Lamu: The 22nd Edition of the Lamu Cultural Festival, running from Thursday, 28th to Monday, 2nd 2024, is set to draw over 20,000 domestic and international tourists. Lamu Governor Issa Timamy noted that the County Government has collaborated with stakeholders, particularly from the tourism and hospitality sector, to ensure the event’s success.
According to Kenya News Agency, Governor Timamy emphasized the festival’s growth over the years, attracting both local and foreign tourists. Dignitaries from Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Mozambique, as well as Governors from Narok and Garissa, are in attendance. The festival aims to highlight Swahili cultural heritage through traditional dances, handicrafts, poetry, and activities like donkey and dhow races and henna painting.
Tourism CEC In-Charge of Tourism Aisha Miraj highlighted an increase in sponsorship for the festival, with a budget estimated at Sh 29 million to support the various events. Sponsored events include dhow and donkey races, a fishing competition, and
the Governor’s cup. Miraj noted the festival as the highlight of Lamu’s tourism calendar, coinciding with the November and December holiday season.
Fridah Njeri, Lamu Tourism Association Chairman, reported full occupancy in hotels and flights to Lamu, attributing this to the festival’s draw. She mentioned the festival’s role in boosting local businesses due to the influx of tourists. The event has successfully attracted a significant number of both domestic and international tourists, enhancing Lamu’s appeal as a tourist destination.
Kenya Tourism Board Vice Chairperson, Alphina Bualei, reiterated the Ministry of Tourism’s commitment to promoting Lamu as a prime tourism destination. Lamu County Commissioner Wesley Koech assured enhanced security on Lamu Island and its roads to ensure a smooth festival experience. This security measure is expected to support increased tourism in Lamu beyond the festival period.
