About Friends of Lamu Cultural Heritage

    Friends of Lamu Cultural Heritage (FLCH) is a community-led initiative dedicated to protecting, celebrating, and reimagining the living heritage of Lamu Old Town. We restore historic coral stone homes, revive traditional Swahili craftsmanship, and empower local communities to own and sustain their cultural legacy. By bringing together local custodians, conservationists, and global partners, we ensure that heritage remains a vibrant part of everyday life. We believe heritage is not just what we inherit — it's what we live, use, and pass on with care.

    Our Mission

    To restore historic buildings and create engaging public spaces in Lamu Old Town that raise awareness and appreciation of cultural heritage, promote economic sustainability, and ensure the town’s resilience for future generations.

    Traditional craftsman preserving Swahili heritage through basket weaving

    Our Vision

    We envision Lamu as a thriving, energetic historic town — one that provides sustainable growth and meaningful livelihoods for its people, while rejuvenating and celebrating the richness of Swahili culture. Lamu Old Town will stand as a global model for living cultural heritage, where tradition and innovation coexist, and where the community leads the way in preserving and shaping its future.

    Aerial view of Lamu waterfront showing the vibrant community and sustainable tourism development

    Our Objectives

    1. Strengthen pride in historical home ownership
    2. Raise awareness and appreciation of cultural heritage
    3. Address environmental and climate change challenges
    4. Promote economic sustainability within the Old Town
    Historic Fort Siyu representing the enduring strength of Lamu's cultural values and heritage

    Join Our Heritage Movement

    Whether you're a local community member, cultural enthusiast, or potential partner, there are many ways to support our mission of heritage regeneration.