Mombasa residents unite in Iftar Walk Edition

Hundreds of residents from Mombasa on Saturday united to take part in the five-kilometre walk Iftar Edition, aimed at promoting unity among diverse religious communities.

The event symbolises solidarity, welcoming Muslims, Christians, and people of all faiths to unite in peace.

Participants strive to highlight the value of diversity and peaceful coexistence, embodying a spirit of unity that goes beyond religious differences.

“This is the second edition. Last year in March we did the first one. The endurance trek is all about showcasing how communities can live together in harmony,” said the founder of the Mombasa Walk Movement, Major (Rtd) Major Idris Abdulrahman.

The participants trekked from Mapembeni to Mama Ngina WaterFront where the Muslims break their fast and share meals with the other religious communities.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir joins Mombasa residents in taking part in the five-kilometre Iftar Walk Edition on March 16, 2024. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)

“We usually partner with other organisations. One of them that chip in during the Iftar Walk is the Machele Foundation. We meet at the starting point at exactly 4.45 pm and start the walk where after one hour and 40 minutes we break our fast together and share a meal amongst ourselves,” he said.

Upon completion of the walk, the residents receive packed food and a bottle of water to break their fast.

This year, the residents were joined by Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff, Mvita MP Mohamed Soud Machele, and Mombasa County Speaker Aharub Khatri among other leaders.

Jioni ya leo ilikuwa fursa nyingine kwangu kujumuika na kujivinjari na Wana-Mombasa katika maeneo ya Mapembeni kupitia barabara ya Moi Avenue, Nkrumah hadi kwenye Bustani ya Mama Ngina Waterfront.

Pamoja na Viongozi wenzangu tulishiriki kwenye Matembezi ya Mombasa Walk… pic.twitter.com/LX8rl8Goxo

— Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir (@A_S_Nassir) March 16, 2024

"Tonight was another opportunity for me to join and enjoy with the people of Mombasa in the areas of Mapembeni through Moi Avenue, Nkrumah to Mama Ngina Waterfront Garden. Together with my fellow leaders, we participated in the Mombasa Walk Movement, under the slogan 5Km Endurance Trek,” said Governor Abdulswamad.

Mombasa residents receive packed food upon completion of the five-kilometre Iftar Walk Edition on March 16, 2024. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)

Mohamed Said one of the residents said, he never misses the walks.

“I participated last year and this year too. I believe that during Ramadan we consume foods that are rich in fats and if you get a chance to do such walks go for it. For me after the walk, I usually feel relieved because aside from keeping my health in check it is also a way for relaxation,” said Mohamed.

For Aarav Lakshmi, she participates in the walk to be part of her community.

“Mombasa people are generous, I like the idea of walking together because then you get to meet so many people, share ideas and hear about their lifestyles. It really does promote a peaceful society and brings diverse communities together,” she said.

Photos of Mombasa residents trekking the five-kilometre Iftar Walk Edition from Mapembeni to Mama Ngina Water Front. All Photos Farhiya Hussein