By Abdullahi Jamaa
Wajir was once known for its old traditional lifestyle rooted in pastoralism. It had a reputation for its harsh environment and a monotonous way of life. However, the town, officially established in 1912 as a colonial headquarters, is now rapidly evolving to keep pace with the modern world.
Over the last decade, Wajir has undergone a remarkable transformation, a much-needed facelift of both public and private infrastructure, offering residents a fresh glimpse into modern civilisation, far removed from the archaic nomadic life that still lingers in its remote hinterlands.
The town has not only developed but continues to grow, giving its people a taste of global living. This transformation cuts across all sectors, painting a brighter future on the horizon and giving residents renewed optimism.
Once a desert outpost, Wajir now boasts a growing list of resorts, restaurants, and lodges that provide an archetypal holiday experience. No longer just a stopover or a forgotten frontier, Wajir is turning the tables on its past.
It is emerging as a new frontier in resort tourism, drawing in holidaymakers eager to explore its serene landscapes, vibrant traditions, and warm, homegrown hospitality. The county remains a unique treasure, home to one of Africa’s last strongholds of camel culture and rich livestock heritage.
Indeed, Wajir is steadily carving a name for itself as a hidden gem in northern Kenya, with new facilities setting the bar higher for comfort, culture, and innovation. For the discerning traveller, the journey no longer ends at Wajir, it begins there.
Welcome to Home 008, a standout facility in the heart of this transformation, offering an experience where comfort meets culture.
Imall, the home of Home 008, remains one of the most quintessential destinations for holidaymakers in Wajir. With its contemporary ambience, it offers visitors and residents alike a touch of a cosy, modern getaway.
Imall’s imposing structure has redefined Wajir’s skyline especially at night when its towering elegance, bathed in the glow of glimmering lamps, creates an electrifying and almost cinematic experience.
The entry of Imall has undoubtedly positioned Wajir as a promising holiday destination for both domestic and foreign tourists seeking an escape from the typical tourism hotspots. Its arrival was long overdue, but, as they say “good things take time” and the timing couldn’t have been better.
Mr Tom Wasike, the ever-enthusiastic manager at Imall, is proud of what the facility has achieved since its inception in February 2023. It marked the beginning of a bold new chapter in Wajir’s hospitality sector, one that is fast shaking off decades of dormancy.
“The idea was to uplift devolution by introducing modern accommodation facilities, boost the local hospitality industry, and create meaningful employment opportunities,” Wasike says. “That was the main purpose behind Imall.”
Home 008: A jewel within
Home 008, the mall’s flagship accommodation facility, offers an elegant fusion of services. It is a state-of-the-art lodging facility with tastefully furnished rooms and a restaurant serving an à la carte menu.
“At Imall, we offer a comprehensive suite of hospitality services,” adds Wasike. “We have the Sky Joint restaurant, conference facilities, office spaces for lease, and air ticketing services.”
Hospitality management, often described as “not everyone’s cup of tea”, is no walk in the park. Yet Home 008 is operated by a passionate team of seasoned hoteliers who run the facility with palpable zeal and zest.
“Our management team is professional and customer-centric. We aim to exceed client expectations,” says Wasike. “Many of our clients are satisfied.”
The team’s shared vision is not only to deliver exceptional service but also to reimagine Wajir as a holiday destination that harmonises modern luxury with rich cultural experiences.
Sky Joint: Where culture meets cuisine
Sky Joint, the mall’s crown jewel restaurant, offers a rich blend of global and Somali cuisine. Widely regarded as one of the finest eateries in the town, its culinary offering marries contemporary trends with authentic local flavours.
The restaurant boasts the best tea in town including its signature premium goat milk tea. Lifting a steaming cup to your lips is just the beginning; Sky Joint’s menu is a symphony of delectable dishes.
From hearty Somali Arosto, savory Swahili Biryani, to the classic temptation of a full English breakfast, every meal is a celebration. Whether it’s a family lunch, a friendship feast, or a laid-back get-together, Sky Joint hits the spot.
Accommodation: A home away from home
With 33 upscale hotel rooms, Home 008 is a sanctuary, a home away from home, perfect for staycations or a peaceful retreat from the life’s hustle and bustle.
It attracts clientele from both public and private sectors, offering a unique experience in the heart of Wajir, a county that is fast emerging as a regional gem. Its elegant rooms have also become a favourite for honeymooners seeking blissful post-wedding moments. There’s something for every couple looking to make lasting memories in a stylish setting.
Imall also boasts top-tier conference facilities tailored to meet business needs. Its packages are designed to ensure a seamless and productive meeting experience.
“We have four modern conference rooms,” explains Wasike. “The largest can accommodate 200 people and the smallest 30. All essential items and equipment are provided.”
Challenges on the ground
Like many enterprises in Wajir, the hospitality sector is not without its fair share of bottlenecks. One major hurdle is logistics, most premium supplies, especially fresh produce, must be sourced from Nairobi. Ensuring timely delivery to maintain high standards is a constant balancing act.
Staffing also remains a persistent challenge. Trained hoteliers and skilled personnel are in short supply locally. While the facility offers job opportunities to locals, the industry often requires expertise that is not readily available.
Another pressing issue is the unreliable electricity supply. Frequent outages disrupt operations, affecting service delivery. While Imall has a high-capacity backup generator, the management acknowledges power interruptions as an operational headache. Plans are underway to adopt solar energy for a more stable and cost-effective power source.
Expansion on the Horizon
Looking ahead, Imall plans to broaden its horizons by adding new services to attract a more diverse clientele. In the pipeline are a modern swimming pool, a dedicated children’s playground, and a classic rooftop coffee house.
These additions are expected to stimulate further economic growth and expand job opportunities for locals, while enriching the mall’s portfolio of contemporary holiday experiences.
No doubt, Imall stands as a beacon of change “a game-changer” in Wajir’s evolving economic narrative. It inspires local holidaymakers to consider homegrown options and draws in curious foreign tourists.
“We also accommodate people from abroad” Wasike adds. “We’ve had guests from Europe and the USA staying with us and enjoying our facilities.”
