FIRESIDE CHATS WITH THE LEGAL GAL: BORDER TOWN EDITION
In my previous article in the series, ‘Fireside Chats with the Legal Gal’, I wrote on our presence in Nairobi City County, and how it shaped my legal journey – https://mmsadvocates.co.ke/nairobi-city-county-the-epic-rat-race/
Have a read, let us know what you think and what more you’d like to know about our work at MMS Advocates LLP and how we could be of service. Thank you.
Lunga Lunga is a municipality in Kwale County, Kenya that holds a strategic position in the extreme southeastern part of the country, near the border with Tanzania. It was formed through grant of a municipal charter. The municipality is governed by a Board in line with the provisions of the Urban Areas and Cities Act, 2011. Lunga Lunga is situated approximately six kilometers away from the border between Kenya and Tanzania. This close proximity to Tanzania fosters cross-border trade and cultural exchange, making the municipality an important hub for economic growth, regional interactions, rich history and natural beauty.
Beyond its strategic position, Lunga Lunga boasts breathtaking natural landscapes and a diverse ecosystem. The town is surrounded by lush greenery, rolling hills, and stunning coastal scenery, making it an appealing destination for nature enthusiasts. And for me: considering I had been on the other side of this very border a few years back. You, dear reader, will be seeing that very soon.
Lunga Lunga is also deeply rooted in Swahili culture, which is prominent throughout the coastal regions of Kenya. The local community takes pride in its cultural heritage and traditions, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the vibrant Swahili way of life. From the tantalizing flavors of Swahili cuisine to traditional music and dance performances, Lunga Lunga provides a rich cultural experience for those seeking an authentic glimpse into the local traditions.
In terms of investment in this border post town, key sectors for investment include trade and logistics, agriculture and the blue economy, real estate, and tourism. I came across more information on what each sector entails:
Cross-border trade and logistics:
- Border hub: Lunga Lunga serves as a vital cross-border transit hub between Kenya and Tanzania. The Kenyan side has better road infrastructure, while improvements are being made on the Tanzanian side to boost activity.
- Major road corridor: The multinational Bagamoyo-Tanga-Horohoro/Lunga Lunga-Malindi Road project is set to significantly boost regional integration, trade, and tourism by reducing travel time and improving connectivity.
- Digital connectivity: The recent launch of the Dar-es-Salaam–Mombasa Terrestrial Fibre Link connects Lunga Lunga with high-speed internet, opening new opportunities for e-commerce, digital services, and telecommuting.
- Lunga Lunga market: The construction of new market stalls and other amenities is designed to improve conditions for traders and boost business. The market is particularly active on Fridays.
Investment opportunities:
- Warehousing and transport: Investment is needed in modern warehousing facilities, customs brokerage services, and transport logistics to streamline the flow of goods across the busy border.
- Trade-related services: Opportunities exist for businesses that cater to traders and transport personnel, such as eateries, lodging, and financial services like money transfer and forex.
Agriculture and the blue economy:
Aquaculture:
- County initiatives: Kwale County, with support from projects like the World Bank-funded KEMFSED, is heavily promoting aquaculture in Lunga Lunga. The county government has established fish ponds and distributed fingerlings to local fish farming groups.
- Investment opportunities: Investment is welcome in fish farming, fish processing and value addition, and the supply of modern fishing equipment.
Oil-bearing crops:
- Fairoils project: Social enterprise Fairoils has established a commercial farm and processing facility in Lunga Lunga, partnering with thousands of small-scale farmers to grow oil-bearing crops.
- Investment opportunities: Investment in agricultural processing facilities and supporting small-scale farmers with new crops could be profitable.
Blue economy infrastructure:
- Coastal development: Lunga Lunga falls under Kwale County’s broader “blue economy” development plan, which includes infrastructure for fisheries and aquaculture.
- Investment opportunities: Potential investments include modern cold storage facilities, fish landing sites, and fish processing plants.
Real estate and construction:
Lunga Lunga’s new municipal status and infrastructural upgrades are boosting investor confidence, with significant opportunities in real estate.
- Residential development: Improved infrastructure and accessibility make Lunga Lunga attractive for residential real estate development.
- Commercial properties: Demand is growing for commercial properties like retail space, offices, and accommodations to support the increasing trade and business activity.
Tourism and hospitality:
Though primarily a border town, Lunga Lunga benefits from Kwale County’s broader tourism strategy, which aims to leverage the coastal attractions.
- Blue economy tourism: Future development of the blue economy could open up eco-tourism opportunities.
- Hospitality services: Growth in cross-border travel and business brings demand for quality hotel and restaurant services.
Take a walk with me in Part 2 of the Lunga Lunga series; where I delve deeper into the inner workings of this diverse town. My colleague, Mary, had written something as well: on what MMS Advocates LLP will be offering to the citizens, residents and visitors of the furthest border town this side of Kenya.
Kasichana Riziki Mumba is an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya, and an associate at MMS Advocates LLP. She is passionate about the rule of law, justice and creatively combining the world of artivism (art and activism), nature and ESG into her work.
