Sir Richard Branson Participates in Traditional Maasai Ceremony for the Launch of Kenyan Safari Camp

Sir Richard Branson Participates inSir Richard Branson Participates in Traditional Maasai Ceremony for the Launch of Kenyan Safari Camp PR Newswire LONDON, October 28, 2013 Sir Richard Branson celebrates the opening of Mahali Mzuri, the latest addition to the Virgin Limited Edition portfolio, by participating in a traditional Maasai ceremony. The ceremony, which comes 6 years after Richard originally became a recognised tribal Maasai Elder in 2007, took place on the plains near Mahali Mzuri and began with opening prayers. Along with eight elders, Richard blessed Mahali Mzuri with prayers, honey and a little beer! A ceremonial fire using traditional fire sticks and olive branches was placed onto the fire to produce the smoke, which drifted through the camp as a sign of blessing. This was followed by the local Maasai community singing and dancing around the fire before leading the crowd in a march back up to the plains where they enjoyed a blessing feast. Sir Richard Branson commented: "It was an honour and so much fun to participate in the ceremony. It's a fantastic way to celebrate the official opening of Mahali Mzuri and I'm thrilled that so many of the local community have made it here today to observe and take part in what was a beautifully traditional and fitting way of launching our new safari camp." "I've recently been pleased to add my voice to supporters of the tourism industry in Kenya and we see this opening as a symbol of our confidence in its long term future.