Safety in Lamu

As promised, I am going to write a quick blog post about the safety situation in Lamu, hopefully to assuage any fears anyone has.  I am aware of the risks and always use a lot of precautions when I am traveling, but I want to point out ways that media coverage might be influencing how you see the place where I am living.

In 2014 there were terrorist attacks in Hindi and Mpeketoni towns.  Al-Shabbab took responsibility for the attacks.  These towns are in Lamu county, and I am in Lamu county.  However, these towns are in mainland Kenya, while I am on a relatively isolated island. 

On the map you can see where I live, at the red marker over Lamu.  Hindi is near the top of the map, Mpeketoni over in the bottom left corner.  Yes, in the huge scheme of things, these places are not too far away from me.  In terms of traveling in Kenya, these places are pretty far away.  Lamu island is huge, and the only way to get to it is via boat.  People who arrive by plane or boat must go to one of a few jetties in Lamu when they arrive.

There are other ways that Lamu differs from the mainland towns that suffer from the threat of terrorism and organized violence.  Lamu has a great diversity of cultures and religions, but Islam is the most visible religion, and many customs and mores revolve around that.  Being recognized as an important center of Islam in Kenya, Lamu island is not a target for radicals.  Most Muslims are not radical!  People live very peaceful lives here, and there is great respect among different groups.  There is also a sort of small town security system here.  People take notice of outsiders and anything that seems amiss.  People really look out for watch other here in “Small Paradise”.  The fact that it is essentially a dry island makes a difference, too.  Ever notice how alcohol raises tempers and violence?

It is not perfect, no place is, and I am very vigilant at all times.  Although I have been assured it is safe, I never go out alone at night, avoid public gatherings, and just try to blend into the crowd as much as a mzungu can.  I feel happy, secure, and very glad that I decided to take a leap and come to Lamu Tamu.