Over 3,000 visitors expected as Mombasa gears to host 'World Tourism Week'
The four-day event, running from September 25-28, will precede the official United Nations World Tourism Day commemorations on September 27, which will be marked jointly in Mombasa and Kwale counties.
Mombasa is bracing itself for an influx of more than 3,000 guests from across Kenya and beyond as the coastal hub prepares to host this year’s World Tourism Week, a celebration packed with festivals, cultural showcases, and entertainment.
The four-day event, running from September 25-28, will precede the official United Nations World Tourism Day commemorations on September 27, which will be marked jointly in Mombasa and Kwale counties.
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Dubbed 'Tourism and Sustainable Transformation', the 2025 edition aims to underline tourism’s potential in shaping positive economic and social change.
According to the Mombasa Tourism Council (MTC), activities will kick off on September 25, with visitors arriving at Moi International Airport and via the Madaraka Express railway promised a warm coastal reception.
One of the highlights is the FishMish Festival, scheduled for September 26 at Mama Ngina Waterfront. The name, an amalgamation of 'fish' and 'mishkaki', reflects Mombasa’s celebrated food culture.
“Mishkaki traces its origins back to Mombasa. This festival is about reconnecting with our culinary roots,” explained MTC Chairperson, Sam Ikwaye.
The official World Tourism Day parade on September 27 will begin at the iconic elephant tusks along Moi Avenue and conclude at Mama Ngina Waterfront. The day will also see tree planting at Uhuru Garden.
The festivities will culminate on September 28, with a motor show and tuk-tuk race, events that proved popular during last year’s inaugural edition. Thirty tuk-tuk operators have already undergone training in tour guiding, a move organisers say has boosted their livelihoods.
The competition’s four winners will receive return flights to Dubai courtesy of Fly Dubai, while Travellers Beach Hotel will host the overall champion for a three-night stay.
“The tuk-tuk race is fast becoming our signature attraction, and we intend to position it as one of Mombasa’s flagship tourism events,” Ikwaye added.
Airlines and hotels are also offering discounts during the week, with officials assuring both domestic and international travellers of enhanced safety measures at key tourist sites.
Mombasa County Executive for Trade and Tourism, Mohamed Osman, urged residents to join the celebrations in large numbers.
He noted that close cooperation between stakeholders has helped revitalise the sector, leading to a steady increase in visitor numbers.
“Governor Abdulswamad has established a dedicated tourism unit within the inspectorate to safeguard tourists and protect our attractions,” Osman said.
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