On Wednesday night, at the RGS in London, James Nampaso picked up the prestigious accolade of Best Safari Guide at the Wanderlust World Guide Awards 2019. Over 4000 guides received nominations, he now owns this covetous prize. 12 years ago James was a tent attendant. We are all just so proud.
James was quick to defer praise to his colleagues: ‘It may be me picking up the award but this is about everyone at Kicheche, from the guy who transfers people from Jomo Kenyatta to the chefs who prepare mouth-watering meals and to the bar staff, managers and indeed office staff. I cannot do my job properly without these heroes.’
James has been with Kicheche 15 years. He joined a small independent company which is still proudly independent, just a little bigger. Kicheche have garnered many accolades along the way but right now this one tops the acacia.
I am not sure what James has made of Oyster cards, the frost this morning or indeed his evangelical reception from all of you who made the journey to Kensington, he looked dazed but also happy. He should be.
James with his mentor, Boniface Ole Mpario: Kicheche Camps Head Guide 2003-2007.
He is a remarkable guide, but then again so are all of them. When he has finished signing autographs and opening supermarkets he will return to the Conservancy he and so many of you call home.
James’s achievement rightly made the newspapers this week…click link for full story here
