Tourists and international delegates attending the 11th Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa were given a rare opportunity to experience the rich maritime heritage of Kenya’s coast during a cultural and water sports exhibition held alongside the global gathering.
The event brought together ministers responsible for the Blue Economy from various countries, members of the diplomatic corps, civil society representatives and visitors from across the world, who witnessed traditional dhow races and swimming competitions along Mombasa’s coastline.
The activities coincided with local celebrations marking the beginning of the Islamic New Year, offering guests an insight into how coastal communities blend cultural traditions with their longstanding relationship with the ocean.
Hundreds of residents lined the shore to cheer on competitors as colourful dhows sailed across the waters, while swimmers competed in races that have long been part of the region’s coastal sporting traditions.
For many visitors, the exhibition offered a different perspective on the ocean beyond the policy discussions at the conference.
“I have attended several international conferences, but this is the first time I have seen how closely culture and the sea are connected in people’s daily lives. The dhow race was particularly impressive because it showed a tradition that has been preserved for generations,” said Maria Gonzalez, a tourist.
Ahmed Al-Mansoori, a visitor, said the event highlighted the importance of protecting oceans while preserving cultural heritage.
“When people talk about the Blue Economy, they often focus on trade and resources. What I saw here is that the ocean is also part of people’s identity and history,” he said.
Sophie Martin said the celebrations gave visitors a deeper appreciation of Mombasa beyond its beaches.
“Many people visit coastal destinations for leisure, but today we were able to see how communities have lived with and depended on the ocean for centuries. It was both educational and entertaining,” she said.
David Thompson described the event as one of the highlights of his stay in Kenya.
“The energy along the waterfront was remarkable. Seeing local people celebrate their culture while welcoming visitors from around the world created a unique atmosphere,” he said.
He said the showcase demonstrated the importance of protecting cultural traditions alongside marine ecosystems.
“The conference discussions are important, but events like this help people understand what is at stake. Protecting the ocean also means protecting the communities and traditions connected to it,” he said.
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir said the cultural showcase was intended to introduce international delegates to the region’s maritime heritage and traditions.
“Alongside Cabinet Secretary Ali Hassan Joho, I was delighted to host ministers responsible for the Blue Economy from across the world, members of the diplomatic corps and civil society leaders at a vibrant cultural and water sports expo in Mombasa,” he said.“The event showcased the rich heritage of our coastal communities through a thrilling swimming competition and an exciting dhow race, celebrating the deep connection between our people, our culture and the ocean that sustains us.”He added that hosting the 11th Our Ocean Conference offered Mombasa an opportunity to showcase its cultural identity to a global audience.“As we host the 11th Our Ocean Conference, we are proud to share the spirit, beauty and maritime traditions of Mombasa with the world,” the governor said.
Residents described the exhibition as an opportunity to showcase the cultural richness of the coast to an international audience.
Traditional dhows have for centuries been central to trade, fishing and transportation along the East African coastline, while swimming competitions remain a popular feature of community celebrations in many coastal towns.
The cultural showcase came as delegates at the 11th Our Ocean Conference discussed issues including marine conservation, sustainable fisheries, climate change and the protection of ocean ecosystems.
Beyond the conference halls, the exhibition offered visiting delegates and tourists a chance to witness the human dimension of the Blue Economy, demonstrating how coastal communities continue to depend on marine resources not only for their livelihoods but also for the preservation of their traditions and way of life.