and charity work, she says. Through the Change Forever Foundation she helps to set up and run community farms and
educational programmes to alleviate poverty. Lira acknowledges that her success is also due to her supportive family as well as her band and team of 12, with whom she is very close. They go on vacation and play soccer together. She jokingly boasts about how she is usually on the winning soccer team because her father, who was a footballer, taught her everything she knows about the game. So it was only appropriate that she performed ‘Pata Pata’ in front of a 30,000-strong crowd at the opening ceremony of the 2010 FIFA World Cup alongside trumpeter Hugh Masekela. “That was incredible, it was the realisation that this was the first African World Cup and I get to open the concert in celebration of it. I was part of this history and earned my place there. I felt a great sense of responsibility and proudly wore the flag dress.”
There have been many more proud moments, such as performing for Nelson Mandela’s 92nd birthday. “I discovered that ‘Something Inside So Strong’ by Labi Siffre was one of his favourite songs. The previous year I wrote a song in honour of Mandela, but I thought, why not sing something that’s meaningful to him. I recorded the song with the Soweto Spiritual Singers and performed it live. It was broadcast inside his home, which was exciting.” In the next decade she would like to collaborate with Sade and Stevie Wonder and continue writing her story. fastjet.com
33
SlowLane
TAKE IT SLOW IN JO’BURG… Johannesburg is a metropolis of around eight million people where life is lived in the fast lane. But chill bru, says Iga Motylska, because here’s how to have a relaxing time in the city.
T
he newly opened The Sheds @1Fox artisanal food and produce market also sells local craft beer on tap. Rumour has it this is where Charles Glass peddled his original Castle Lager beer – one of South Africa’s most popular brews – in the late 19th century.
36
travelsmart
The Sheds is located in a renovated industrial warehouse within Johannesburg’s warehouse district in the inner city. Unlike some of the city’s other markets, it’s spacious enough to host live music performances at weekends, salsa dance socials on Saturday afternoons and photographic exhibitions. While the warehouse provides insight into Johannesburg’s industrial beginnings, there is nothing outdated about it. Snack on biltong (our famous dried and seasoned game meat) or indulge in oysters with champagne. There’s a fusion of African-Asian food on sale, as well as healthy wraps, Mediterranean tapas and pizzas. Whatever you decide to
have, enjoy it with freshly ground Fairtrade coffee or juices that are made before your very eyes. Don’t even consider skipping dessert before you see what’s on offer. And why not buy some handmade souvenirs – African print clothes, handmade crafts and books.
Rustic If you’re looking for something a little more rustic, however, then the Sunday Fourways Farmers Market is located in a garden nursery. You can sit on hay bales or wooden benches under thatched gazebos while you dig into breakfast and listen to the acoustic set. On a scorching summer’s day, there is nothing more refreshing than a
locally produced soda or ginger beer that has been kept cool in a porcelain bath full of ice. Meander between the wooden stalls, although be warned that this may make your choice harder. There are sweet and savoury quiches, fried chicken and chips – accompanied by a musical chorus from the kitchen staff – hamburgers with a generous dollop of spicy South African chakalaka sauce, as well as health smoothies and a selection of cakes. The market is opposite the Montecasino entertainment complex, should you wish to drop into The Teatro or Pieter Toerien’s Theatre for a local production. No matter where you choose to eat, though, double-knot your
shoelaces, tighten the chin straps on your hat and head over to Melville Koppies Nature Reserve. It’s divided into three sections: the central section boasts biodiversity, geological formations and an archaeological site; the eastern section has grasslands; while the western section offers panoramic views.
On a scorching summer’s day, there’s nothing more refreshing than a locally produced ginger beer
Unmissable If you only have time to visit one section then don’t miss Melville Koppies central. This 50 hectare section is a declared nature reserve and Johannesburg heritage site that is home to nine biomes. Over 200 birds have been recorded in the reserve as well as hedgehogs
Summer fun Jo’burg days out
and mongooses. Join a slow-paced weekend guided tour, during which you’ll be introduced to the geology, archaeology, history, flora and fauna of the region. There’s a guided group hike for active explorers – remember to bring a snack and water for the midway stop. If you’re visiting in the week, it’s advisable to book a private tour with a knowledgeable guide. >
fastjet.com
37
Get noticed. Get visible. Get on board!
BOOK NOW FOR ISSUE 10 Are you reading this, then potentially so are 180,000 fastjet passengers. Advertise in the next edition of “travelsmart” to:
Attract new customers Create brand awareness Generate continuous business Keep your brand “front of mind” Provide your company with a long term advantage over competitors who are not advertising Series discounts available for multiple advertisement bookings fastjet – the people’s choice of airline. Email: travelsmart@landmarine.org Tel: +44 (0)1206 752902 by 28th February 2015 to book your advertisement.
SlowLane Any South African will tell you that we have the best wines in the world – sure, they may be a little biased, but you cannot deny they are among the best wines. While Johannesburg doesn’t have wine lands of its own, like the Western Cape Province, it’s a cellar for local vino.
Wines The restaurant Browns of Rivonia has around 30,000 bottles from over 100 local and international wine houses – from Australia, New Zealand and Chile to France, Italy, Spain, Hungary and even Israel. Its extensive wine selection caters to everyone’s budget as bottles range in price from ZAR 85 to 150,000. Guests can make their pick from
inside the cooled cellar on the advice of the sommelier. He explains that this is one of the few restaurants where you should choose your meal to complement your wine and not the other way around. Browns has perfected its ostrich potjie, though, which is best enjoyed on the wooden deck overlooking the lush garden and koi pond. From here, glass of wine in hand, you can savour the slow life. After all, Browns was an old-time farmhouse back in the day.
Pic credit: Wendy Carstens - Grinding Sorghum
MORE INFORMATION The Sheds@1Fox 1 Fox Street, Ferreirastown Tel: +27 (0)84-057-0015 www.1fox.co.za Times: Thursday to Friday, 11.00 to 18:00; Saturday and Sunday, 09.00 to 17.00. Fourways Farmers’ Market Earth Outdoor Living Nursery at William Nicol Drive and Montecasino Boulevard, Fourways Tel: +27 (0)11-465-5276 www.ffmarket.co.za Times: Sunday, 10.00 to 15.00. Melville Koppies Nature Reserve Judith Road, Emmarentia Tel: +27 (0)11-482-4797 www.mk.org.za Times: Open daily, but it’s recommended to join guided tours, group hikes or a private tour.
Pic credit: Wendy Carstens - Grinding Sorghum
Browns of Rivonia 21 Wessel Rd, Rivonia Tel: +27 (0)11-803-7533 www.browns.co.za Times: Monday to Friday, 12.00 to 15.00 and 18.00 to 22.00; Saturday, 18.00 to 22.00
So much to do For all the family
fastjet.com
39
Events – January to March
Events
FOOTBALL, FISHING AND FUN-FILLED FESTIVALS KAAPSE KLOPSE 1 January Cape Town
Cape Town’s annual New Year festival is an explosion of vibrant colour, music and dance – the perfect way to bring in 2015 – better than Rio. A ‘must see’ if you are celebrating Hogmanay in Cape Town.
AFRICA CUP OF NATIONS
WANYAMBO FESTIVAL 21 to 23 January Dar es Salaam
Wanyambo Festival is the perfect way to explore Tanzania’s rich culture, featuring everything you want to see at a cultural festival, from traditional music, dance and costumes to great food and drink. Head for Makumbusho to enjoy this wonderful celebration of Tanzanian culture.
17 January to 8 February Equatorial Guinea
Make sure you visit the ‘friendliest festival on the planet’ this February. The 12th Sauti za Busara festival celebrates the best of African music under African skies. There is also a Songs for Peace competition where musical groups compete for a cash prize. Pic credit: Peter Bennett
The 30th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations is taking place in Equatorial Guinea this time round. But fear not, there are sure to be festivities all over Africa, with many countries represented in the tournament including South Africa and Zambia. Who will win the prestigious football prize? Pic credit: Maxisport / Shutterstock.com
SAUTI ZA BUSARA
12 to 15 February Stone Town, Zanzibar
ROTARACT RUBAGA BEACH VOLLEYBALL 7 February Rubaga, Kampala
Pic credit: Peter Bennett
The sixth Rotaract Rubaga Beach Volleyball event puts the fun into fundraising. The community service club hosts this annual event in Entebbe to raise money for community projects. Not only do you get to enjoy playing volleyball, but you can make a difference to the lives of local people.
fastjet.com41
Events
JOZI FILM FESTIVAL 20 to 22 February Johannesburg
KILIMAN ADVENTURE CHALLENGE February and March Mount Kilimanjaro
This cleverly named triathlon involves a two-day bike ride, a standard-distance marathon and a climb to the summit of Kilimanjaro – all within six days. Attracting athletes and runners from every corner of the world, this challenge is not for the faint-hearted.
CAPE TOWN INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL 27 and 28 March CTICC, Cape Town
Pic credit: Taryn Hatchett.
Pic credit: Val Adamson
The first event of its kind to be included in the South African calendar, the Jozi Film Festival returns for its fourth year. This annual event showcases the latest movies by South African and international filmmakers while enriching local culture of Jo’burg and supporting its vibrant film community. Films will be shown at several venues across the city along with Q&A sessions and an awards ceremony at the end of the festival.
Known as Africa’s Grandest Gathering, the 16th annual CTIJF is the largest music event in sub-Saharan Africa. Featuring a star-studded line-up of over 40 artists, this two-day festival is sure to hit all the right notes.
FNB DANCE UMBRELLA FESTIVAL 28 February to 15 March Johannesburg
Taking place at Auckland Park, this 27-year-old cultural festival showcases contemporary dances featuring both local and international artists. From community-based groups to up-andcoming choreographers to established companies, this multi-disciplinary festival will get you on your feet.
ANNUAL BARBEL COMPETITION
Pic credit: Taryn Hatchett.
End of March Zimbabwe
Organised by Marimba Angling Society at Lake Chivero, this yearly fishing festival encourages anglers of all ages to see at first hand the techniques used by native people and take a look at the equipment they use.
fastjet.com
43
BigFive
M
any first-time visitors to East Africa come in search of the legendary Big Five (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo and rhino). Those who return for a second visit usually realise that our continent has so much more to offer than mere trophy species. Perhaps they will subsequently discover the lesser-known and rather cleverly constructed Little Five (elephant shrew, ant lion, leopard tortoise, buffalo weaver and rhino beetle). So pursuing this ‘five’ theme, we thought it might be fun to shine a light-hearted spotlight on what might be perceived as fastjet’s own Big Five – a highly distinct species of passenger. We realise there are many different types of passenger, just in the same way as there are many species of animal. But for us, this quintet seems to stands out. See if you can spot one of the Flying Big Five on your flight. Or maybe you are one yourself:
44
travelsmart
BIG 5? It’s not just animal species that come in distinctive types…
THEY MAY BE FLYING BESIDE YOU A humorous view of fastjet’s passengers
THE TOURIST (mtalii)
Perhaps the easiest of the Flying Big Five to spot, especially as this particular creature has two clearly identifiable subspecies: the savanna and the coastal. Almost uniquely, one subspecies is able to morph from the muted hues of the savanna to a more colourful variety found at the ocean’s edge, effortlessly shedding dreary khaki in favour of garish beachwear as they go.
Note the impressively laundered convertible safari pants with so-called zip-off legs, usually worn by the savanna male (and increasingly by the female), sometimes with matching khaki or olive-green shirt. Look, too, for the expensive trekking boots, even though the wearer will walk only from his or her tent to the vehicle while stalking game or hop out of a 4x4 for a sundowner. The coast subspecies differs from its game park cousin, so instead of blending naturally with their environment as both male and
female will attempt to stand out, preferring, as they do, to exhibit their summer plumage or markings. It is to the coast that many go to engage in noisy and highly stylised mating rituals – or at least to participate in activity that might result in offspring.
THE STUDENT (mwanafunzi)
A particularly interesting species. Always young, or at the very least not fully mature, the student is an increasingly common sight in many urban areas. At one time it was rarely seen; but owing to a series of government measures and a more propitious environment, this species has certainly multiplied to a point where it has started to displace other, longer-established inhabitants. Like the tourist, the student has distinct and easily identifiable markings. Often there is little to distinguish the male from the female. Objects such as headphones, backpacks and cellphones can be an obvious giveaway. It’s worth noting that grooming is not always valued by the male of the species; yet he female seems to be happy enough with this situation.
THE EXECUTIVE (afisa)
This species is often (but not always) male, fast-moving and largely active during the day. Usually well groomed, the executive tends to have a known range and uses a well-worn trail. The executive does occasionally associate with others of a similar kind or status, but is mostly a loner and rarely communicates with other species. Often the alpha male or female of any group or clan, this creature is seen out in the open; leaving those of lower status behind to look after and guard the nest.
from the grasping of armrests to the taking of multiple plane selfies. It is also commonly displayed in an inability to find the correct place to sit, but can also manifest itself in uncertain movement and a sense of wonderment. Studies conducted by behaviourists reveal that this species can be quite slow-moving and can exhibit signs of apparent bafflement when hearing commands.
THE UNACCOMPANIED MINOR (mtoto ambaye hajasindikizwa)
THE FIRST-TIME FLYER (msafiri wa mara ya kwanza)
Unlike others among the Flying Big Five, this creature is not immediately identified by its appearance. In fact, the first-time flyer can come in all shapes and sizes and, as such, has no discernible markings. What sets the first-time flyer species apart is its odd behaviour. Out of its natural environment and sometimes nervous and unsure, this strange conduct is found in many forms,
Here we see the newborn of the species, the playful cub, the fledgling, the unsteady calf. Often moving for the first time without either parent, these shy creatures may be leaving the nest and are vulnerable in a hostile world full of predators. Luckily, unaccompanied minors quickly find surrogate mothers to protect them when travelling and are very well cared for by fastjet’s professional cabin crew.
fastjet’s big five Passenger species
fastjet.com
45
SagarChavda
Sagar Chavda, director of flight operations, fastjet
STILL REACHING FOR THE SKY…. Sagar Chavda has been director of flight operations for fastjet since the airline was established in November 2012. As a pilot, he has seen life at its most vivid and hazardous, flying aid missions to Africa’s trouble spots. Today, his experience and knowledge are focused on keeping the passengers and crew of fastjet very safe and secure.
W
e’ve all seen Harrison Ford, in his role as Indiana Jones, rescuing the good guys from a terrible fate by leaping aboard a small plane in tropical attire and roaring off into the wide blue yonder. Well, meet the man who has done it for real. He is Sagar Chavda, onetime bush pilot and medevac flyer; now director of flight operations for fastjet.
46
travelsmart
Before going to work for fastjet – the airline he helped to establish two years ago – Kenyan-born Sagar had clocked up many flying hours in the skies above South Sudan, Somalia, Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo while flying humanitarian aid missions for the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross. The work involved transporting doctors and nurses to trouble spots and evacuating the
By John Tavner
war-wounded. “There are a lot of difficult decisions to be made in a short time in hostile territory,” says 39-year-old Sagar. “However, there is a great sense of relief when you manage to bring out a war-wounded person back to the safety of a makeshift hospital.” Clearly, Sagar’s experience as a bush pilot in tough circumstances is a huge advantage when it comes to
MAGIC OF MBEYA One of Sagar’s favourite destinations is Mbeya, in the south-west corner of Tanzania, because of its beautiful setting amid the Mbeya range of mountains, which rise to a height of 8,700 ft. “We worked closely with the Tanzanian Civil Aviation Authority to develop a special approach for the airfield as it is surrounded by mountains,” says Sagar. Top: Stuck in the mud
in South Sudan Above: fastjet crew
AIRBUS A319 Sagar has a lot of respect for the European-built Airbus A319 jet airliner, which he captains on fastjet services. “It’s a very sophisticated airplane with fly-by-wire technology,” says Sagar. “This makes it much safer then conventional airplanes as it incorporates a lot of redundancy. “It’s also a modern aircraft that uses considerably less fuel, a saving that we offer our passengers. “Finally it also goes a long way in reducing our carbon footprint.”
understanding the diverse terrain of Africa and the characteristics of its various airports and airstrips.
Missions In contrast with his role of flying mercy missions in Africa, Sagar was also based for a time in Switzerland, flying passengers – mostly tourists – from all over Europe to East Africa. For the past four years, Sagar has been in aviation management, first
1998 South Sudan UN World Food Program
with a Kenyan company and latterly with fastjet. But he likes to keep his hand in on the flight deck and regularly captains an Airbus A319 on fastjet services between Johannesburg and Harare, Lusaka, Mwanza, Mbeya and Kilimanjaro. In his day-to-day work, Sagar looks after key operational aspects such as ground handling, flight operations and engineering. “I have to ensure that we consistently provide safe and reliable flights throughout our network – ensuring our flights depart on time. This includes from the time a passenger checks in for a flight until after they collect their bags at the other end.” What he most enjoys about his job at fastjet is the team spirit. “We are quickly growing into an established airline,” says Sagar. “However, our small team of pilots, cabin crew, ground personnel and commercial staff make fastjet a small family where everyone knows each other. A lot of my colleagues go out of their way to help each other to get the job
“However, this also makes it my favourite place to fly to. The scenery is spectacular. I would recommend a trip to Lake Nyasa, two hours’ drive south of Mbeya town, where the waters are crystal-clear.” done. I must say I’ve never seen such a sense of camaraderie elsewhere in my career.” Looking to the future, Sagar would like to spend a bit more time at the sharp end. “I have been in aviation management for the past four years and I enjoy the challenges. However, the office duties have kept me away from the flight deck. In the future, I would like to fly a little more often. The call of the open skies and visiting new places is never too far for any pilot.” In his leisure time, Sagar plays tennis and other sports. He also loves to travel – on two wheels. “I go camping whenever I can on my motorcycle. There is nothing like a night out in the African savanna, around a fire with good friends and a cold Kilimanjaro beer, listening to the animals and exchanging stories.”
fastjet.com
47
BUSINESS Solar Energy
E H T N I E W T E U R A O AB As well as plenty of sunshine, many parts of Africa have problems with electrical supply and high energy charges. So why is there a reluctance to use solar energy on any meaningful scale? Gary Gimson reports.
T
here is something of a mystery about the nearabsence of solar power in Africa. Apart from a few fancy camps that trade on their ecocredentials, a smattering of greentinged consumers and some NGO-
48
travelsmart
funded micro schemes, it has yet to be harnessed on a continent-wide basis. Instead, its use is small-scale and nearly always off-grid. By contrast, in many parts of notso-sunny northern Europe there is a proliferation of often ugly – and subsidy-hungry – rooftop solar panels, all feeding back into their respective national grids. At these northern latitudes, the economics of these panels is often open to question. But many areas of Africa have three times the solar irradiance of northern Europe. Parts of Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania have some of the world’s highest levels of solar irradiance, with over 2,400 kilowatt-hours per square metre
per year compared with northern Europe, where 700 to 800 kWh/m2 is more usual. For the time being, the market is consumer-led rather than being driven by national policy-makers. The only exception is South Africa. The newly opened 96 megawatt Jasper solar farm near Kimberley is Africa’s largest solar power project to date. It is claimed to provide enough power (when the sun shines) for some 80,000 homes. Coming soon, and in the same area, is the 100 MW concentrated solar thermal power (CSP) scheme at Redstone.
Encourage Elsewhere, African governments have been slow to encourage solar power; although some – Kenya is a case in point – have acquiesced in wind energy. It is argued that state-
K ? R R E A D W O P R A L O S T owned energy companies tend to favour big power projects with big solutions to a nation’s future needs. Up until now, solar has been too small and seen as an off-grid option. This off-grid situation means that the private sector is backing solar power for reasons of self-interest – and there is nothing wrong with that. For example, Williamson Tea, a family-owned business for over 140 years, has built its own 1 MW solar farm in Tinderet, western Kenya. The company expects the panels to cut its electricity bills and reduce its reliance on diesel generators. But solar panels can be expensive to install and interest rates on any loans to buy panels can be eye-wateringly high. Both can reduce any cost advantages associated with ‘free’ solar energy. This, like many similar projects, is an example of a back-up system that is used to ensure an uninterrupted power supply. But this is not an on-grid project or one that will benefit mwananchi. In Tanzania, for example, only about 10 per cent of the population has
access to mains electricity. In terms of renewables, the Kenyan government in particular, for whatever reason, seems to prefer wind to sun and the giant 300 MW Lake Turkana Wind Power Project is a clear indication of this preference. Some solar developers are looking to set up large solar photovoltaics (PV) projects in East Africa; but so far, according to a recent report, it is not clear whether this can be a costefficient solution.
Inconsistent As in the case of wind energy, the sun doesn’t always shine and is obviously not available at night, so these farms require back-up by more conventional generator systems: a duplication that can prove too costly for many, especially when vested interests are at work. So not everyone thinks that solar power – and renewable energy in general – is such a great idea. “Why is renewable energy such a total fail?” asks the UK-based super sceptic writer James Delingpole. “Because,” he goes on “it’s so ludicrously inefficient and impossibly expensive that if ever we were
so foolish as to try rolling it out on a scale beyond its current boutique levels, it would necessitate bankrupting the global economy.” In Africa, however, there are different arguments for and against. It’s not just about cost. It’s about regularity of supply; and in remote areas it is
For the time being, the market is consumer-led rather than being driven by national policy-makers also about gaining access to electrical power; and that is equally as true for a village with no mains connection as for a fancy eco-safari camp where guests are paying upwards of US$ 500 a night. Some energy is better than none. Solar-generated electricity can be limited to a few meagre watt-hours per day for light-starved villagers – especially compared with what a diesel generator can offer. And for tourists out in the bush it can mean that the lights go out early each evening and there are unwelcome restrictions on the use of hot water. So there are benefits, but also downsides. I suppose the same could be argued about all sources of energy.
Small-scale projects Renewable energy
fastjet.com
49
LOOK INSIDE
Laico Lake Victoria Hotel
By Andrew Roberts
BOGIE’S FAVOURITE WATERING HOTEL… When the cast and crew of ‘The African Queen’ needed some rest and recuperation after weeks of filming in the Congo, they made a beeline for Entebbe’s most famous hotel. That same tradition of caring for weary and travel-worn guests is still very much alive today at the ‘Lake Vic’.
S
prawling across the verdant shore of Lake Victoria between the town’s antiquated lake pier and the modern international airport, Entebbe has been Uganda’s main point of entry for over a century. In the first half of the 20th century, travellers including Winston Churchill and Theodore Roosevelt would spend four days journeying inland from the Kenyan coast
50
travelsmart
by train and lake steamer before stepping ashore onto Entebbe Pier. When international air travel began to expand in the 1950s, the town was able to retain its gateway status because of its proximity to the modern-day Entebbe Airport.
Immaculate Straddling both eras, and within sight of the lake, is the Laico Lake Victoria Hotel – or ‘Lake Vic’ as
Hollywood stars Katharine Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart
it is affectionately known. Set in immaculate, palm-shaded grounds next to the lakeside golf course, the hotel has being welcoming travellers to an enclave of old-world tropical splendour since 1948. Over the years, the management has perfected the twin functions of reassuring and reviving international arrivals. A decade or two ago, when supplies and services in Uganda were considerably less efficient, a degree of reassurance was necessary and the Lake Vic played a sterling role in this respect, thanks largely to the splendour of its legendary breakfast buffet. Rested and replete, safarigoers headed inland in the knowledge that, whatever might be served up along the way, they were assured
of sausage, bacon, eggs and coffee as they arrived and exited. The same is true today, although the once spectacular gap between standards in Entebbe and upcountry towns has greatly diminished. Tired after their long flight from Europe, guests usually perk up after a few hours’ rest in an air conditioned room and a pot of freshly brewed Arabica coffee on the garden terrace. Others need more ‘intensive’ care. A historic example was in 1951 when a movie team, including Hollywood
its public areas. Little imagination is needed to picture Hepburn sunning herself by the pool or Bogart and director John Huston making their way to the bar via the hotel’s elegant hardwood-floored hallway.
Popular The Lake Vic is a popular resting point for travellers taking a deep breath before heading up the busy 40 km highway to Kampala. After disembarking from fastjet’s new Dar es Salaam to Entebbe service, the easy
Set in immaculate, palm-shaded grounds next to the lakeside golf course, the hotel has being welcoming travellers to an enclave of old-world tropical splendour since 1948 stars Katharine Hepburn, Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall, went to the Lake Vic to recuperate after weeks of filming ‘The African Queen’ on location in the Congo jungles. And the hotel performs the same role to this day, because the Lake Vic is a popular retreat for United Nations workers on leave from less comfortable postings in the Congo and South Sudan. Entebbe’s hotel trade has expanded a lot since the Lake Vic opened its doors 66 years ago. Yet even with so many recent entries in the field, it remains a favourite among the town’s larger hotels. Recent renovations have provided the rooms with the amenities expected of a modern hotel while enhancing the historical charm of
option is to stay overnight instead of pushing north to join the evening gridlock in the capital. The unpredictable nature of Kampala traffic also makes the Lake Vic a popular daytime stop for outgoing passengers booked on evening flights. Ill advised travellers leave the city an hour before check-in and spend two or three hours inching down the Kampala to Entebbe tailback, looking anxiously at their watches. Those who know better leave the city earlier to spend the afternoon relaxing by the 20 metre pool at Laico Lake Victoria and gathering fond memories of Uganda.
Memorable spa Wonderful treatments
fastjet.com
51
FOOD FOR THOUGHT The Carnival, Kampala
By Andrew Roberts
LET THERE BE DRUMS – AND EXOTIC MEATS
T
he Ugandan capital, Kampala, offers a cornucopia of dining opportunities. On the leafy upmarket hillsides of Kololo and Nakereso the range of cuisine includes Belgian, Thai, Indian, Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Mexican and Italian, while the ubiquitous KFC has now muscled in on the act. It’s good to know that African priorities are alive and well on Naguru, the next hill along. This affluent stronghold of Uganda’s emerging upper middle class is home to the Carnival Restaurant. Like its famous near-namesake – the Carnivore Restaurant in Nairobi – The Carnival specialises in nyama choma (roast meat) and traditional dance displays, the twin staples of every African village feast. Tourists are drawn by the live entertainment and exotic choice of
game meat. The Carnival also appeals to Kampala residents, many of whom are first-generation migrants from upcountry. It provides a nostalgic connection with home and an opportunity to bore their city-born kids with tales of village privations.
Alive The Carnival is open all afternoon but really comes alive at night. Guests follow a dimly lit covered entrance lined with shields and shrines towards the sound of drums and the aroma of roasting meat. They emerge into a delightful open courtyard with cosy booths for couples and a large dining room for corporate parties. The unifying theme, says manager Henry Onen, is to be ‘as local as possible’. The walls are hung with shields, Congolese masks, woven baskets, cat’s cradles of local sisal and millet-mingling sticks, while the food
Live entertainment African feast
is served on plain earthenware dishes. The order of service is not complicated. For Ush 50,000 (US$ 20) you can eat as much as you like. A carved wooden gorilla is placed on your table. As long as he stands on his legs, your waiter will bring a succession of freshly barbecued meats impaled on 3 ft skewers. When you turn the gorilla on his back the waiter will stop. Beef, goat, chicken and pork are firm favourites, but the real fun lies in sampling exotic cuts of crocodile, buffalo and an unspecified species of antelope. After the feast, it’s time to concentrate on the dancing. Bugandan crowd-pleasers mingle with hip-shaking favourites from Toro in the west, Mbale in the east and Acholiland to the north – a captivating experience for visitors from the lands of Bob Dylan and Coldplay. Visitors disinclined to leave can stay overnight in Carnival’s own boutique hotel, the Capitol Palace, and sleep to the sound of drums after a feast of antelope. Now, that really is ‘as local as possible’. fastjet.com
53
CAR REVIEW
Mitsubishi Outlander
BANDWAGON IN PERFECT TUNE WITH SUV LOVERS
M
itsubishi’s latest SUV certainly ticks all the right boxes. But is it just another SUV jumping on the bandwagon, or is it a wagon worthy of carrying the band? The world is obsessed with SUVs. There are full-sized 4x4s capable of tackling a desert, while at the other end of the scale are the so-called crossovers – little more than a jacked-up hatchback. Mitsubishi has seen the trend and smartly decided to plug every gap it could with an SUV. After all, if you
SUV Strikes a pose
54
travelsmart
make what people want, sales are guaranteed. Which is why the Outlander was brought into being. It sits neatly in the middle-sized SUV bracket and, while not quite as attractive as previous generations (there is a facelift on the way), it makes a strong case for people to lay down their hardearned cash. It’s quieter, more comfortable and more practical than its predecessors – and the quality has improved out of sight. Sure, there are plenty of hard surfaces around, but all the
touch points feel durable. The cut lines in the plastics are cleaner and the dash top is now fashioned from soft-feel plastic. Even the infotainment system has been better integrated and now looks like a factory fitment rather than an aftermarket tack-on.
Redesigned The redesigned seats and their contrast stitching are excellent on long journeys and for rear passengers there is more legroom than ever before. There is even a seven-
By Karl Peskett
Mitsubishi has seen the trend and smartly decided to plug every gap it could with an SUV
seat option for those who really need to cram people in. But perhaps the best part about the latest Outlander is how it drives. The suspension strikes an excellent balance between ride comfort and confident handling. Road noise is far more suppressed than in the previous model and the steering, although lacking feel, is light and very direct. Under the bonnet of our test car was Mitsubishi’s venerable 2.4 litre petrol engine, which is now more refined than ever. It offers enough power and torque (165 bhp and 220 Nm) to keep up with most traffic and even the ‘rubber band’ gearbox (a continuously variable transmission) behaves more like a regular automatic. Overall, its road manners are very good. And it’s just as good off-road. On a beach, the Outlander acquits itself well, never getting bogged down – just remember to let down the tyres a little. Like a fine wine, the Outlander has become better with age. Mitsubishi has got the formula just right. The company managed to jump on the SUV bandwagon at just the right time; but the trick is, they’ve done it with just the right car.
Better with age Mitsubishi Outlander
fastjet.com
55
TECH REVIEW Tech Hubs
TECH HUBS FOSTERING YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS T
he growth of technology development and innovation in many African countries has led to the opening of so-called tech hubs, which are springing up all over Africa. In recent years more than 100 technical and innovation hubs have opened across Africa including several in Zimbabwe, mostly in the capital, Harare. Here, we look at three of them and the opportunities they provide.
Muzinda Umuzi Hub was the first to open, funded by the Higher Life Foundation, a non government organisation. As well as being a skills development centre, Muzinda Umuzi encourages ideas and innovations and aims to engage young Zimbabweans through training and mentorship programmes to prepare them for opportunities in the growing digital sector. Focusing more on development than start-up funding, Muzinda Umuzi is believed to provide the best prospects in Zimbabwe for entrepreneurial training in the IT industry. Another new and exciting tech hub, opened in 2013 in Harare, is the Hypercube Hub. It received startup funding from two international development organisations – the
56
travelsmart
There is a huge potential for those with enthusiasm to develop technology-based products and services.
Indigo Trust and Hivos – as well as from the United States Embassy in Harare through its Fund for Innovation in Public Diplomacy. Hypercube aims to provide connections between entrepreneurs and investors and the hope is that new businesses will be launched after being ‘incubated’ at the hub. Workshops and educational events are held on a regular basis.
Emerging Ideas In contrast, Emerging Ideas is a different kind of hub, offering services to all business types rather than just technical ones. Unlike the others, Emerging Ideas is wholly driven by profit and its ambition is to develop 100 profitable projects
by 2025. It already has a number of projects under way, with some technical projects on the horizon. Start-up weekends and ‘pitch nights’ are a key part of all these organisations, so that ideas can be explored within a like-minded community. Technical innovation is still a very young sector in Zimbabwe’s industrial landscape; but with the kind of support now available from these tech hubs, there is a huge potential for those with enthusiasm to develop technology-based products and services. www.muzinda.co.zw www.hypercubehub.co www.emergingideas.com
Innovation Huge potential
fastjet.com
57
LATEST RELEASES BOOKWORM UNOFFICIAL AND DENIABLE John Gordon Davis
Yvonne Adhiambo Owuor
Jack Harker worked for South African military intelligence until the 1994 elections when he fled to New York to start afresh. He turns his hand to publishing and meets writer and activist Josephine Valentine, but decides to keep his undercover past a secret from her. However, his world is thrown into turmoil by the advent of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and Jack must decide whether to tell Josephine the truth. But does he even have a choice? Will his former colleagues betray him? What will happen to him if he does – or doesn’t – confess?
Yvonne Adhiambo Owuor returns with a spellbinding novel about a broken Kenyan family, a brother and sister who have lost their way and how war stains us forever. Running for his life, Odidi Oganda is gunned down in the streets of Nairobi. His grief-stricken sister and their father bring his body back to their crumbling home in the Kenyan drylands. The murder stirs painful memories and unleashes a series of unexpected events. A story of power, deceit, unrequited love, survival and sacrifice, ‘Dust’ features the violent upheaval of contemporary Kenya with scenes stretching back through a shocking political assassination in 1969 and the Mau Mau uprisings against British colonial rule in the 1950s. We come to learn of the secrets held by this parched landscape, buried deep within the shared past of the family and of a conflicted nation.
ALL OUR NAMES
MUST READ...
Dinaw Mengestu Award-winning author Dinaw Mengestu returns with another gripping and powerful tale set at the time of an African revolution. Two young friends are driven apart during the intense uproar on the streets of Uganda. One finds himself safe in the American Midwest; the other ends up in deep peril in his home country. In America, one of the friends falls in love with Helen (from whose perspective the novel is told). Helen begins to evaluate her own life and establish her identity. However, both the men – in Africa and America – are called Isaac. Are they the same person?
58
DUST
travelsmart
THE GIRL WHO SAVED THE KING OF SWEDEN Jonas Jonasson The author of the bestselling novel ‘The Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out of the Window and Disappeared’ returns with another charming novel about luck, love and adventure. It follows the story of Nombeko; born in a Soweto shack and destined for a short, hard life. Ironically, her luck changes when she is run over by a drunken engineer and ends up working for a secret atomic bomb making facility. However, there is one bomb too many, and Nombeko knows all about it. Now she’s on the run and ends up in Sweden, where the fate of the king – and the world – are in her hands.
STAR FILMS... BLOCKBUSTERS
THE HOBBIT: THE BATTLE OF FIVE ARMIES Starring: Martin Freeman, Benedict Cumberbatch, Ian McKellen Director: Peter Jackson Genre: Action, Sci-Fi The third and final instalment of the fantasy trilogy climaxes with a showdown to end all showdowns. Bilbo and his colleagues fail in their plan to kill Smaug, and it is left to Bard to fire the last dragon-slaying black arrow to kill the beast before he takes over and destroys everything. The battle for Smaug’s hoard sees goblins, wards, dwarves, men and elves compete in an epic battle, concluding Peter Jackson’s stunning trilogy.
INTO THE WOODS Starring: Meryl Streep, Johnny Depp, Chris Pine Director: Rob Marshall Genre: Comedy, Musical Classic fairytales by the Brothers Grimm come together in a Disney adaptation of the popular Broadway musical. The original storyline follows a baker and his wife who try to break the curse, bestowed on them by a witch, that has left them childless. On their quest to find what they need to break the spell, they encounter various Grimm characters along the way, including Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood and Rapunzel. With its star-studded cast, this is sure to be an unforgettable cinematic experience.
UNBROKEN
BIRDMAN
Starring Jack O’Connell, Domhnall Gleeson, Garrett Hedlund Director: Angelina Jolie Genre: Action, Drama
Starring: Michael Keaton, Emma Stone, Edward Norton Director: Alejandro González Iñárritu Genre: Drama, Comedy
In the director’s chair for the second time, Angelina Jolie presents an amazing true-life story from the Second World War, based on the survival of Olympic athlete Louis Zamperini (O’Connell). After channelling his rebellious energy into running, Zamperini volunteers for the air force, but crash-lands in the middle of the Pacific. Spending 47 days adrift in a liferaft is a hellish ordeal in itself for Zamperini; but he finds that things will get much worse before they can get better.
In an age where superhero movies are a constant feature of cinema listings, ‘Birdman’ is a refreshing, satirical take on this saturated genre. Keaton stars as Riggan Thomson, an actor who at the height of his career played the superhero Birdman in a multi-billion-dollar franchise. Now, 30 years later, he tries to revive his career by writing, directing and starring in a play, helped by his friends and family. Along the way, things go from bad to worse; but will everything go smoothly on the opening night?
fastjet.com
59
Not flying?
VIEW TRAVELSMART ANYTIME, ANYWHERE www.fastjet.com/travelsmart-inflight-magazine Subscribe for FREE and receive each issue direct to your inbox
CORNER RIDDLE ME THIS...
...riddle me that
Q: What travels around the world but stays in one place?
A. A stamp
Q: What occurs once in a minute, twice in a moment, but never in a thousand years? A. The letter M
Q: Why did the tightrope walker visit his bank? A: To check his balance
Q: Why did the golfer wear an extra pair of trousers? A: In case he got a hole in one
Q: Where do sheep go on holiday? A. A needle
Q: What has one eye but cannot see?
JOKE TIME...
A: The Baaaaaaahamas
ANIMALGRAMS!
Q: Why did the banana go to hospital? A: Because he wasn’t peeling well
Q: Why did the man take a pencil to bed? A: Because he wanted to draw the curtains
Q: Where do computers go to dance? A: The disk-o
Q: When is the best time to go to the dentist? A: Tooth-hurty
BEZRA - Their black-and-white patterns are as unique as our fingerprints.
Unscramble the letters to find the names of some of Africa’s famous animals
ELIDROCCO - Large, scaly reptiles with long noses and sharp teeth.
PALETHEN - The third largest land
LOGRILA - The world’s largest primate,
mammal on earth.
FAIRGEF - They have blue tongues and very long necks.
found in the continent’s jungles.
THEACHE - The fastest land mammal in
the world.
PRODALE - Usually found high up in
a tree - making them difficult to spot.
POPITHOPAMUS - Found in lakes and rivers, and one of Africa’s most dangerous animals.
fastjet.com
61
TRAVEL INFORMATION VISA INFORMATION Most nationals require visas to enter East Africa. Citizens from the five East African states require no visas while those from the Common Market of East and Southern Africa (COMESA) member states have relaxed entry requirements into East Africa. However, East African member states have their own visa requirements for various nationals.
Tanzanian visas All foreigners from non-Commonwealth countries are required to have a valid visa unless their countries have agreements with Tanzania under which the visa requirement is waived. Exemptions: Citizens of Commonwealth countries are not required to obtain visas unless they are citizens of the United Kingdom, Canada, Nigeria, India, Pakistan, New Zealand or Australia. Tanzanian visas are issued by the following: • The office of the Director of Immigration Services, Dar es Salaam, and the office of the Principal Immigration Officer, Zanzibar. • Entry points to the United Republic of Tanzania: principally Namanga, Tunduma, Sirari, Horohoro, Kigoma Port, Dar es Salaam International Airport, Kilimanjaro International Airport, Zanzibar Harbour and Zanzibar Airport. • Any other gazetted entry point. • From Tanzania High Commissions or embassies abroad. For more information on Tanzanian diplomatic missions visit: www.tanzania.go.tz
South African visas Visitors’ visas are a requirement for many travellers entering South Africa on a temporary basis. The purpose of visit can be for either business or leisure but is restricted to 90 days or less when using a visitor’ss
62
travelsmart
visa. For longer trips a different type of visa is required and information regarding this can be obtained from the Department of Home Affairs. The visa application must be produced on arrival and visitors are restricted to the activities given as the reason for travel during the visa application process. For a smooth trip, ensure that visas are applied for before departure as they are not issued on arrival in South Africa. Moreover, the visa must be fixed to a passport and shown to immigration upon landing. Visa applications do not need to be submitted in person but can be submitted on behalf of the traveller, for example, by a travel agent. There are other visa requirements that must be adhered to for entry into South Africa: • • • • • • •
A valid passport needs to be produced which must not expire for at least 30 days after the duration of the intended visit At least two full, unused pages left in the passport Travellers also require a completed application for visa form A yellow fever vaccination certificate if over one year of age and travelling from a yellow fever belt country Documentation confirming the purpose of stay Two colour passport photographs A return or onward ticket is also a necessity
There is a fee associated with obtaining a visa, this fee can change often but can be checked by contacting the Department of Home Affairs in South Africa. For this and further information on visa requirements for entering South Africa visit www.home-affairs.gov.za
BAGGAGE SAVVY Airlines have varying baggage rules that can often be confusing and can lead to unforeseen costs at the airport. An outline of the fastjet baggage guidelines will help make your flight smooth and enjoyable. If booked prior to departure each passenger is entitled to one bag that can be checked in and placed in the hold at the cost of R60 or Tsh 10,000. If hold baggage is not booked in advance it is still possible to check one
bag per passenger into the hold while at the airport on the day of departure, this is at the cost of R100 or Tsh 15,000. All baggage being checked into the hold must weigh less than 20 kg but if baggage weighs more than 20 kg arrangements can be made to carry it at an additional cost of R50 per kilo. However, maximum weight for any single piece of hold baggage is 32 kg due to health and safety restrictions and no passenger can check in more than 50 kg of baggage. Each passenger is entitled to carry only one item of hand luggage, which could be one brief case, one handbag, a rucksack or a suit or dress carrier. Hand baggage can measure a maximum of 56 x 45 x 25 cm and anything measuring larger than this must be checked and placed in the hold. However, hand baggage must be able to be placed in and retrieved from the overhead lockers safely but there is no weight restriction on hand luggage. If hand baggage is larger than the specified dimensions it will be necessary to check this into the hold at the specified fees and charges. Infants travelling without a seat do not have hand baggage allowance.
FLEET INFORMATION Airbus A319 - Quick facts Length:.......................................................................................... 33.84 m / 111 ft Height:................................................................................... 11.76 m / 38 ft 7 in Wingspan:........................................................................... 34.1 m / 111 ft 11 in Maximum capacity:......................................................................... 156 seats Cabin length:............................................................................ 23.78 m / 78 ft Range:........................................................................... 6,850 km / 3,700 Nm Maximum speed:.......................................................................... Mach 0.82 Number of aircraft:............................................................................................ 3
Greener flights through innovative design fastjet operates a fleet of A319 jets manufactured by Airbus as part of the A320 family of aircraft. Identical to the A320 except in length, the A319 is a single aisle twin-engine jet designed to carry 156 passengers. These highly efficient aircraft have a low environmental impact, while the innovative wing-tip Sharklets can reduce fuel consumption by more than 3.5 per cent. Moreover, comfort has been improved for the smaller jet and the state-of-the-art A319 has a wide single-aisle fuselage, which gives a generous seat width, thus helping to maintain the high level of comfort that modern air travellers have come to expect.
For further rules on fastjet’s baggage allowances please visit: www.fastjet.com
HEALTH Vaccination requirements for international travellers • No cholera vaccination certificates are required of travellers coming from all over the world. • Only valid yellow fever vaccination certificates are required of all travellers over one year old, arriving from yellow fever infected countries mainly in central and West Africa, South and Central America South East Asia, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh. • Vaccination for international travellers are obtainable from all inter national air and sea ports, city and major municipal councils NB: Make sure you get your yellow fever shot in good time since the yellow fever certificate is valid for travel use 10 days after vaccination.
fastjet.com
63
THE FASTJET NETWORK
FASTJET CONTACTS 24/7 Call centre: +255 784 108 900 To book tickets or for any customer service enquiries.
TANZANIA fastjet Tanzania & Dar es Salaam ticketing & reservations office Samora Tower, Shop no.1, Ground floor, opposite the NHC House, Samora Avenue
Tel: +255 784 108 900 Email: sales.tanzania@fastjet.com
fastjet Arusha ticketing & reservations office Corridor Springs Hotel, Ground floor, Ingira Road
Tel: +255 784 108 900
fastjet DoubleTree ticketing & reservations office DoubleTree Hilton, Slipway Road Msasani Peninsular
Tel: +255 784 108 900
fastjet Safasha Plaza ticketing & reservations office
UGANDA
Ten West Office, 2nd floor, 10 Vingunguti, Nyerere Road, Dar es Salaam
Tel: +255 784 108 900
Entebbe
Kilimanjaro Mwanza Mbeya
fastjet Julius Nyerere International Airport Tel: +255 784 108 900 Mbeya Airport at Songwe Tel: +255 784 108 900 Moshi Office
Dar es Salaam
TANZANIA
Kaunda Street, Opposite Kilimanjaro Crane Hotel
Tel: +255 784 108 900
Mwanza Airport Tel: +255 784 108 900 Mwanza Town Office Mwanza Hotel, Kenyatta Road
ZAMBIA Lusaka Harare
ZIMBABWE
Tel: +255 784 108 900
SOUTH AFRICA fastjet South Africa Reservations Office Holiday House, 156 Bram Fischer Drive, Randburg, 2194
Tel: +27 11 289 8090 Email: sales.southafrica@fastjet.com and customer.southafrica@fastjet.com
ZAMBIA c/o Voyagers Suez Road, Lusaka
Tel: +260 211 256 864
Johannesburg
SOUTH AFRICA
ZIMBABWE c/o Star Travel, 180 Fife Avenue, Harare
Tel: + 263 864 455 66 77
UGANDA Entebbe Airport Kampala Road, Entebbe
+256 750 080 190
Travelcare Lugogo Mall Kampala
Tel: +256750080190
Simba Travel 8 Colville Street Kampala
Tel: +256 750 080 190
64
travelsmart