Meet Lamu’s Elderly ‘Beach Boy’ Abdallah Ziwa

When you meet Mr. Abdallah Ziwa, wandering through the streets of Lamu Island or along the shores of the Indian Ocean, you might think he’s just a senior citizen enjoying his golden years.

But on another day when you see Mr. Ziwa in this relaxed state, know that he’s hard at work, diligently searching for treasures while making sure life keeps pace.

Mr. Ziwa is a Tour Guide serving tourists and visitors exploring Lamu, whether they come from other countries or different regions within Kenya.

At the age of 74, Mr. Ziwa has no intention of retiring, despite having started this profession when he was just 18 years old. He has been in the business for nearly 56 years now.

He hails from the Langoni neighborhood on Lamu Island. A father of seven, he was born in 1949.

He says that despite the passage of time, he has no desire to leave his work, as it is something he loves.

“I love my job every day. I started this when I was just 18 years old. Today, I’m 74. It’s been 56 years working, and I have no intention of retiring. I’ve built friendships with my clients, especially tourists from abroad. I love this job with all my heart and soul,” said Mr. Ziwa.

He has worked in areas like Watamu and Malindi in Kilifi County. He has also worked in Mombasa and is now in his home county of Lamu.

When asked about the secret behind his long career, Mr. Ziwa believes that a key factor is being neat and respecting the tourists and visitors he serves.

He also credits his decision to avoid drugs, alcohol, and any other vices as a crucial element that enables him to work diligently.

He criticizes many of the current coastal tourist guides, particularly young ones, who often use substances like marijuana, alcohol, and other drugs before performing their duties.

“These young people entering the tourist guiding sector at the coast have given us, the older guides, a bad reputation. You will find these young ones using drugs, especially marijuana, alcohol, and other substances, which push them to disrespect tourists.

To succeed in this sector, people should avoid drugs and excessive alcohol. I’ve been working for over five decades, and I’m still going strong,” said Mr. Ziwa.

Mr. Ziwa urged other tourist guides working along the coast to ensure they obtain the necessary licenses for their operations. He emphasized that obtaining licenses would reduce incidents of harassment experienced by tourists and visitors.

“I am officially registered here as a tourist guide. There are some who are fake. These young people, first, they are the ones who use drugs extensively and then perpetrate violence against tourists. They tarnish our image. To become a legitimate tourist guide, you must first obtain a license,” said Mr. Ziwa.

In addition to being the most senior tourist guide in Lamu, Mr. Ziwa is also the Chairman of the Tourist Guides Union in the area.

Some Lamu residents, especially those in the tourism sector where Mr. Ziwa operates, describe him as a gentleman, a friend to everyone, and a hard worker.

Mohamed Abubakar, who is among the tourist guides in Lamu and has worked in the industry for 37 years, said Mr. Ziwa is a great teacher who has significantly helped develop and advance his career.

“I see Mr. Ziwa as my teacher or trainer. When I was born and started working in this field as a child, I found Mr. Ziwa already an expert in this profession. His guidance has helped many of us excel in our work. He gets along with everyone, regardless of their character. He is an example to us,” said Mr. Abubakar.