Goodbye to Kenya
This is the fifth book in the Matata series and is a very different book from 
the earlier titles. Gone is the optimism and hope that characterised these. We 
share instead the determination of Lando to build, with his English wife 
Eleanor, a professional architectural and planning practice in Kenya. Initially 
in the post – independence boom that Nairobi enjoyed, as it competed to become 
one of Africa’s dominant cities, major commissions were secured. But with these 
came demands from the political elite for favours and donations. Lando was 
having none of this but consequently narrowly escaped instant deportation.
Deciding that the only way to secure any prospect of a stable future for the 
firm. Lando takes a local partner. He too must navigate the muddy waters of 
local politics, made worse by a series of political assassinations. Reluctantly 
Lando decides that for the future sake of his family emigration to Canada, 
where his younger brother is already settled, is now an urgent priority. The 
book ends with the family on the plane bound for their new country.
This is a brave book that exposes the racism and corruption that Lando faces 
building up his business. It is a fascinating story, but it has a bigger 
message. The huge loss to a developing nation of the skills and talent of a 
minority people loyal to the country but who can see no future for them there. 
It is a global lesson and Braz Menezes has chartered in a delightful way the 
huge contribution that the Goan diaspora – one of the least known– has made to 
the world.
 

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