The Hungarian Architect Who Helped Shape Nairobi

When walking through the streets of Nairobi, few realize that some of the city’s most iconic landmarks were designed by a Hungarian architect. György Vámos, born in Budapest in 1910, left an indelible mark on Kenya’s capital, blending European training with African modernity. Vámos studied architecture in Vienna before World War II disrupted his path. Serving in the British Army, he was interned in Uganda as a foreign national. That unexpected chapter became transformative: Africa captured his imagination, and after the war he chose not to return to Europe. Instead, he settled in Nairobi, where he co-founded an architectural practice with Heini Lustmann. His iconic works are among others Nairobi Central Post Office (Tel Posta Towers) – a central hub of communication and commerce. Our National Pride, Jomo Kenyatta Mausoleum – the resting place of Kenya’s first president, now a national memorial.