Lake Simbi Nyaima

"For the Birds"
Located close to Kendu Bay town, Lake Simbi is a tiny Crater Lake measuring about one kilometre in radius. Both Lake Simbi and adjacent Odango sites support a substantial bird population that includes flamingos, little grebes, little egrets and Egyptian geese, making it a haven for bird watchers.

 
Overview
Key features
L. Simbi is a small alkaline crater lake of volcanic origin with no known inlet and outlet
Population:250,000 with the basin having 325 individual.
Soil: Volcanic alluvial, clay and black cotton
Vegetation: Acacia-balanties-combretum-striga weed
Birdlife: Flamingoes, little grebe, little egret, Egyptian goose
Land use: Agriculture
Due to its high alkalinity the lake is not used for drinking and has no fish.
Natural medicine as the water treats skin diseases.
Mining of salt by the locals from the lake.
Provides opportunity for recreation activities.
Personal well being and the water is used by a local church as source of blessing and it is believed to have supernatural powers.
Provide education for the local community due to the story of the lake origin
Bird watching as the lake is known for bird life.
*Storyline Overview:*
Simbi Nyaima is a rather miraculous lake found in Karachuonyo, Homa Bay county.

The lake measuring about 1 kilometer in radius has no known inlet or outlet and has since turned into a bird attraction, and is home to a wide variety of birds.

Though geologists argue that it is a volcanic lake, residents and the entire Luo community have a completely different narrative and explanation, as to them, according to stories passed down from their parents and grandparents, it was actually a punishment.

According to them, it's origin can be traced back to many years ago and according to Luo ancient stories, the entire place was a village before it sunk, hence the name 'Simbi Nyaima', the village that sunk in dholuo.

It is claimed that an old miraculous woman, the very same one involved in the story of Nyamgondo Nyombare, sought refuge in the village and when she was turned back, she destroyed it with a terrible storm that saw the entire area submerged.

She had walked into a feast at the chief's home but was denied food but one woman sympathized with her, nursed and gave her a warm bath.

The old woman advised her host to leave the village alongside all her children and belongings and the next day, the village was no more.

Villagers also believe that Simbi water is miraculous and is good for a wide range of ailments, including skin problems, with another myth indicating that its impossible to throw a stone into the lake.

The woman in question is also believed to have conducted other miracles around the lake region.