Israel Somen

Israel "Issy" Somen, was a one time Mayor of Nairobi[1][2][3] and later, Israel's Honorary Consul to Kenya.[4]

Biography

Somen's family emigrated to Kenya in the early part of the twentieth century was among those who established successful businesses in the country. Somen, who was also a one time president of the Board of Kenya Jews, lived in Kenya over 30 years. His wife Sophie was born in Kenya. He was elected mayor of Nairobi in 1955 together with deputy mayor was Dobbs Johnson.

Somen played a role in establishing amicable relations between Kenya and Israel. He returned to Israel from Kenya, though some of his family and relations still live in Kenya.

References

  1. ^ The Virtual Jewish History Tour: Kenya
  2. ^ DR. A.C. L. de SOUSA THE FOUNDER OF THE "GOAN OVERSEAS ASSOCIATION" AND A GREAT PROTAGONIST OF GOAN EDUCATION IN EAST AFRICA
  3. ^ Nicholls, Christine Stephanie (2005). Red strangers: the white tribe of Kenya. Timewell Press. p. 245. ISBN 9781857252064. http://books.google.com/books?id=7XQdt37BJ6cC. Retrieved 19 June 2011. 
  4. ^ Goldstein, Israel (1984). My world as a Jew: the memoirs of Israel Goldstein. 2. Associated University Presses. p. 57. ISBN 9780845347805. http://books.google.com/books?id=mCU0XsXUDOYC. Retrieved 19 June 2011.