ISSUE TWO I 2013-14 I www.jacarandahotels.com
Day of pampering
SPA TREATMENTS CAN DO WONDERS FOR SELF-ESTEEM
FOREWORD
More reasons than eVer to enJoY Your staY With us W
elcome to the second edition of
to upgrade our existing
Jacaranda Plus – the corporate
products with new features
and in-room magazine of the Jacaranda
and services.
group. at Jacaranda Hotel Nairobi
I BElIEvE WE HavE a REPUTaTION FOR FIRST-RaTE SERvICE aND THIS IS a REPUTaTION I WaNT TO RETaIN aND ENHaNCE
The Jacaranda group comprises three
we are refurbishing the
hotels: our signature Jacaranda Hotel in
lobby, restyling the kitchen
Nairobi with its separate gym and spa; the
and introducing a new coffee
delightful Indian Ocean Beach Resort in
bar. at the same time we are
Diani on Mombasa’s south coast; and the
upgrading one wing of the hotel, installing
We are also embarking on a rebranding
colonial-style lake Elementaita lodge in the
air conditioning, fitting double-glazed
exercise for the group.
great Rift valley.
windows and improving the soft furnishing. So, welcome to Jacaranda Hotels. We will
Our group also has non-hotel, but related, interests, such as our popular Pizza garden,
stYLish
opposite the Jacaranda Hotel Nairobi, and
across the road at Pizza garden we are
what was Kiambu’s village Inn.
updating the restaurant to make it more
do everything possible to make sure you enjoy your stay with us.
stylish and give it a more contemporary look.
first-rate
The village Inn closed in mid-2013 in order
James Chege
I believe we have a reputation for first-rate
to pave the way for construction of a state-
service and this is a reputation I want to
of-the-art four-star hotel – the first of its
Acting Managing Director and Group Sales & Marketing Manager
retain and enhance. Moreover, we continue
kind in Kiambu county.
Jacaranda Hotels Kenya
I ISSUE 02 I 1
Contents
ISSUE TWO
5
A publication of Jacaranda Hotels and designed by
Land & Marine Publications (KENYA) Ltd Suite A5, 1st floor, Ojijo Plaza Plums Lane, off Ojijo Road, Parklands PO Box 2022, Village Market 00621, Nairobi, Kenya Tel: +254 (0)20 374 1934 E-mail: kenya@landmarine.com www.landmarine.com The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the editor, or any other organisation associated with this publication. No liability can be accepted for any inaccuracies or omissions. Š2013 Land & Marine Publications (Kenya) Ltd
2 I www.jacarandahotels.com
CONTENTS
12
7
16
8 1 FOREWORD
12 Spa
5 Seafood
16 BOOK REVIEW BEYOND EXPECTATIONS
More reasons than ever to enjoy your stay with us
Come on in – the seafood’s lovely
7 Privilege Card
Bargain-priced card opens door to some great hotel deals
8 Lost and found
Forgotten ‘treasure’ that needs to be dealt with
10 HEAD CHEF SAMUEL MATEKEYA
It’s a team effort – but there’s only one master chef
Day of pampering treatment has done wonders for my self-esteem
A Kenyan for all seasons
18 Jacaranda Board Members 20 Jacaranda profiles 22 JACARANDA HOTELS INDEX
26 Jacaranda Hotel
Five-star service at a four-star price
28 Jacaranda Indian Ocean Beach Resort
Luxury beach resort with a hint of Arab antiquity
30 Lake Elementaita Lodge
Experience the special ambience of Happy Valley
32 Pizza Garden
Upmarket eatery with an authentic Italian flavour
24 Jacaranda Gym & SPA
Perfect pathway to fitness and well-being
I ISSUE 02 I 3
seafood
Come on in –
the seafood’s LoVeLY BY PaMEla J. KaRg
A
fter a day on the beach, a safari in a marine park, or shopping for
perfect souvenirs, it’s time to kick back with a real coastal treat – seafood! Bahari Cove at Jacaranda Indian Ocean
THIS OPEN aIR, À la CaRTE RESTaURaNT PRIDES ITSElF ON SERvINg UNIQUE aS WEll aS FaMIlIaR SEaFOOD
Beach Resort can whet the appetite of every guest with food inspired by africa, India,
at sunset, a table was prepared and dinner
The fi rst glimpse of the darkly coloured
the Middle East and Europe.
selections made: avocado salad with
lobster bisque brought some fears of
seafood, lobster bisque and Swahili-style
a disaster in the kitchen. But the fi rst
fresh fish. a glass of regional white wine
spoonful proved this was not the typical
sparkled in the glow of the table lantern.
light-coloured, creamy bisque served
MeMorabLe
elsewhere. Rather, this was hearty with
With its prime location overlooking the beach – Bahari is the Swahili word for ‘sea’ – this
“Nzuri appetite,” said the waiter.
that bit of spiciness that reminds you that you’re in Kenya.
open air, à la carte restaurant prides itself on serving unique as well as familiar seafood.
This was not the “same old” seafood
This is no small feat in Kenya, where the
one might fi nd in other countries along
seafood consumption per capita is only 3.4
the Mediterranean, Pacifi c or atlantic
kg. Yet Bahari Cove understands the desire of
coasts. Rather, this truly captured the
The main entrée, fresh fish smothered
its customers to enjoy a memorable meal.
polite, civilised yet earthy wilderness
in a regional sauce, allows diners to
that envelopes Kenya, especially along
discover what the locals already know:
its Indian Ocean coast, renowned for its
Mombasa brings all its worldly influences
white sandy beaches.
together to create its famous style. The
faMous
fleshy fish without bones was served With abundant avocados and seafood, the
along with rice and perfectly steamed
elegantly arranged salad was refreshing
vegetables. The curry-infused sauce was
and light after a hot day under the sun.
silky, yet with a hot pepper bite – a great
The dressing had just a bit of tang, yet was
introduction to how coastal chefs blend
smooth and helped blend the variety of
the best of regional spices and Kenya’s
seafood together with the avocado.
diverse foods at Bahari Cove.
I ISSUE 02 I 5
PRIvIlEgE CaRD
bargain-Priced card oPens door to soMe great hoteL deaLs o you enjoy visiting Jacaranda’s
Jacaranda Hotel in Westlands, across the
and there’s More:
various properties? Want an even
road at the Pizza garden and when using
• a 10 per cent discount on all beverages
D
better deal? Well, the Jacaranda group
the services of Jacaranda Caterers.
when dining with Jacaranda
has an exceptional offer that shouldn’t be missed: the Jacaranda Plus Privilege card.
In terms of accommodation and when
• 10 per cent off any outside catering bill
booking directly, card holders get a 15 per This privilege card has a wealth of
cent discount on published resident room
• 10 per cent off conference rates at Indian
advantages. Card holders can benefit from
rates at all Jacaranda properties as well as
Ocean Beach Resort and lake Elementaita
attractive discounts on breakfast, lunch and
20 per cent off the published half-board
lodge.
dinner in all Jacaranda group restaurants.
low season rates at Indian Ocean Beach
It can also be used in the pool area at the
Resort and lake Elementaita lodge.
other benefits: • Complimentary overnight bed-andbreakfast accommodation for two at
PriViLeges
Jacaranda Hotel, Jacaranda Indian Ocean
10 per cent beverage discounts
Beach Resort and lake Elementaita lodge. • a complimentary birthday cake when four or more people dine at the Safari Café at Jacaranda Hotel, the Bahari Cove at Jacaranda Indian Ocean Beach Resort or lord Cole Restaurant (lake Elementaita lodge) • Complimentary use for one day and up to 10 delegates of a meeting room at Jacaranda Hotel, Indian Ocean Beach Resort or lake Elementaita lodge. and with a price tag of just KES 7,500 the Jacaranda Plus Privilege Card is a genuine bargain.
I ISSUE 02 I 7
8 I www.jacarandahotels.com
d n a t s o L d n u o f
Lost and found Left behind Cellphones and chargers are a particular problem
forgotten ‘treasure’ that needs to be deaLt With
E
ver thought about what hotels do
easy to leave a charger plugged into the wall
guest of having forgotten something.
with items left behind by departing
socket, but cell phones are such an indispen-
If there is no response, the items are
guests? it’s an interesting question and
sable part of everyday life that you would
disposed of at least one year after they
one that most guests probably never
think no guest could walk 50 metres down
were found, when staff are allowed to
think about – until they leave something
a corridor without realising he or she had
purchase by auction and the monies
behind themselves.
no link with the outside world. No doubt,
added to the charity funds for CSR.”
as technology moves forward, hotels such The forgetfulness of customers can cause
as Jacaranda can expect to see iPads and
problems – for a guest, of course, but also
tablets in their lost property stores.
for the hotel, which then has to deal with the issue, in this case Jacaranda. guests have a habit of leaving behind the
PoLicY So what is Jacaranda’s policy if a guest
Says Jacaranda’s Daniel Muchai: “Our
realises, once he or she returns home, that
policy requires that lost and found items are
an item has been left behind? Who pays
handed over by the room steward, or any
for any shipment and how is the shipment
same few items. Heading the list are cell phones and chargers, followed closely by clothes left in drawers and wardrobes, then shoes and jewellery. Even binoculars have been left. Cell phones and chargers
gUESTS HavE a HaBIT OF lEavINg BEHIND THE SaME FEW ITEMS, a lIST EaSIlY TOPPED BY CEllPHONES aND THEIR CHaRgERS
seem to be a particular problem for guests. It’s very
other person who found the item, to the
made? Says Daniel diplomatically: “Should
executive housekeeper or the supervisor.”
the guest recall after departure, we ask them to advise the best way for us to send the item. The cost bearer may vary from
securitY
case to case.”
The next stage in the process is explained by Daniel: “The supervisor then records the item in their book and hands over to the security department for coding and safe keeping. The
are Jacaranda’s cleaning staff ever amazed by the absent-mindedness of guests? “very much so,” says Daniel. “Some guests even conclude the item was stolen, only to find a
items are kept in safe custody
mail when they get home informing them
by security as the front-
that they had actually forgotten the item in
of-house informs the
the safe, bed or bathroom.”
I ISSUE 02 I 9
head chef SaMUEl MaTEKEYa
it’s a teaM effort – but there’s onLY one
master chef M
any people love to cook, but there
Jacaranda+: What is your favourite dish?
is a difference between cooking
J+: How do you express your own cooking style more clearly and effectively? and
for fun and turning your passion into
Samuel Matekeya: lake victoria fresh
also unleash your creativity, intensify the
a career by becoming a chef. We take
tilapia is my favourite. Fish has a lot of
flavours, streamline techniques and still
a fascinating glimpse at the Jacaranda
nourishment.
have fun in the kitchen?
J+: How is this fish different from the seafood
SM: Enormous intelligence and
served at the Indian Ocean Beach Resort?
thoughtfulness about the way food works is
hotel restaurant and its executive chef and share his insights.
required. These include everything from the
Executive chef Samuel Matekeya has been in the industry for 25 years. He has come
SM: The fish from the lake is fresh, firm and
simple stuff, such as fruit and vegetables.
far in the last couple of decades, moving
tasty. By comparison, fish at the coast is too
High skills and inventive cooking can turn a
from an unseen figure in the kitchen to a
salty.
delicious meal into an artistic presentation.
J+: Twenty-five years is some
J+: What is it like to be on your feet for long
accomplishment. Do you consider yourself
hours in such a concentrated area?
culinary leader whose opinion is sought and followed.
sPotLess
successful? What steps did you take to reach where you are today?
SM: Restaurant kitchens are fast-paced and often stressful. Successful chefs have
The first sign of Samuel’s professionalism can be found in his spotless white
SM: I first considered being an engineer
to be dedicated to their craft. Putting a
attire. Years of dedication have resulted
before my brother encouraged me to join
meal together quickly and elegantly takes
in progressive ideas and techniques and a
Utalii College. I discovered my passion for
preparation and organisation. The ability
passion for cooking. With the right frame of
cooking at college and it’s a decision that I
to plan ahead helps me keep my cool in a
mind, Samuel has been able to attain this
have never regretted. after training I joined the
high-pressure kitchen environment. The
top position.
hospitality industry and realised my love for
kitchen is divided into sections where
the job. as I developed skills and furthered my
line cooks are responsible primarily for
Do we live to eat or eat to live? Samuel
education, I advanced up the culinary ladder
preparing the food, sous chefs, who are the
starts by acknowledging that everyone
and now at the Jacaranda Hotel restaurant I
head chef’s second in command. Sous chefs
deserves good food.
have been head chef for three years.
cook, help out the head chef whenever
10 I www.jacarandahotels.com
oceans of taLent Dishes are perfectly presented
needed and stand in for the head chef
classic and modern, in order to increase
important. The hotel hosts all nationalities,
during absence.
skills levels. They should also be able to
so I have developed a taste for Oriental and
refine individual styles. On-the-job training
have a sophisticated taste.
J+: good food is meant to be consumed
is important, but we also send our chefs
and appreciated with multiple senses. I
to Utalii College for refresher courses. The
J+: Your job involves a lot of responsibility
believe with mastery of food and flavour
more experience you have, the better the
and long hours. How are you able to
you evoke a variety of reactions. What is
chances of making a good start as a chef.
combine everything and still maintain your
your take on healthy living?
But an aspiring chef should be prepared to
sanity?
work hard. SM: a harmonious meal requires
YEaRS OF DEDICaTION HavE RESUlTED IN PROgRESSIvE IDEaS aND TECHNIQUES aND a PaSSION FOR COOKINg
cooperation in the kitchen. I direct the whole process and organise staff duties. I have also established and maintain contacts with reliable vendors to secure orders. luckily for the restaurant, we have a farm where we source most products.
SM: I believe heartily in healthy cooking.
J+: How do you rank yourself in
J+: Putting it all in perspective, you have
a good chef should be able to nourish the
competition with international standard
done such a remarkable job. You are
body.
cuisines, especially when at food promotion
brilliant, influential and famous in five-star
events around the world?
restaurants. What advice do you carry
J+: You’re such an inspiration with so
forward?
much talent, knowledge and experience to
SM: Meals don’t just feed us; they
aspiring chefs. What would you recommend
are a cultural ritual that civilises us. a
SM: You need to look the part, act the part
in regard to on-the-job training?
promotional activity at an international
and have enough knowledge. The client
food exhibition is great exposure. Extensive
is the king, so it’s essential to meet their
SM: First and foremost, one should
knowledge on creating menus that focus
needs and make a visit to our restaurant
specialise in sharing techniques, both
on Oriental cuisine around the world is
both worthwhile and satisfying.
I ISSUE 02 I 11
sPa
Day of pampering TREaTMENT HaS DONE WONDERS FOR MY SElF-ESTEEM
I
t’s a friday morning in early
I have not really looked after my body
december, and this day is going to be
since the year started. I put my trust in the
different from my normal routine.
expert, Charity, who advises me to go for a de-stress package consisting of sea salt
Every once in a while we need to escape –
scrub, massage, pedicure and manicure.
but who has the time? a day at the spa is a
already, I feel like a queen who knows she is
perfect getaway. Sneak off for a day, or even
going to be spoilt.
for a few hours, and allow yourself to be pampered and soothed from head to toe.
The professionalism of the staff is seen in Charity, who is helpful and knowledgeable.
Tension, stress and weariness have been
The lounge where I’m waiting for my
building up in my body. I need to call a halt
first treatment is stylish and elegant, with
if I’m going to avoid a burnout.
tranquil colours to put you in a calm and peaceful mood.
enticing Today, I have chosen to relax and reflect on the year’s achievements and shortcomings. and my recovery plan has taken me to one of the best treatment centres: the Jacaranda Spa in Westlands. In reception I meet Charity, head of therapy, who takes me through the spa menu.
reLaX and unWind The perfect treatment for the renewal of mind, body and soul
12 I www.jacarandahotels.com
WaY to heaLth Spa’s impressive entrance
a SPEll OF RElaXaTION CaN BE a DElIgHT TO THE SENSES. IT’S aMazINg WHaT a DIFFERENCE aN HOUR CaN MaKE TO THE RENEWal OF MIND, BODY aND SOUl I also notice the Kiswahili names given to
and I surrender my mind to the desire to
each therapy room: Tulia, meaning ‘relax’,
indulge my body.
and Pambo, meaning ‘beauty’. I’m led to the Tulia Room, with dimmed lights and
a spell of relaxation can be a delight to
subtly changing colours.
the senses. It’s amazing what a difference an hour can make to the renewal of mind,
as I embark on this spa adventure, I
body and soul.
know my skin is not in top condition. Environmental toxins and pore-clogging impurities are just some of the day-to-day enemies that attack healthy skin.
gLoWing We start with a 30-minute sea salt glow scrub as part of the de-stress package.
Charity recommends a scrub with sea
The scrub is rubbed gently all over my
salt glow that helps the skin stay healthy,
back, hands and feet. The exfoliating body
glowing and blemish-free. She says the
treatments remove dead surface skin cells
aggressive sea salt glow is perfect for a true
to leave the skin glowing. a variety of
spa enthusiast like me.
aromatherapy including lavender is used to help detoxify the body.
losing myself in a white oversized robe, I go to the comfortable bed and lie face
This treatment is recommended for those
down. The background music is soothing
with sensitive skin. It helps the body to
I ISSUE 02 I 13
Spa
rock harmony Melting tensions away
I sit back in the customised chair as my nails receive the utmost care. I’m given a soothing massage on my hand, legs and feet using essential lavender oil. My cuticles are cured and polished. With my treatment complete, I almost float out of the door, relaxed and with my nails gorgeously painted.
Promoting rest and restoration, these treatments are highly recommended to achieve true serenity
Over a cup of herbal tea in the lounge afterwards, I have a moment to contemplate the day. My tensions have been melted away and my whole being restored. The transformation of my skin is evident; now it is smooth, radiant, brilliant and a picture of youthful glow.
eliminate toxins and restore a natural
forearms, feet and back. A special blend of
balance. After the wonderful scrub
essential oils creates a signature aroma.
serenity
Few experiences in life can compare to the
Jacaranda spa has been an inspiration to
treatment I take a shower to wash off the sea salt particles.
benefits of a professional massage. My day
change my life by embracing a spiritual and
Next, I head for the steam bath, putting a
has been transformed by this wonderful
emotional transformation. Promoting rest
towel down before I sit, which is important.
stimulation of all my systems.
and restoration, these treatments are highly
A scent of eucalyptus is infused with the steam to assist with relaxation.
recommended to achieve true serenity. The last treatment is a pedicure and manicure designed to enhance one’s
It has made me celebrate my worth by
By this time I feel divine. It’s like stepping
natural beauty. In Jacaranda Spa, this
improving my self-image and my attitude
away from life’s havoc to find restoration.
treatment has been elevated into a
to everything. This kind of pure indulgence
After the steam my body feels incredibly
delightful ‘escape’.
is surely worth its weight in gold.
smooth and silky. Waiting quietly to be ushered to the next session, I am not just stress-free but in a joyous mood.
stress Next comes a targeted massage for relieving the kind of stress and muscle tension we all develop working at a computer. The main focus is the neck, shoulders, arms, hands, wrists and upper body. Cathy, an expert in massage therapy, says this experience will revive my energy and improve my blood circulation. The massage begins with a blend of essential oils on my back to relax the muscles. It is rubbed into my skin, focusing on the
I ISSUE 02 I 15
BOOK REVIEW BEYOND EXPECTATIONS
A Kenyan for all seasons BEYOND EXPECTATIONS From Charcoal to Gold
By Njenga Karume (with Prof. Mutu wa Gethoi)
N
jenga Karume is a survivor. In one
and held in Nairobi. In the ensuing trial,
knife-edge situation after another,
Karume argued so persuasively that
his resourcefulness and ability to stay
Wamuti, a long-time family friend, had
on good terms with tough people have
come to him looking for work rather than a
carried him through.Â
hiding place, that Karume was released at once and Wamuti was later given a lenient
One example from 1951, in the build-up
sentence of six months in prison or a stiff
to the Mau Mau Rebellion, illustrates his
fine. The fine was quickly paid by friends,
extraordinary gifts. When the Mau Mau
including Karume, and Wamuti was freed.
decided to target a Nairobi councillor, Review by John Tavner
Muchohi Gikonyo, who they thought was showing too much loyalty to the colonial
generous
powers, the assassination attempt was
The outstanding aspect of this episode,
bungled.
however, is that Karume became a good friend of Muchohi and his family ever
Soon afterwards, Karume, by now a
afterwards as well as remaining a good
successful young entrepreneur, was visited
friend of Wamuti. That says much for the
at home in Elburgon by two Mau Mau
generous nature of Karume.
leaders, who asked him to hide John Wamuti Muhongi. Having already taken an
I think Karume must have been born
oath of support for the Mau Mau cause,
with that rare quality known as charm.
Karume readily agreed to help. It was only
It would certainly explain how he has
later he discovered that Wamuti had been
managed to hold together the many
one of the would-be assassins.
contradictory sides of his life. Here is a man who grew up in comparative poverty
With typical resourcefulness, Karume
and with an understandably jaundiced
housed the fugitive in an abandoned
view of the wazungu (white settlers) and
bungalow deep in the forest near his home.
their treatment of African people, yet who
The authorities closed in fast, however, and
was clearly drawn to many aspects of the
both Wamuti and Karume were arrested
colonial way of life, including comfortable
16 I www.jacarandahotels.com
houses, good food and stylish clothes; a man who actively supported the Mau Mau and became a personal friend and
fearless and were the protectors
parliamentary colleague of Jomo Kenyatta,
of the community,” writes Karume. “Just
yet continued to run a successful business
the thought of them being whipped was
empire and was on good terms with
horrible.”
many important wazungu, some of whom cooperated with him on commercial
The simple truth of this statement is very
ventures; above all, a man with a rich sense
moving. It leads to some radical thoughts
of humour who would be the first to share
about just what the colonial powers of that
a laugh with a friend after using his talent
time thought they were up to. Karume
for bluff to escape from a tight corner.
doesn’t lecture the reader, however. He just
The authorities closed in fast, however, and both Wamuti and Karume were arrested and held in Nairobi Any vague notions about the idyllic ways
lays out the facts. And the gleam of hope
of colonial life in Kenya in the 1950s will
for the future is that he didn’t turn into a
be abruptly challenged by this book. For
hate-driven terrorist as a result of his early
example, Karume recalls how, as a child, he
experiences; instead, he used the positive
was appalled by the revelation that whites,
qualities of friendship and support for
and the African supervisors under them,
honest enterprise, driven along by a big,
were allowed to cane any native for any
cheerful, streetwise personality, to improve
offence. “I had always believed that my
the lot of his fellow Kenyans. Not a bad
father, uncles and adult neighbours were
legacy.
I ISSUE 02 I 17
List of
board MeMbers and biographies
Mary KiMotho M’MuKindia Mary is a dynamic international public servant with 30 years of working experience in both the public and private sectors. She worked with ExxonMobil in Kenya and abroad for 17 years before founding the Petroleum Institute of East Africa and becoming its first general manager for four years from 1999 to 2003. She also served as managing director of the National Oil Corporation of Kenya from 2003 to 2007 before joining the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP), where she served as a diplomat until the end of 2012. Her career has seen her in top leadership positions in the energy sector, civil society, government and, most recently, with the United Nations.
Jacaranda hotels board MeMbers Standing from left to right: Eng. Geoffrey Kamau, Albert Kigera, J.R. Njenga, James Kimondo. Seated from left to right: Kung’u Gatabaki, M. M’Mukindia (chairman) and Grace Njenga.
18 I www.jacarandahotels.com
Mary has served as a board member in various organisations, both private and charitable, including the Housing Finance Company, Kenya Petroleum Refineries, Kenya School of Professional Studies and the Red Court Hotel.
BOARD MEMBERS
Kung’u Gatabaki
James Raymond Njenga
James Kimondo Ngata
Kung’u Gatabaki is a retired banker, having worked for 30 years for Actis/CDC (formerly the Commonwealth Development Corporation), where he acquired experience in project finance, portfolio management and corporate board business.
James Njenga, known to friends, colleagues and associates as JR, has a long and distinguished record as a senior career civil servant, ranging from Assistant Director of Agriculture, Rift Valley Province, just after independence in 1967 to Commissioner of Lands for many years. JR also served as a Commissioner of the Kenya Electoral Commission of Kenya.
James is a seasoned, versatile and respected leader in the hospitality industry. He has over 12 years experience as a successful entrepreneur, having established Gazebo Hospitality and Hornbill Enterprises, whose suite of establishments includes Fish Eagle Inn, Club Sylk and Hornbill pubs.
Kung’u is chairman of the Capital Market Authority (CMA). He also serves on various company boards including chairman of Micro Kenya, Karume Holdings and Cianda Holdings. He has been a director with several companies including the Housing Finance Company, Mumias Sugar and the Serena Group of Hotels. He also served as chairman of the Karume Group of Companies for seven years from 2006 to 2012 when the group was restructured.
JR is chairman of Pelican Insurance Brokers (K) Ltd as well as chairman of Managu Ltd, which owns and manages properties. He is also a board member of the Kiambu Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Karume Holdings Ltd and Cianda Holdings Ltd.
Before that, he had an illustrious 14-year career with the Sarova Group, working in all their major establishments. He is the managing director of Gazebo Hospitality Ltd.
JR has had a long association with the Njenga Karume Trust group of companies and has served as a director with all the Karume Group of Companies since their inception in mid 1974.
Geoffrey Mbugua Kamau
Albert Kigera
The Rev. Grace Njoki Njenga
Eng Geoffrey Mbugua Kamau is executive director and technical consultant with a leading East African project management company, Pinnacle Projects Ltd. He has been a civil engineer for 26 years and has wide experience in the construction industry, both locally and internationally.
Albert is a qualified information technology specialist and has held the positions of IT manager and group procurement manager at Jacaranda Hotels Kenya. He has business interests in the hotel and telecommunications industry.
Eng Kamau serves as a board member with Pinnacle Projects Ltd, Home Africa Ltd (where he is chairman), Liberty Homes Ltd and Karume Holdings Ltd, among others.
Albert is also a director with Pelican Insurance Brokers Ltd and Enterprise Data Freedom.
The Rev. Grace Njenga is the widow of the late Hon. Dr James Njenga Karume. An ordained pastor of the Anglican Church of Kenya, Grace is also a businesswoman, farmer and mother. She has keen interests in large-scale farming an active member of the Kiambu community, participating in various charity activities. Grace is also a director of Karume Holdings Ltd and Cianda Holdings Ltd.
His core areas of interest include executive management, business development, project management, strategic planning and real estate development.
I ISSUE 02 I 19
Jacaranda PROFILES
profiles
Jacaranda
Geoffrey MbuGua KaMau With over 25 years’ experience as an engineer,
including Home Afrika Ltd (developer of Migaa)
registered with the Engineers Registration
and Pinnacle Projects Ltd, affirm the pedigree
Board, Geoffrey Mbugua Kamau brings a
and wide experience he brings to Jacaranda
diverse range of talents and skills to the board
Hotels Kenya.
of directors of Jacaranda Hotels Kenya. They include project and executive management; business development; strategic planning and management; and corporate governance. Geoffrey’s high quality academic qualifications
Among the many construction development projects in which Geoffrey has played a pivotal role, the new KCB Headquarters Building in Upperhill, Nairobi, stands out as one of his greatest achievements.
from the Eastern & Southern African Management Institute and his directorships in various companies
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GEOFFREY BRINGS A WIDE RANGE OF TALENTS TO JACARANDA HOTELS KENYA
JaMes KiMondo nGata As a seasoned and respected leader in Kenya’s
During a 25-year career, James has worked
hospitality industry, James brings his dedication
at the The Stanley Hotel and the Panafric
to professionalism, world-class best practices,
Hotel and founded Gazebo Hospitality Ltd,
good governance and corporate citizenship
which owns and manages the Fish Eagle Inn
to the board of directors of Jacaranda Hotels
in Naivasha, Club Sylk in Nairobi and three
Kenya.
Hornbill Pubs in Nairobi and Machakos.
JAMES BRINGS HIS DEDICATION TO PROFESSIONALISM TO THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF JACARANDA HOTELS KENYA
As an alumnus of Kenya Utalii College, James has also been trained in the finer points of hospitality management at various international education institutions including the Executive Management Hotel School in the Netherlands.
Mary KiMotho M’MuKindia Mary’s dynamism, thirst for creating new ideas
Company, Kenya Petroleum Refineries Ltd, the
and ability to motivate others to higher levels
Kenya School of Professional Studies and the
of achievement are among the skills she brings
Red Court Hotel, an affiliate of the Kenya Red
to the board of directors of Jacaranda Hotels
Cross.
Kenya.
Her talent for organisation, innovative practice
She has demonstrated her expertise in
and effective execution will be of immense
transformational leadership, management for
value to Jacaranda Hotels Kenya.
change and public administration. Mary was awarded the Moran of the Burning Spear for her role in reviving the fortunes of the National Oil Corporation of Kenya. Mary has served as a board member in various organisations including the Housing Finance
MARY WAS AWARDED THE MORAN OF THE BURNING SPEAR
I ISSUE 02 I 21
JACARANDA HOTELS INDEX head office & central reservations Jacaranda House, 56 Muthithi Road PO Box 14287 – 00800 Nairobi, Kenya Tel: +254 (0)20 444 8713/4/5/6/7 Fax: +254 (0)20 444 5818/6159/8977 Cell: +254 (0)722 205 486/7; (0)711 089500 Email: bookings@jacarandahotels.com Email: cro@jacarandahotels.com
Jacaranda hotel nairobi PO Box 14827-00800, Nairobi, Kenya Tel: +254 (0)20 444 8713/4 Fax: +254 (0)20 444 46159/444 8977 Cell: (0)711 089000 Email: cro@jacarandahotels.com
Jacaranda GyM & spa PO Box 14827-00800, Nairobi, Kenya Tel: +254 (0)20 444 8713/4/5/6/7 Fax: +254 (0)20 444 46159/444 8977 Email: gym.spa@jacarandahotels.com
Jacaranda indian ocean beach resort PO Box 73-80400, Ukunda, Diani Beach, Kenya Tel: +254 (0)40 320 3730 Fax: +254 (0)40 320 3557 Email: infoiobc@jacarandahotels.com
laKe eleMentaita lodGe PO Box 66, Gilgil, Kenya Tel: +254 (0)50 50 836/50 648 Fax: +254 (0)50 50 836 Email: lakeelementaita@jacarandahotels.com
piZZa Garden PO Box 14827-00800, Nairobi, Kenya Tel: +254 (0)20 444 8713/4 Fax: +254 (0)20 444 46159/444 8977 Email: bookings@jacarandahotels.com
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KENYA LAKE ELEMENTAITA LODGE
PIZZA GARDEN
JACARANDA HOTEL NAIROBI including Jacaranda Gym & Spa
AFRICA
JACARANDA INDIAN OCEAN BEACH RESORT KENYA
JACARANDA GYM & SPA
I ISSUE 02 I 23
JACARANDA GYM & SPA
Perfect pathway to fitness and well-being B
The spa
The gym also has steam room and sauna
The pressures of life and the fast-paced
The spa is devoted to enhancing the overall
changing rooms as well as a clean and
corporate scene have led to an increased
well-being of its customers by offering a
spacious rest area.
focus on body fitness and general well-
variety of body treatments to encourage and
being.
enhance the renewal of mind, body and soul.
ody fitness and wellness are the two hallmarks of Jacaranda Gym & Spa.
facilities in the women’s and men’s
Personal training This combines high-density workouts and
The Jacaranda Hotel in Nairobi has come
The spa offers personalised services and
nutritional counselling with the motivation
up with the perfect answer by creating
professional treatments designed to achieve
needed to reach and maintain long-term
Jacaranda Gym & Spa, one of the best
a head-to-toe sensory revival as well as
personal goals.
health clubs in Nairobi. This spacious and
cultivating inner and body strength and
ultra-modern health club, attached to the
creating a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.
hotel, offers something different for the fitness and wellness seeker.
cardiovascular endurance, improve strength
Spa services: • Massages
Beautiful gardens There is a large heated swimming pool as well as beautiful gardens and well-kept lawns, all helping to create an inviting and relaxing atmosphere. Designed and
Every lesson is structured to build and increase flexibility.
• Body treatments
Class exercise
• Facials and foot spas
• Introductory classes, aerobics
• Manicure and pedicure
• Sport conditioning, traditional
• Body treatments.
cardio training • Dance fitness • Spinning
equipped to meet the most discerning
The gym
expectations of its customers, Jacaranda
The well-equipped gym features the latest
Gym & Spa compares very favourably with
Life Fitness equipment. Professional fitness
For the mind and body
other similar facilities in and around the
trainers and gym instructors are on hand
• Stretch and relaxation
Kenyan capital.
to assist the guests and help them to meet
• Yoga
their fitness and wellness targets, whether
• T’ai chi (an ancient mind-body exercise).
There is free underground parking for
these consist of total fitness, controlled
members and the health club has its own
weight loss, body toning or any other
entrance separate from the hotel.
special need.
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• Step and athletic training.
relaX Guests can enjoy a range of professional treatments, or simply unwind in the heated swimming pool
I ISSUE 02 I 25
five-star service at a four-star price L
ocated in the heart of prime west-
after Block Hotels sub-leased it to the
lands business district, the Jacaranda
internationally recognised hospitality brand
hotel is the perfect property for business
Sheraton Hotels.
and leisure guests in search of five-star service at an affordable four-star price.
Unfortunately, Block Hotels went into receivership in 2003 and the property
One of the longest-established and best-
changed its name to the current Jacaranda
known hotels in Nairobi, Jacaranda began
Hotel.
life in the late 1950s as a training base for staff of the Italian oil company Agip and
Between the leaseholds, the hotel under-
by the early 1960s was also doubling as a
went continuous upgrades and expansion
42-room motel.
and today the accommodation comprises 128 rooms.
The property was subsequently acquired by the late Hon. Njenga Karume in 1963 and
In order to meet the accommodation
he continued to be involved in the hotel
requirements of its many business guests,
right up to his death in 2012.
the hotel has installed 48 new business executive suites and converted one wing of
In subsequent years, the hotel was trans-
the hotel to cater for business travellers.
formed as it was leased to various local and foreign hotel operators such as Alliance
In addition, the hotel has one of the best
Hotels when its name changed to Quality
equipped and most impressive health club
Inns. It was later leased to Block Hotels in
and spa facilities in Nairobi.
1995 and its name changed to Landmark Hotel.
conferencinG
It was during this period that the hotel
The hotel has various conference facilities to
brought new quality standards and proce-
cater for the needs of its business clientele.
dures to its operations. This led to the
These include the Wariara Conference
adoption of enhanced training programmes
Centre, which can accommodate up to 250
for staff and a gradual improvement in
delegates in theatre style, and the Palm,
services and product standards at the hotel.
Acacia and Jacaranda rooms, each of which can hold 40 people. There are also two
Between 1999 and 2001 the hotel changed
boardrooms, each with a capacity of 18
its name to Sheraton Four Points Hotel
people.
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swiMMinG pool The tranquil pool is ideal for cooling off
Guest rooM Modern furnishings and crisp white linen come as standard
at a Glance Choice of 128 tastefully furnished en-suite rooms suitable for all guests. Each room has: • Central ceiling fan • Direct-dial telephone • Satellite TV • Minibar • Electronic safe deposit • Work station area • Mosquito net on request • Tea/coffee-making facilities • 24-hour room service. • Private bathroom and toilet en-suite • Hairdryer Facilities & activities: • Gym and spa • Heated swimming pool
I ISSUE 02 I 27
luXury beach resort with a hint of arab antiQuity T
he Jacaranda indian ocean beach
antique chandelier that was given to the
resort (Jiobr) offers guests a
sultan by British traders in exchange for
perfect holiday getaway. the resort
landing rights.
covers 29 acres and sits on one of africa’s finest stretches of beach with wonderful
The JIOBR has a tastefully designed room
ocean views.
suitable for physically challenged guests. In addition to the amenities found in other
arabic influence
rooms, it has a walk-in shower and both
The resort opened in 1992 and is built
supports.
shower and toilet are fitted with hand
on the site of a 16th-century mosque. This exclusive and luxurious property was
There is a four-bedroomed villa suitable for
known originally as the Indian Ocean
families.
Beach Club. Like the Nairobi-based Hotel Jacaranda, it was at that time under the management of the now-defunct Block Hotels group.
conferencinG The Wariara Convention Centre is one of the largest conference facilities on the south
The architectural style of the beach resort
coast, with a capacity of about 300 people.
has an obvious Arabic theme, underlining the rich influence of the Swahili culture that was especially strong under the former rule of the Sultan of Zanzibar and is still apparent on the Kenyan coast. The property contains various antiques and relics from the sultan’s palace. The main reception area, for instance, features an
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service Hotel guests receive attentive service
sea breeZe Guest relax by the pool, which overlooks the Indian Ocean
at a Glance The resort has 100 deluxe rooms (including 25 ocean-facing rooms), all handsomely designed and delightfully furnished in Swahili style. Each room has: • En-suite bathroom with bath/shower and separate toilet • Minibar and tea/coffee-making facilities • Air conditioning and ceiling fan • Safes • Hairdryer • Own veranda • Smoke detectors • Room attendance and evening turndown. Facilities & activities: • Kids’ club • Water sports • Diving • Massage & salon • Tennis • Volleyball
I ISSUE 02 I 29
eXperience the special aMbience of happy valley T
he spectacular lake elementaita
The name came from the monthly social
lodge is situated in over 100
meetings that brought together colonial
delightful acres on the banks of lake
farmers and leaders from across the Rift
elementaita. the lodge’s main building,
Valley, Nairobi and Central regions.
which contains the principal restaurant, is a relic of the colonial era. built as a farmhouse in 1916, it was originally
conferencinG
owned by the pioneer settler Galbraith
The lodge has an ideal excellent conference
lowry egerton cole.
setting in a relaxed country atmosphere. The conference room is fully equipped to
The lodge is located just off the Nakuru-
meet the needs of conference groups and
Nairobi highway about 170 km from the
can accommodate 50 people. A secretariat
Kenyan capital.
and conference amenities are available on request
spectacular In front of the main house is a terrace overlooking neat lawns in the foreground and shimmering Lake Elementaita beyond. The lodge is in an area known somewhat infamously in colonial times as Happy Valley.
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perfect settinG Breakfast ‘al fresco’ with a beautiful view
shady retreat The terrace overlooks well-kept lawns
at a Glance The lodge has 33 rooms (11 triples and 22 twins). Each room has: • A fireplace • Bath and shower • Own veranda Facilities & activities: • Large swimming pool • Horse riding • Nature walks • Birdwatching • Visits to Kariandusi prehistoric site
I ISSUE 02 I 31
header HEADER
eatery with an authentic italian flavour N
airobi’s pizza Garden is a popular meeting spot for local people
and visitors who appreciate good food and warm hospitality in an easy-going setting. Built in the 1950s, Pizza Garden was originally an eating place that provided Italian meals for trainees of the Italian oil company Agip at the former Agip Motel, now the Jacaranda Hotel.
traditional Since its acquisition by Jacaranda Hotels Group, Pizza Garden has maintained its Italian tradition and is perhaps the only place in Nairobi where a truly authentic Italian pizza is made the traditional way in a coal-fired oven. This tradition has been maintained over the years thanks to constant training and the
families. Pizza Garden also has a lively
handing down of culinary skills from the
nightclub with theme nights to cater for
former Italian pizza cooks to the restau-
fans of contemporary African music (Rumba
rant’s modern-day chefs. This explains why
Afrique) as well as rock, soul, jazz and the
the pizzas at this restaurant have a superior
latest hits and wide-screen coverage of
taste and colour.
major sports events.
Today, the Pizza Garden is a vibrant and
Apart from pizzas, other dishes can be
informal restaurant, open seven days a
ordered à la carte. The menu includes
week. It has a children’s playground that
burgers, grilled items, vegetarian dishes
makes it a popular weekend venue for
and snacks.
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italian style Mouth-watering pizzas