Isn’t it remarkable how this imposing structure, Lamu Fort, has stood here for centuries? It has silently witnessed the ebb and flow of Lamu’s history. The Lamu Fort is more than just a building. It is a testament to the resilience and strategic importance of this island.
Originally situated on the waterfront, Lamu Fort now stands inland. It is about 70 meters from the main jetty. The fort’s central position reflects how the town has grown around it.
Let’s step back in time to the early 19th century. Construction of Lamu Fort began around 1813. It continued until about 1821. The Sultan of Pate, Fumomadi, initiated it. Abdalla bin Hemed, a Mazrui leader, was also involved. After Fumomadi’s death in 1809, construction stalled.
Then in 1812, Lamu secured an unexpected victory. They won the Battle of Shela against Pate and Mombasa. This victory highlighted the need for stronger defenses. Lamu appealed to Oman for assistance. Said bin Sultan, the Sultan of Muscat and Oman, responded. He helped complete the fort.
The Lamu Fort became a symbol of Omani influence. Sultan Sayyid Said sent a governor to Lamu around 1814. He also provided a garrison of Baluchi soldiers. These soldiers protected the town. Security around the fort encouraged further construction in the 19th century.
Interestingly, early descriptions paint a different picture of Lamu Fort. Thomas Boteler visited in 1823. He described it as a large square building. It had towers at each corner. However, he noted its flimsy construction. He doubted it could withstand the discharge of its own cannons. Captain W. F. W. Owen visited around the same time. He described the fort as one hundred yards square. Its walls were forty to fifty feet high.
Lamu’s importance grew at the expense of Pate. The Sultan used Lamu Fort as a base. From there, he defeated Mazrui rebels in Mombasa. He established control over the East African coast. He later moved his capital to Zanzibar. Consequently, Lamu declined economically compared to Mombasa and Zanzibar.
The fort has served many purposes over the years. In 1910, the British colonial administration converted Lamu Fort into a prison. During the 1950s, Mau Mau detainees were held here. After Kenya’s independence, it remained a prison until 1984.
In 1984, the National Museums of Kenya took over. They transformed the fort into a museum. The Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency provided assistance. Restoration was undertaken carefully. Lamu Fort was declared a scheduled monument on May 15, 1984. A temporary exhibition opened in 1993.
Today, Lamu Fort serves the community. The ground floor houses a museum. Its exhibition focuses on environmental conservation. The courtyard hosts meetings, weddings, and public performances. The second floor contains offices, laboratories, and a workshop. There is even a rentable conference facility. The fort also houses a library. It features an excellent collection of Swahili poetry and reference materials on Lamu.
From the ramparts, you can enjoy panoramic views of the town. It is a perfect spot to reflect on the fort’s long and varied history. Lamu Fort stands as a reminder. It embodies Lamu’s past and present. It is a place where history, culture, and community converge.