Support to Local Organisations
There are a number of community-based organisations working in Shela and Lamu which are dedicated to conservation, education and improving the lives of the local people who live here. All the organisations gratefully accept contributions which can be given to them directly, online or through the village chief or community chairman. Most hotels can make the necessary introductions during your visit and there are official receipts given by each organisation.
Lamu Marine Conservation Project (LAMCOP)
Sponsored by the TUSK Trust and the Peponi Hotel, the Lamu Marine Conservation Project is dedicated to protecting and preserving marine life, and especially focuses on conservation of sea turtles. There are four species here, all of which are endangered. You can sponsor a nest or a turtle and even visit hatching nests. The organisation is also dedicated to raising awareness in the community about environmental issues and works particularly with children.
Lamu Animal Welfare Clinic
Lamu Animal Welfare Clinic is a charity registered in Kenya funded by donors like you to provide animal care and thereby alleviate suffering of thousands of animals who would otherwise have no vet. The clinic promotes better treatment of animals as well as providing free services to locals to encourage them to bring their sick and wounded into the clinic.
The Donkey Sanctuary
Located in Lamu Town the Donkey Sanctuary provides veterinary care to ensure the well-being of these hard-working and essential animals. You can visit the sanctuary and see the animals - it is easy to find on the seafront.
Shella Bursary Fund
This fund supports dozens of boys and girls enrolled in secondary schools and up to the college level. The fund makes it possible for these fortunate children to remain in education, gaining valuable training and skills. Every year around Christmas time a very lively fundraising is held in the village of Shella and recently donations exceeded 1.2 million KES.
Sailing Doctors
Provides basic medical care to the remote areas of the Lamu archipelago. The group organizes mobile clinics by motorized dhow and a cross-country motorbike. The project is very cost effective and all salaried employees are Kenyan. In 2010 Sailing Doctors saw over 9,000 patients (excluding Shela) and carried out over 1,600 vaccinations.
Hands Up for Kids
This Lamu-based organization educates and empowers the children of Kenya by providing tools for alleviating poverty and building a healthy, sustainable environment. They strive to achieve the Millennium Development Goals and incorporate the peace-building foundations of the Art of Living.
Lamu Safi Group & Community Project
Lamu Safi Group is a community based organisation, made up of like-minded individuals who want to see a cleaner Lamu, for the benefit of all. It is registered with the Department of Social Services. The group works together with the community and local officials, through education programmes and implementing practical projects, to achieve a cleaner Lamu, for everyone’s benefit.
Shela Environmental Residents Group (SERG)
This organisation is dedicated to maintaining and preserving the open spaces of Shela in the wake of development. It is also solely responsible for keeping Shela's streets clean and supervising the disposal of rubbish in a responsible manner, employing six people and two donkeys full time.
Please e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for further information or to suggest other reputable Lamu Island NGOs or Charities.
