The 22nd Edition of the Lamu Cultural Festival kicked off with an exhilarating fishing competition, drawing local and international attention to the county rich maritime heritage.

The competition, which is one of the festival’s major attractions, was officially flagged off by the Governor of Lamu County last night, marking the beginning of a high-stakes event for local fishermen.

This year’s competition is divided into two categories:

Category A: Pelagic Fish (top-dwelling fish)

Category B: Demersal Fish (bottom-dwelling fish)

Fishermen from across the county are now returning with their catches, which will be weighed and evaluated for both the total weight and the largest individual fish in terms of kilos.

This exciting format ensures that both the quantity and quality of the catch are celebrated, providing a thrilling spectacle for festival-goers and participants alike.

Later today, the largest fish from each boat will be auctioned, creating a buzz around the competition as locals and visitors vie for the prized catches.

The auction is expected to be a major highlight, showcasing the community’s deep-rooted connection to fishing and the sea.

Governor of Lamu County, who flagged off the competition, expressed his excitement for the event’s continued success.

“This competition not only celebrates our fishermen’s skills and hard work but also brings together our community and visitors to witness the importance of fishing in our culture and economy,” he said.

As the festival continues, the fishing competition remains a key draw, highlighting the island’s vibrant fishing traditions, while also contributing to the broader cultural festivities of Lamu.

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