Like many young people on the beach between Malindi and Watamu, Anthony Furaha also has a nickname: he is "Toyota" for everyone, especially Italian tourists.
But more than a beach operator, as the former frequenters of the coasts of the tourist areas of the Kenyan Indian Ocean are called today, Anthony is a "beach cleaner".
Thanks to him the beach of Jacaranda Bay is much cleaner, the activities that overlook it and the tourists themselves who are guests are becoming more aware.
"It all started a few years ago out of passion - says Toyota - I was tired of seeing "my" beach so full of plastic and waste of all kinds, brought by the sea but also by the carelessness of people. My activity has become serious and continuous thanks to the Jacaranda Beach Clean Project and the help of some friends from Italy who have supported me during their holidays in Kenya.
In particular, the Brusini dal Friuli family has supported the activity of Anthony who, compatibly with his work as a safari guide and organizer, travels for miles and miles armed with bags of jute to fill. And they are quintals every time.
An example to follow and that other locals are already imitating, also because in Watamu there are those who are willing to buy plastic to recycle it, so this activity can also become profitable. Sensitive and intelligent hoteliers such as Daniele Tiritò from Jacaranda Beach Resort have helped him and donated recycling bins to the beach.
In the meantime, Anthony goes ahead and involves everyone who comes within his grasp. So you do, congratulations "beach cleaner"!