Built in 1895, The Old Boma was a German fort and the Southern HQ and remained an important administrative post under the British until 1947 when development moved to nearby Mtwara.

Since this time Mikindani’s historic buildings, with influences from many cultures, have been neglected by local and regional communities. However, with the help of Trade Aid, a charitable trust which runs the hotel, considerable work has been done to curb this trend and important historical sites including The Old Boma have been restored using traditional techniques. Trade Aid is also working towards creating a certified conservation zone to protect Mikindani’s culture and traditions for future generations.

The Old Boma Hotel is now not only a first class hotel but also a vocational training institute providing free hospitality education to selected students from the local community.

Our students are taught a variety of subjects including English, core skills and specialist hospitality training. Once students have graduated from our training programme we also assist with further education, placements and employment opportunities.