At last, thanks to the Italians and especially the residents working in the tourism sector, Watamu has a new and modern ambulance to respond to emergencies. A service, mind you, for the entire community that improves health security and in collaboration with the Watamu Reef Hospital.
With the expansion of the town, which has now become a leading international holiday destination and is set to grow in popularity and attendance, it had become necessary to be able to provide both initial assistance to tourists and residents (not only Italians, of course) who might have problems that cannot be treated locally. Unfortunately, in the last two seasons we have witnessed cases of foreigners, even our own countrymen, who could have been saved with a quick transfer to hospital.
This was difficult when the ambulance had to come from Malindi and back, or go directly to Mombasa. Thanks to Dr. Nurein, former owner of the Star Hospital in Malindi and now of the Watamu Reef, which finally fills a gap in care, treatment and hospitalisation in the township, a first aid facility is already operational, and the ambulance, in addition to arriving quickly in every area of Watamu, will be available to everyone for prompt transfer to a suitable facility, should the need arise.

"The expense was not minimal," admits Riccardo Lenzi, promoter and major financial backer, with the family that owns 7Island Resort, Crystal Bay, Paparemo Beach and Tamu Restaurant, "but thanks to the collaboration with Daniele Tiritò of the Jacaranda Resort, we mobilised the Watamu community, not only the hoteliers, but also other activities. The response of those who understood the importance of the operation and of 'teamwork' was there: we managed to arrive at the necessary sum, with the fundamental contribution of Dr. Nurein, and now we have a jewel that we hope will save lives and which in any case represents a service and safety for those who frequent Watamu".
Besides the Lenzi Group and Jacaranda, the other businesses that contributed are Lily Palm-Mapango, Bravo Watamu Beach, Garoda Resort, Visiwa Beach Resort, Non Solo Gelato, Amani Sea Resort and Taste Italy.