MARASA* AFRICA TRANSFORMING HISTORIC KENYAN PROPERTIES

NAIROBI, Kenya (12/2012) Madhvani Group of Companies, a family-owned enterprise at the forefront of industrial development and business in East Africa and one of the largest diversified private-sector employers there, has set its sights on the hospitality industry, with the aim of becoming the leading factor in East African tourism. To that end, Marasa has purchased three safari lodges in Uganda, which it has totally refurbished, and three safari lodges in Kenya, which are now undergoing complete refurbishment. All six properties have been consolidated under Marasa Holdings. The three Kenyan properties are Aberdare Country Club, the Ark and Mara Leisure Camp. According to Roni Madhvani, Managing Director, As we grow, we expect Marasa will become one of the largest providers of high quality, comfortable, charming safari lodges in East Africa. Marasa chose properties in locations of outstanding natural beauty. The refurbishments are being undertaken in stages, so as not to disturb guests in any way. Expected date of completion for all three lodges is March 2012 in time for the next Safari Season. Following pages, The Ark, The Aberdare Country Club and Mara Leisure Camp

 The Ark, Aberdare National Park

The watering hole at the Ark, the central feature of the property, was de-silted and expanded, and already the animal population has started to return. Further extending the swampy area around the hole to attract more animals is being explored. Once the surrounding vegetation grows back, the Ark will likely draw a more sizeable and varied wildlife population and more visitors. To heighten the pleasure of viewing the animals, five observation posts are being refurbished or installed Below is a photo of a mocked-up room sans final interior details. Each room has been outfitted with new furniture, wall paint and carpeting. Each room has a new bathroom, and each floor of rooms has a unique design theme for its soft furnishings. Rooms have been sound-proofed and are now virtually silent. Refurbishment of the Arks common areas and kitchen is planned for early in the New Year. Reception, dining rooms, corridors, and common areas will be carpeted. Walls in common areas will be sanded for a matte effect. A porch is being constructed where guests will be welcomed, served a drink, and given historical background on the property before they walk over the bridge to the Ark.

Out with the old Ark

In with the new Ark

Aberdare Country Club, Aberdare National Park Much of the renovation work that has been carried out to date at the Aberdare Country Club has also involved staff housing and the kitchens. Though the color palate has not yet been finalized, see photo below of a mocked-up guest room with fireplace. While some of the existing furniture such as beds and chairs will remain, all soft furnishings and decorative works will be new. Still, the goal is to maintain the heritage of the property with its English country club look and its decadent 1930s Colonial high life feel. The bathrooms are undergoing complete renovation using high-standard, natural materials The common areas to be refurbished include the bar, reception area, swimming pool, conference room as well as the construction of a new Health Club, gym and yoga area. The property will be closed for several weeks beginning early in the New Year to undertake refurbishment of the common areas. A brand new VIP suite complete with self-contained kitchen is under construction and the space can be converted into two kitchens when necessary. Golf carts will be introduced to ease transportation for guests staying in the elevated cottages. For guests enjoyment, the riding stables are being renovated (and horses brought in), the nine-hole golf course brought up to standard, and the game sanctuary is being stocked with a greater variety of wildlife. The close proximity of the Aberdare Country Club to Nairobi makes it a perfect springboard for the international travelers Kenya safari experience. The Club will be well-suited to host corporate clients eager to find activities in an environment that is away from the hustle of the city, yet so close to Nairobi.

Out with the old Aberdare Country Club In with the new Aberdare Country Club

Mara Leisure Camp, Masai Mara National Reserve The tents at the property have been refurbished using some of the existing hard furnishings, to give a fresher safari style look and feel. Additionally, four new luxury tents are being constructed to offer guests a wider choice. The civil works and renovation at the entrance, reception and dining area is under way, and some of the new furniture has arrived on site. The dining area is being extended and an outdoor seating area is being built to offer guests an opportunity to dine under the African sky. A new bar area is being created that will be decorated in a rustic safari style. Work on the new bridge across the Talek River has begun and is expected to be completed within a couple of weeks. A new viewing deck with a service bar will be constructed and will afford a panoramic view of the Masai Mara National Park. Stone pathways will be reconstructed and widened. Gardens will be landscaped with plants serving to screen off tents for more privacy. Renovations at this property include modernizing and building new staff accommodation and welfare facilities, a new kitchen and associated storage facilities.

Out with the old Mara Leisure Camp In with the new Mara Leisure Camp *Marasa is a member of the Madhvani Group of Companies, one of the largest private-sector groups in East Africa, employing more than 10,000 people. Starting in Uganda in 1914, the Group has developed into a widely diversified conglomerate with a geographical spread into various African countries, the Middle East and India. As the largest private sector investor in industry in Uganda, the Group has an outstanding track record in turning-around dormant companies, and has achieved a market leadership position in most of the sectors in which it operates, including tourism, sugar, agriculture, floriculture, insurance, construction, and more. With a long-established presence and core values of integrity and long-term commitment, the Madhvani Group has a vision of continuing growth in this region. For more information visit www.marasa.com