Joseph Kimotho Mugambi bought the land and farmhouse in 1954 from Yvonne and Paddy, after Thomas’s death. The house at that time was in the shape of an H, without the back section, which was added later by Mugambi. Mugambi constructed a steel development to the north of the house and A frame bandas to the south, you can still see the foundations. He planned to run a hotel, using the original building as a reception and restaurant. Unfortunately, the restoration work was not well done: the cedar timbers were gouged out with carvings and daubed with primary coloured paint, poorly planned and constructed extensions were attempted. The staircase and cedar paneling disappeared; partitions were erected using offcuts and at one point the roof fell in.

Mugambi, appeared to abandon the project. The house sat empty and rotting for decades, the remaining paneling, windows and doors stripped out for firewood and the fine timbers slowly rotted away. A fire in the late eighties destroyed the steel structures and further damaged the house. In December 2003, a company purchased the land and ruins in hopes to create a horticulture farm however, after clearing much of it's property’s forest and flora, this project failed and it looked as though the property and house were to be abandoned again. But, not all hope was lost…

After a few years of hard graft restoration, Leslie opened the doors to the public in January 2006. She then went on to protect the border by designing and building 10 beautiful ranch-style houses that now make up Mukima Ridge. Leslie was the motivation and inspiration behind so much of what Mukima is today. Leslie passed away in late August 2020 she was taken from us far too early, a much loved and admired lady. Her youngest daughter Anna worked close beside Leslie, they were peas in a pod with a shared love for Mukima and their project in Lamu. (www.thecabanaslamu.com). Today Anna continues to preserve her mothers legacy and grow Mukima in alignment with her passion for preserving wilderness and wellness.

Anna and her husband, Shawn have breathed new life into Mukima, curating an enchanting space in the wild. The Sanctuary has undergone a beautiful transformation unveiling a one-of-a-kind unique experience where wildlife, wellness and high-end hospitality blend seamlessly together. 

Fueled by a deep desire to empower others to live vibrantly, Anna and Shawn are launching a series of health retreats throughout the year at the Manor House. These immersive experiences are a testament to their unwavering commitment to fostering a life of optimal health and happiness to all who pass through their enchanting home.