This archive report was first published on 1 July 2020.
Published on July 1, 2020, the National Museums of Kenya (NMK) is constructing a Sh. 60 million sea wall to protect the historic Vasco da Gama Pillar in Malindi from coastal erosion.
The Vasco da Gama Pillar, built by the Portuguese in 1498, is a cross of Lisbon limestone with the court of arms of Portugal. It is located on the southern part of Malindi town and is the oldest remaining European monument in tropical Africa.
However, strong tidal waves caused by rising sea levels have put the iconic architectural treasure at great risk of collapse. The coral foundation of the historic landmark is being threatened by strong tidal waves due to rising sea levels.
Dr. Mzalendo Kibunjia, the NMK Director General, said that heritage sites and landmarks like the Vasco da Gama Pillar and the Jumba La Mtwana in Mtwapa Township are at risk of being lost to the sea due to coastal erosion.
Dr. Kibunjia noted that many historical and marine cultural sites along the shoreline, enlisted by UNESCO for their outstanding universal value, face a perilous and uncertain future due to rising sea levels.
He called for more resources to shield the heritage properties from falling into permanent ruin, saying, "Climate change is here with us and affecting world heritage and iconic sites across the world."
Construction site manager Chihanga Donda said the seawall is designed to withstand the full force of the ocean's waves in order to protect the endangered memorial pillar.
The construction of the seawall began last month and is expected to be completed within the stipulated time frame.
