This archive report was first published on 12 July 2019.
The Sh460 million Mombasa waterfront project at Mama Ngina grounds is making steady progress, with the construction now 76% complete.
According to Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Najib Balala, the project will be handed over to the National Celebration Committee on August 15 to enable it to prepare for the Mashujaa Day celebrations.
On July 11, 2019, the National Celebration Committee, led by Interior and Co-ordination of National Government Principal Secretary Karanja Kibicho and Balala, toured the site to dispel fears and rumors that the project would not be ready to host the celebrations.
“We are delighted that we will host the celebrations at the new facility at the beach,” said Kibicho, who added that all coast counties would be given a chance to showcase their culture and talent.
The project, which was scheduled to be completed by the end of June, had to be redesigned to include the building of the presidential square, leading to delays.
However, Balala assured that the project cost would not be varied despite the re-designing and the delays.
He also dismissed claims that after the celebrations, Kenyans would have to pay to access the facility, saying that the project would be maintained to high standards through a Private Public Partnership (PPP).
The facility will have a 1000-seat amphitheatre, three public squares, a cultural center, five pigeon towers, and other features, including open air/al fresco restaurants and cafes, a fun park, and water sports.
