Archives August 2026

Residents and visitors at Kiwayu were treated to an exciting display of traditional skill as participants battled it out in the Bao la Kete competition during the Kiwayu Cultural Festival.

The popular traditional game provided entertainment while celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the coastal community.

The competition was part of the two-day festival held on 28th and 29th August 2026, which also featured sporting and cultural activities. Governor Issa Timamy attended the festival accompanied by Deputy Governor Dr. Mbarak Bahjaj, ‎MP for Matuga Constituency, Hon. Kassim Tandaza, CECMs and Chief Officers, as the County Government and community showcased Kiwayu’s cultural and tourism potential.

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For more information contact communication office at communication@lamu.go.ke

The rich culinary heritage of Kiwayu came alive during a lively cooking competition held as part of the Kiwayu Cultural Festival.

Participants showcased traditional cooking skills and local flavours, giving residents and visitors an opportunity to experience the unique food culture of the island. The competition formed part of a vibrant two-day festival that brought together cultural activities, sports and community celebrations on 28th and 29th August 2026.

Governor Issa Timamy graced the festival accompanied by Deputy Governor Dr. Mbarak Bahjaj, ‎MP for Matuga Constituency, Hon. Kassim Tandaza, CECMs and Chief Officers, reaffirming the County Government’s commitment to promoting culture, tourism and local economic opportunities.

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For more information contact communication office at communication@lamu.go.ke

Excitement swept through Kiwayu as 14 donkeys lined up for a thrilling race during the Kiwayu Cultural Festival.

The competition attracted enthusiastic spectators and added a unique sporting experience to the celebrations. The winner walked away with KSh30,000, while the second and third placed competitors received KSh20,000 and KSh15,000 respectively.

Participants finishing between fourth and tenth positions were each awarded KSh2,000. Governor Issa Timamy attended the festival accompanied by Deputy Governor Dr. Mbarak Bahjaj, ‎MP for Matuga Constituency, Hon. Kassim Tandaza, CECMs and Chief Officers.

The race demonstrated how traditional activities can bring communities together while creating memorable experiences for visitors.

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For more information contact communication office at communication@lamu.go.ke

The fishing competition at the Kiwayu Cultural Festival celebrated the island’s strong connection with the ocean and the livelihoods of its fishing community.

Local fishermen showcased their skills in an activity that reflected the importance of marine resources to the people of Kiwayu. The festival also featured a successful fish auction, creating an additional opportunity for fishermen to earn income from their catch. Held on 28th and 29th August 2026, the event combined culture, sport, tourism and commerce.

Governor Issa Timamy attended alongside Deputy Governor Dr. Mbarak Bahjaj, ‎MP for Matuga Constituency, Hon. Kassim Tandaza, CECMs and Chief Officers.

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For more information contact communication office at communication@lamu.go.ke

The sandy shores of Kiwayu provided an energetic backdrop for a lively beach football competition during the Kiwayu Cultural Festival.

Players displayed their talent and competitive spirit as residents and visitors gathered to enjoy the action. The activity added a sporting dimension to the two-day festival, which celebrated the island’s cultural heritage while promoting Kiwayu as an attractive tourism destination.

The event also created an opportunity for the community to interact, enjoy entertainment and participate in activities beyond the traditional competitions.

Governor Issa Timamy attended the festival accompanied by Deputy Governor Dr. Mbarak Bahjaj, ‎MP for Matuga Constituency, Hon. Kassim Tandaza, CECMs and Chief Officers.

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For more information contact communication office at communication@lamu.go.ke

Kiwayu’s waters became a centre of excitement as swimmers took part in a competitive swimming event during the Kiwayu Cultural Festival.

The activity reflected the island’s strong maritime identity while giving participants an opportunity to demonstrate their abilities in the water. The swimming competition was among several activities that made the two-day festival a celebration of sport, culture and community. Held on 28th and 29th August 2026, the festival also helped draw attention to Kiwayu’s tourism potential and local economy.

Governor Issa Timamy graced the event accompanied by Deputy Governor Dr. Mbarak Bahjaj, ‎MP for Matuga Constituency, Hon. Kassim Tandaza, CECMs and Chief Officers.

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For more information contact communication office at communication@lamu.go.ke

The timeless tradition of dhow sailing took centre stage during the Kiwayu Governor’s Dhow Race, providing a spectacular celebration of Lamu’s rich maritime heritage.

The race formed part of the two-day Kiwayu Cultural Festival held on 28th and 29th August 2026, attracting attention to the island and its tourism potential.

Beyond entertainment, the event contributed to the local economy by bringing visitors and creating opportunities for businesses and residents.

Governor Issa Timamy attended the festival accompanied by Deputy Governor Dr. Mbarak Bahjaj, ‎MP for Matuga Constituency, Hon. Kassim Tandaza, CECMs and Chief Officers, as the County Government and Kiwayu community celebrated their shared coastal heritage.

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For more information contact communication office at communication@lamu.go.ke

The Kiwayu Cultural Festival concluded on a high note with participants across various competitions recognized and rewarded for their efforts.

The prize-giving ceremony capped two days of cultural, sporting and community activities held on 28th and 29th August 2026. Cash prizes were awarded to successful competitors, while the festival’s fish auction also generated income for local fishermen.

Organized by the Lamu County Government in collaboration with the Kiwayu community, the festival received support from Pembe Flour Mill, Captain Andy’s and NRT.

Governor Issa Timamy attended the ceremony accompanied by Deputy Governor Dr. Mbarak Bahjaj, MP for Matuga Constituency, Hon. Kassim Tandaza, CECMs and Chief Officers.

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For more information contact communication office at communication@lamu.go.ke

Lamu Governor Issa Timamy has hosted senior officials from WWF Kenya and The Nature Conservancy (TNC) in a high level engagement aimed at strengthening partnerships in conservation and sustainable development in Lamu County.

The WWF Kenya delegation was led by Chief Executive Officer Jackson Kiplagat, while The Nature Conservancy team was led by Country Director Ruth Masha.

The discussions focused on enhancing collaboration between the county government and conservation partners in protecting Lamu’s rich natural resources, promoting sustainable development and ensuring local communities benefit from conservation initiatives.

The delegation also visited the Eco Tourism Facility at Shaka La Siyu on Amu Island, which was funded by WWF Kenya for the Lamu Community Forest Association (LAMACOFA).

Governor Timamy reaffirmed the County Government of Lamu’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with conservation organisations and development partners to safeguard the county’s ecosystems while supporting economic opportunities for its communities.

The engagement was attended by CECM for Climate Change, ICT, E Government and Citizen Participation Aisha Shariff,CECM for Blue Economy, Fisheries and Cooperative Sabrina Mkare, CECM for Finance, Budget and Economic Planning Mohamed Bwana, Chief of Staff Abdulnassir Issa, among other county government officials.

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For more information, contact the Communications Office at communication@lamu.go.ke