Firi Festival gala dinner sets stage for weekend cultural celebration in Mombasa

The 6th edition of the Firi Cultural Festival officially kicked off on Friday evening with a vibrant gala dinner, setting the stage for a weekend of cultural exchange, business showcases, and community celebration.

Organised by Asmali Media Events and PR Company, under the leadership of founder Ahmed Mohamed, the festival will run from Saturday to Sunday at Mama Ngina Waterfront Park.

The dinner, held at a prominent venue in Mombasa, attracted around 150 attendees, including government officials, diplomats, business leaders, and community members, ahead of the two-day festival expected to draw over 5,000 participants.

Speaking during the dinner, Mombasa Somali Community Chairman Abdo Bahaji highlighted the festival’s role in fostering unity and cultural appreciation among communities.

"The aim of the festival is to bring people together. People from other counties come here to appreciate diverse cultures," he said. Bahaji further underscored the historic and ongoing contributions of the Somali community to Kenya's economic landscape.

Guests during the Firi Festival Gala dinner in Mombasa on December 13, 2024. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)

"Somalis have been trade partners from as far back as the days of pastoralism through Lamu to Nairobi and Mombasa. Today, they are thriving in the import, export, construction, and hospitality industries. This festival is also about showcasing growth and inspiring future initiatives, like community hospitals, to transform Kenya."

The festival has gained traction since its inception in Nairobi in 2018, and this marks the third time it has been hosted in Mombasa. Ahmed Mohamed, founder of the Firi Festival, explained the city’s strategic significance. "Mombasa is rich in culture, diversity, and tourism; it is the centre of cultural heritage. This event is about promoting coexistence and harmony between communities, while also dispelling misconceptions about Somali culture," he said.

Firi Festival founder Ahmed Mohamed explains the objectives of Firi Festival, a platform for cultural exchange, economic empowerment, and community inspiration. Ahmed, also the founder of Asmali Media Events and PR Company, spoke at the Firi Festival Gala dinner ahead of the… pic.twitter.com/Hsnd1ng8Mw

— The Eastleigh Voice (@Eastleighvoice) December 13, 2024

Mohamed also noted that the festival provides a platform for businesses to engage with the public and exhibit their products. "Saturday and Sunday at Mama Ngina Waterfront Park, from 10 am to 6 pm, will feature cultural showcases, poetry, and a business expo. Corporate companies like Safaricom and Skyward Express are supporting us. The event is free of charge, and we invite everyone to come and experience this celebration of diversity."

Mombasa County Commissioner Mahmoud Noor, who also graced the gala dinner, reassured residents and visitors of heightened security measures during the festivities. "This December has been packed with activities in Mombasa, including the EALA games and now the Firi Festival. We have ensured enough security across towns, hotels, and beaches. Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) officers and tourist police are deployed, so there is no need for concern. We want everyone to enjoy the festival and leave safely," said Noor.

The Somalia Ambassador to Kenya, Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle, praised the festival for promoting cultural and entrepreneurial synergy. "This event combines two critical elements of Somali culture – entrepreneurship and cultural exchange. It allows us to showcase Somali businesses, cuisine, and traditions while learning from other communities," he said.

Firi Cultural Festival founder Ahmed Mohamed and Somalia Ambassador to Kenya, Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle during Firi Festival Gala dinner in Mombasa on December 13, 2024. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)

Ambassador Abdulle emphasised the importance of dispelling stereotypes and fostering understanding. "There are often narratives and misconceptions surrounding the Somali community. Festivals like Firi help people appreciate our entrepreneurial spirit and our contributions to East Africa’s economy. The future belongs to the youth, and events like this empower them to understand and embrace cultural diversity while pursuing economic opportunities."

Somalia's Ambassador to Kenya, Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle during the Firi Festival Gala dinner in Mombasa on December 13, 2024. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)

The festival is expected to feature electrifying cultural performances, including Mijikenda dancers, as well as Somali poetry and cuisine. Local entrepreneurs and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will showcase their products during the business expo, creating a platform for networking and growth.

Ahmed Mohamed concluded by reaffirming the festival’s broader vision. "Our richness is in our diversity. Through events like this, we celebrate our unique cultures while building unity and harmony. Next year, we plan to take the Firi Festival to Northern counties to continue sharing this spirit across Kenya."

Guests during the Firi Festival Gala dinner in Mombasa on December 13, 2024. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)

The Firi Cultural Festival, which began in Eastleigh a renowned business hub in Nairobi has grown into a national event, attracting participants from various communities and regions. This year’s edition in Mombasa underscores the city’s reputation as a melting pot of cultures and a hub for economic activity.

With doors open to the public, organisers are optimistic that this weekend’s festival will not only celebrate culture but also inspire unity, understanding, and economic empowerment.