Mombasa

Governor Nassir, MP Badi Grace Jomvu Annual Boat Racing as Kitanga Juu BMU Emerges Winners

By Feddy Madebe

Mombasa, December 20 – The Jomvu Annual Boat Racing Competition 2025 concluded in spectacular fashion at Mkupe Creek, Miritini, with Kitanga Juu Beach Management Unit (BMU) emerging as the overall winners of this year’s highly anticipated race.

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The event, which has become a cornerstone of Jomvu’s cultural calendar, drew hundreds of residents and dignitaries who witnessed an electrifying display of maritime skill, cultural vibrancy, and community spirit on the shores of the historic creek.

Kitanga Juu BMU Claims Victory

Jomvu Member of Parliament Badi Twalib congratulated Kitanga Juu BMU for their outstanding performance, praising all participating teams for their exceptional demonstration of skill, discipline, and sportsmanship throughout the competition.

“Congratulations to Kitanga Juu BMU for emerging winners of this year’s race. I commend all participating teams for an impressive display of skill, discipline, and sportsmanship,” MP Twalib stated in his address to the enthusiastic crowd.

The annual boat racing competition has grown significantly over the years, showcasing the rich maritime heritage of the coastal community and providing a platform for local Beach Management Units to display their prowess in traditional boat racing.

A Celebration of Culture and Entertainment

Beyond the thrilling boat races, the event transformed into a full-scale cultural festival featuring colourful traditional dances, live musical performances, a bustling food bazaar, and numerous activities designed for children and families.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir, who graced the occasion, expressed his delight at the community gathering. “I was delighted to attend the Jomvu Annual Boat Racing Competition at Mkupe Creek, Miritini; a truly vibrant community event that brought together sport, culture, and family fun in a remarkable way,” Governor Nassir remarked.

The Governor praised the event’s atmosphere, describing it as capturing “the true spirit of Jomvu: energetic, inclusive, and proud of its heritage.”

Local Artists Energize the Crowd

The entertainment segment of the event featured stellar performances from some of the coast’s most celebrated artists. MP Twalib gave special recognition to the talented local performers who brought energy and excitement to the celebration.

“Special appreciation goes to our talented local artists — Roggo, Mashauri WaPwani, Fazzy Hisia, Chikuku Chikuzee, Susumila Yusuf and other artists— for delivering outstanding performances that energized the event,” the MP noted.

The musical performances provided a soundtrack to the day’s festivities, with the artists delivering hits that had the crowd dancing and singing along throughout the afternoon.

Distinguished Guests Unite Community

The event attracted a significant presence of county and constituency leadership, underscoring the importance of the annual competition to the Jomvu community. Among the dignitaries in attendance were County Executive Committee member Jonathan Wephukhulu, Honourable Kibwana Swaleh Baya, Honourable Joshua Ongau Mose, community leader Mama Amina Abdallah, and several Members of the County Assembly.

Governor Nassir was joined by area MP Badi Twalib, MCAs, and hundreds of residents in witnessing what has become one of the most anticipated annual events in the coastal region.

Community Spirit on Display

The Jomvu Annual Boat Racing Competition has evolved into more than just a sporting event; it has become a powerful symbol of community cohesion, cultural preservation, and local pride. The gathering at Mkupe Creek demonstrated the strong bonds that unite the coastal community and their commitment to celebrating their maritime heritage.

MP Twalib emphasized the significance of such gatherings in his closing remarks: “The occasion brought together members of the community who came together to celebrate our culture, talent, and unity.”

As the sun set over Mkupe Creek, marking the end of another successful edition of the competition, organizers and community members alike looked forward to an even bigger celebration in 2026, continuing the tradition that has made the Jomvu Annual Boat Racing Competition a highlight of the coastal calendar.