World Tourism Day Weeklong Celebrations Complete in Mombasa
county trade, tourism and culture executive committee member (CECM) Mohamed Osman. (Photo By Harrison Mbungu)
By Mbungu Harrison
Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com
Mombasa County is set as preparations for the 2025 United Nations World Tourism Day (WTD) celebrations are now complete.
The vibrant coastal Port City will host the national celebrations on Friday, September 27, 2025 with a packed five-day program featuring a variety of cultural, sporting, and tourism-centered activities aimed at promoting Kenya as a top global tourist destination.
Speaking during a press briefing today (September 23, 2025), county trade, tourism and culture executive committee member (CECM) Mohamed Osman said that the county was ready to welcome thousands of local and international visitors to mark the occasion.
According to him activities will officially kick off on Wednesday (September 25) and run through to the climax of the event over the weekend.
“This year, we have put together a rich and inclusive calendar of activities to mark World Tourism Day (WTD). The theme is centered on creating memorable experiences for both local communities and visiting tourists,” he said.
Kenya is making aggressive moves to position itself as a leading tourism destination in Africa.
He disclosed that the national government is targeting 5 million international tourists this year to double what it received last year.
“In order to achieve this ambitious target, we are focusing on experience-based tourism. That’s why Mombasa is taking the lead with this celebration—to give visitors a taste of our rich culture, cuisine, and warm hospitality.”
Among the key highlights of the week will be cultural heritage displays showcasing the coastal community’s diverse traditions and Swahili food exhibitions featuring local cuisines prepared by small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Others are sports competitions including beach soccer, tuk-tuk rally and drift car show expected to draw large crowds of motorsport enthusiasts.
A welcome reception at the Moi International Airport and SGR terminus where arriving tourists will be greeted with traditional music, dance, and complimentary merchandise.
“Every day will offer something different—from cultural exhibitions to sports, food fairs, and music.”
The county government is also supporting local tourism entrepreneurs, giving them a platform to showcase their products and services to a wider audience.
“We’ve created a conducive environment for SMEs and cultural tourism to thrive.This is not just about entertainment; it’s also about economic empowerment.
Many small businesses will benefit from the influx of tourists and the exposure that comes with such a high-profile event.”
The celebrations will culminate in a grand event on Friday, September 27 at Mama Ngina Waterfront Park, a scenic and historic public space overlooking the Indian Ocean.
The event will be graced by tourism and wildlife cabinet secretary Rebecca Miano who will officiate the national celebration.
The CECM encouraged local residents and visitors from across the country to participate in the festivities and take pride in what the region has to offer.
“We are calling on everyone to come out in large numbers. Bring your families and friends. Whether you’re into food, culture, or adventure, there will be something for you.Let’s showcase the beauty of Mombasa and support our tourism industry.”
Tourism remains one of the key economic pillars for Mombasa and Kenya at large. Events like WTD not only promote the country internationally but also provide a direct boost to the local economy.
Local vendors, tour guides, hotel owners, artists, and performers are expected to benefit significantly from the influx of guests and the heightened media attention.
As the world marks WTD under the theme of “Tourism and Inclusive Growth”, Mombasa is taking the opportunity to put its best foot forward and show the world why it remains one of Africa’s most cherished coastal destinations.
WTD is celebrated every year on September 27 to foster awareness among the international community of the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, political, and economic value.
