Lamu Deputy Governor Dr Mohamed Mbarak Bahjaj officially opened the Lamu Cultural Festival during an evening ceremony held at 8 pm on Thursday, marking the official start of the three-day celebration.
The event, one of the county’s most significant cultural showcases, drew residents and visitors to Mkunguni Square for the formal launch.
Throughout the day, the town had already come alive with activity as vendors and performers welcomed early arrivals. Guests were treated to traditional Lamu cuisine from local food stalls, while preliminary festival activities, including a dhow race along the channel, provided an early taste of the island’s cultural and maritime heritage ahead of the official opening.
The evening ceremony itself featured performances of traditional dances from several communities, including the Kikuyu and Pokomo, setting the tone for a multicultural programme.
In his remarks as Chief Guest, Dr Bahjaj emphasised that the Lamu Cultural Festival is not solely a celebration of Swahili traditions but a space to appreciate and welcome Kenya’s diverse cultures.
The festival will continue through Saturday, with highlights including the Governor’s Gala Dinner at the Lamu Polytechnic at 8 pm on Friday and the closing ceremony scheduled for 8 pm on Saturday.
