Kenya hosted the inaugural Mediation, Conciliation & Traditional Justice Convention (PACT 1), a three-day gathering of mediators, peacebuilders, judicial officers, traditional leaders, academics and policy-makers from across Africa. The event closed with an excursion to PEC Nature Park, a restored outdoor site about 38 kilometres from Nairobi.
Traditional royalty at the conference#
The convention included the Queen Mother of Ghana, the King and Queen of the Asande Kingdom, and a young representative of the Buganda Kingdom. Their participation pointed to Africa’s existing systems for resolving disputes, reconciling communities and restoring relationships.
Sessions featured keynote speeches, panel discussions, role-plays, ceremony, storytelling and skits.
Outdoor close at PEC Nature Park#
On the final day, participants travelled to PEC Nature Park at Corner Baridi along Magadi Road, about six kilometres past Kiserian and roughly 38 kilometres from Nairobi. The site has no phone network, which organisers framed as an invitation to disconnect.
The park is largely open space with trees, grass and rocks, with semi-permanent structures housing the reception, restaurant, bathrooms and activity area.
The park offers ziplining, high ropes, rock climbing, hiking, biking and nature trails. Its adventure package includes views towards the Maa Hills.
- Ziplining
- High ropes
- Rock climbing
- Hiking
- Biking
- Nature trails
Children’s facilities include swings, slides, tree houses and a cycling track. Visitors can also picnic, camp or book retreat stays.
One description of the setting stated:
“It feels less like arriving at a conventional recreation centre and more like stepping into a landscape that has decided to keep things simple.”
Land restoration and food#
In 2014, the 18 acres where the park now stands were described as wasteland. A restoration effort fenced the land and named it Olooseos. After one rainy season, plants, birds, butterflies and insects returned.
The park is presented as a space for adventure, learning and fun, built around connecting people with nature. It also offers a biodiversity experience focused on the environment and sustainability. The name ‘nature park’ refers to the restoration of the landscape.
Dining includes organic dishes sourced from the park’s farm, with herb-infused choma among the options.
