Sarova Hotels & Resorts, Kenya’s leading indigenous hospitality brand, marked its 50th anniversary with a grand celebration attended by key industry players, partners, and dignitaries. The event, held at Sarova Panafric Hotel, was graced by Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Hon. Rebecca Miano, who praised Sarova for its pivotal role in boosting the country’s tourism and hospitality industry.
Founded in April 1974 with the opening of the Ambassadeur Hotel in Nairobi, Sarova Hotels has grown from a modest start to become a household name in Kenya’s hospitality sector. Today, Sarova operates nine iconic properties offering 1,165 guest rooms across Kenya, including renowned lodges, game camps, and city hotels.
Reflecting on the brand’s 50-year journey, Sarova Hotels Managing Director, Jimi Kariuki, shared, “This is not just a celebration of a milestone; it’s a reflection of Sarova’s resilience, innovation, and relentless commitment to delivering world-class guest experiences. For half a century, we’ve embraced change and challenges, always staying true to our values of excellence and service.”
Over the past five decades, Sarova Hotels & Resorts has expanded its portfolio and diversified its business. The brand now includes hotel management services, strategic partnerships, and the opening of specialty restaurants. Sarova has managed several prestigious properties across Kenya, including the iconic Sarova Mara Game Camp, Sarova Woodlands Hotel & Spa in Nakuru, and Sarova Imperial Hotel in Kisumu. The firm’s franchise model has also grown, with the recent addition of Sarova Maiyan Resort Nanyuki.
Sarova’s reach extends beyond tourism. The brand has remained a committed partner in community development, investing in wildlife conservation, education, healthcare, and sustainability initiatives. “At Sarova, we believe in the power of community and culture. We are not just offering accommodation and culinary experiences; we are enriching lives and making a tangible impact through our social responsibility projects,” Kariuki added.
Cabinet Secretary Hon. Rebecca Miano lauded Sarova’s contributions to the tourism sector, emphasizing how the brand’s strategic presence in Nairobi and other key regions has strengthened Kenya’s appeal as a top destination for both business and leisure travelers. “Sarova stands as a symbol of Kenya’s rich hospitality heritage. Its properties serve as hubs for tourists not just in Kenya but across East Africa, contributing significantly to the region’s tourism success,” she remarked.
Hon. Miano also noted that Sarova’s long-standing presence and high standards have made it a preferred choice for local and international visitors, enhancing Kenya’s position as a key player in the global hospitality industry.
Sarova Hotels continues to push the boundaries of innovation. In 2023, the brand launched its first standalone specialty restaurant, Thai Chi by Sarova, in Nairobi. This new venture is an extension of the popular Thai Chi Restaurant at Sarova Stanley and highlights the company’s commitment to offering diverse, high-quality dining experiences.
With this innovative approach, Sarova is well-positioned to continue expanding its footprint, while staying rooted in its core values of excellence and customer-centric service.
As Sarova Hotels & Resorts celebrates this golden milestone, the brand is looking toward the future with a focus on sustainability, community engagement, and expanding its reach. Sarova’s journey, marked by resilience and adaptability, is a testament to its leadership in the hospitality industry.
The 50th anniversary celebration was a momentous occasion, but for Sarova, the journey is far from over. With a growing portfolio and a commitment to making a lasting impact, the next chapter promises to build on the legacy of the past 50 years.
