About Us
About Karakandji
Karakandji is a small boutique residence in the heart of Bangui, offering comfortable accommodation for short, medium, and long-term stays across two centrally located properties. Our rooms and apartments are fully furnished and serviced, with air-conditioning, reliable Wi-Fi, and daily housekeeping. Each space is thoughtfully arranged and decorated with locally made furniture and artwork, reflecting a close connection to Central African craftsmanship and creative practice.
Karakandji is designed for guests looking for a well-run, personal place to stay – somewhere calm, practical, and welcoming, with attentive service and a strong sense of place.
Our Team
Karakandji is cared for by a dedicated, full-time in-house team who manage all aspects of daily life at the residence. From renovations and furniture making to electrical and air-conditioning maintenance, cleaning, laundry, and the many details that shape a comfortable stay, everything is handled internally with care and professionalism.
Many members of the team have worked at Karakandji for more than ten years. Over time, this continuity has built deep trust, shared responsibility, and pride in work done well.
We place strong emphasis on training and skills development. Karakandji operates as a social enterprise, investing in people as much as in buildings. By creating stable employment and long-term expertise, we aim to support meaningful livelihoods while delivering a consistently high standard of service to our guests.
Ownership & Vision
Karakandji was founded by Charlotte Mararv, who was born in western Central Africa and grew up in the Central African Republic. Raised in an entrepreneurial family in Berberati, she developed an early understanding of the realities, resilience, and potential of life and business in the country.
Fluent in Sango, French, English, and Swedish, Charlotte has long moved between cultures and environments – from the bush to the city. After studying in Sweden and working internationally, she returned to Bangui in 2006 and has since co-founded several local businesses and organisations.
Charlotte believes that sustainable, locally rooted private enterprises play an essential role in creating dignified livelihoods and long-term economic resilience in Central Africa. Today, Karakandji is managed day to day by a fully Central African team, with Charlotte providing guidance and long-term direction.
By staying at Karakandji, guests directly support this approach – helping strengthen skills, opportunity, and locally led enterprise.
The Name: Karakandji
The name Karakandji comes from a local variety of the hibiscus flower (Hibiscus sabdariffa), known around the world as Roselle, Bissap, Sorrel, or Moussa.
In the Central African Republic, karakandji is valued for its versatility and strength. The plant is used in traditional medicine, natural fibres, and to produce a deep red drink enjoyed hot or cold. It reflects resilience, usefulness, and a close connection to place.
In Central Africa, karakandji is often used to welcome guests into a home, and it is with this same intention that the name was chosen.
A Residence With a Story
Karakandji is built on continuity, craftsmanship, and care. From our dedicated team to our locally made furnishings, every detail reflects our commitment to comfort and place.