All set for East Africa Ocean festivals in Mombasa

Preparations are underway for the inaugural East Africa Ocean Festival, set to take place in Mombasa County from October 18 to 20, 2024. This premier three-day event will celebrate the ocean’s allure and highlight the rich maritime history of Mombasa and the broader East African region.

Hamisi Mwaguya, co-founder of the festival and Chairman of the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA), emphasized that the event presents an excellent opportunity for both local and international tourists to recognize the ocean’s significant impact on the development of East African coastal cities. “The ocean has been crucial in the trade and transport that have revitalized cities such as Mombasa, Lamu, and Dar es Salaam,” Mwaguya stated.

The festival aims to honor the ocean’s historical and cultural significance while exploring new ways to leverage its potential for economic growth. Mwaguya highlighted that the event will showcase the ocean’s capacity to drive business, tourism, transport, and leisure activities. He encouraged neighboring East African countries to participate and explore investment opportunities showcased at the festival.

Hosting the event in Mombasa is expected to enhance the city’s global profile as a top tourist destination in East Africa. Mwaguya outlined a diverse range of activities scheduled for the festival, designed to both entertain and educate attendees. These activities include swimming competitions, kayak races, canoeing, traditional dhow races, Jet-Ski contests, mini live concerts, a boat show and parade, and sailing events.

In addition to the main attractions, several side events will enrich the festival experience. These include beach cleanups, mangrove restoration projects, underwater photography exhibitions, charity fishing tournaments, Swahili art displays, historical dance performances, and culinary experiences featuring local flavors. The primary events will be held at the Tudor, Junda, and Kibarani creeks.

Mwaguya expressed the intention to make the East Africa Ocean Festival an annual event, which he believes will help position Mombasa as a strategic business hub on the world stage. He noted that the festival is supported by various partners, including Magical Kenya, the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA), Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), Kenya Airways Authority (KAA), the Kenya Navy, Kenya Coast Guard, and the Mombasa County Government.

Zanzibar, Tanzania, has already confirmed its participation, adding an international dimension to the festival. Mwaguya urged Kenyans to support the event by purchasing tickets, available at TEAOF.ORG for Sh500 per day or Sh1000 for a three-day pass. He also encouraged locals to contribute by participating in waterfront cleanups and supporting efforts to manage plastic waste and restore mangroves.

Osman Mohammed, the County Executive Committee Member for Trade and Tourism in Mombasa, affirmed the county government’s commitment to integrating the festival into its tourism calendar. Mohammed highlighted the festival’s potential to boost tourism in Mombasa and noted the formation of the Mombasa Tourism Council, which is working diligently to promote the city as a premier tourism destination on the East African coast.

The Kenya Coast Guard Services assured the public that comprehensive security and rescue services will be provided in collaboration with KMA. “We will have numerous search and rescue boats stationed at strategic locations, and we have also arranged accommodations for our tourists. Security will be thoroughly managed,” assured Susan Mtakai from the Search and Rescue and Diving Unit.

The East Africa Ocean Festival promises to be a landmark event, celebrating the maritime heritage of the region while fostering economic and cultural exchanges. As Mombasa prepares to host this exciting festival, the city anticipates a significant boost to its tourism sector and international recognition.