Abdulswamad and Mboko Champion Digo Heritage at Waterfront Festival

By Feddy Madebe

Mombasa County played host to a spectacular display of cultural heritage as the Digo community gathered at the iconic Mama Ngina Waterfront for their annual cultural festival, drawing top county leadership and dignitaries in a show of unity and celebration.

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Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir led a delegation of senior political leaders to the colourful event, which brought together residents and visitors for an immersive experience into Digo traditions, music, and dance.

The Governor was joined by Likoni Member of Parliament Hon. Mishi Mboko, veteran politician and former Cabinet Minister Hon. Chirau Ali Mwakwere, along with several Members of the County Assembly who graced the occasion.

Speaking at the festival, Governor Nassir expressed his delight at witnessing the vibrant cultural showcase, describing it as a wonderful jamboree that epitomised the county’s commitment to diversity and heritage preservation.

“Culture remains the heartbeat of our county. We will continue to support and promote such festivals as part of preserving our heritage, strengthening social cohesion, and positioning Mombasa as a leading cultural and tourism destination,” the Governor stated.

The waterfront venue came alive with traditional performances that captivated attendees, as Digo artists showcased their community’s proud identity through energetic dance routines and melodious traditional music that has been passed down through generations.

MP Mishi Mboko emphasised the significance of such cultural initiatives in maintaining the fabric of society, noting that the festival served as more than entertainment—it was a powerful tool for unity and community pride.

“These cultural celebrations are vital in preserving our heritage and strengthening the bonds within our communities. The Digo Festival reflects the rich diversity that makes Mombasa unique,” Hon. Mboko remarked.

The presence of Hon. Chirau Ali Mwakwere added historical weight to the occasion, with the former minister’s attendance symbolising continuity in leadership support for cultural preservation efforts in the coastal region.

County Assembly members from various wards also participated enthusiastically, underscoring the cross-party commitment to cultural promotion and tourism development in Mombasa.

The Digo Festival at Mama Ngina Waterfront reinforces the county government’s strategy to leverage cultural events as drivers of tourism while simultaneously ensuring that indigenous traditions remain vibrant for future generations.

Such festivals have increasingly become cornerstone events in Mombasa’s cultural calendar, attracting both local and international attention to the county’s rich tapestry of ethnic communities and their unique contributions to Kenya’s coastal heritage.