The Manda Projects
We are pioneering the first comprehensive non-profit culinary training institute in Lamu, Kenya. Our mission is to create life-changing career opportunities for underprivileged youth, with a particular focus on empowering young women who face cultural barriers to professional growth.
Through a curriculum centered on Swahili cooking traditions and local ingredients, combined with the mentorship of Michelin-star chefs, we aspire to nurture a new generation of culinary talent. The program will not only equip youth with world-class skills but will also celebrate and revitalize the rich culinary heritage of Lamu.
By integrating a real-life restaurant training setting, we aim to prepare youth for leadership roles in the global culinary industry while placing Lamu on the map as a hub for excellence and innovation in African cuisine. We intend to convert a historic building in central Lamu, making it a landmark that will be noticed by all visitors. The project is led by Andreas Viestad, chef, television presenter and founder of Geitmyra Culinary Center for children in Oslo. He has extensive experience in the region, having established one of Zanzibar’s most renowned restaurants.
Partner
The Manda Projects
STATUS: Exploratory