Serving the Public


With the influx of tourists to Old Town Harambe, quite a few businesses and other services have sprung up to help serve the needs of all those people. Some of these are provided by the local government, while others have been established by individual entrepreneurs.

In the late '90s, the Harambe Ministry of Public Works converted the old Port Authority building to public restroom facilities, moving the Port Authority offices to a modern complex on Sokoni Road in New Town.


The National Telephone Authority provides telecommunications services in town for locals and visitors alike:


Have a car that needs some work? Stop by Juma Brothers Parts and Maintenance, and they can help you out:


Of course, if you're hungry, there are plenty of options ranging from fruit and vegetable stands to the Kusafiri Bakery and Tusker House Restaurant. Those who prefer liquid refreshment can stop in at Dawa Bar. "Dawa" is a Swahili word that means "medicine," but it's also a slang term for a strong alcoholic drink. The bar was established by an enterprising local who dubbed himself Dr. Dawa, and it has become a popular spot not just for tourists, but for many of the safari guides working for the various touring companies in town. They enjoy gathering at Dr. Dawa's bar each evening after the day's trips to watch the sun set and enjoy a drink with friends.


At one time, a day spent on the beach was a popular diversion. In fact, some of the public showers still remain in the area:


The beach has long since been closed, though, due to dangerous currents in the river as it sweeps out to the ocean. Instead, the beach has mostly become a base for fishermen and farmers selling and trading up and down the coast.

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