The dhow races, long regarded as the signature event of the Lamu Cultural Festival, continue to play a central role in showcasing the island’s maritime heritage and sustaining its traditional craft.
The race, which draws significant participation from experienced sailors and the youth, is usually held in the channels between Lamu Old Town and Shela.
This year’s showcase at the festival drew both local and visiting spectators who lined the waterfront and filled the piers to watch crews navigate the monsoon winds using skills passed down through generations.
According to the Lamu Museum, located in old town, dhows were historically the vessels that connected East Africa to the wider Indian Ocean world, and the races are seen as a living expression of that history.
Speaking at the event, vendors like Maimuna Ahmed, from Faza Youth, said a significant portion of the island’s culture is tied to the ocean, and that’s why most of the showcases expected throughout the 3-day event are maritime activities such as fishing and sailing.
Beyond it being a significant part of Lamu’s history, officials and organisers from the Lamu county government hope the event boosts business for boat crews, hoteliers, food vendors and transport operators. The Kenya Tourism Board estimates that the event will draw approximately 20,000 visitors.
Similarly, the festival is also being used as a platform to revive interest in dhow craftsmanship among the youth of Lamu.
County leaders emphasise the same goal, with Lamu Governor Issa Timamy noting that while the festival is aimed at “showcasing Swahili historic cultural heritage,” including dhow races, it is also meant to ensure these traditions remain relevant and accessible to young people through workshops, shipyard demonstrations and youth participation in racing crews.
