This archive report was first published on 20 October 2019.
On Sunday, October 20, 2019, thousands of Kenyans flocked to the refurbished Mama Ngina Waterfront in Mombasa to celebrate Mashujaa Day.
Security personnel were stationed at strategic areas around the park, and the Likoni main gate was opened at 5am to accommodate the large crowds.
Due to the high turnout, all public vehicles were barred from accessing the venue, with only those holding special passes granted entry.
Leaders arriving for the celebrations received a warm welcome from the enthusiastic crowd.
Earlier in the day, police officers were deployed at Tononoka grounds to prevent a parallel function planned by traders affected by the government's directive to haul cargo via the standard gauge railway line from the Mombasa port to Nairobi.
The traders, who argue that the directive has negatively impacted the trucking business, were seeking to push the government to rescind its decision.
The Mashujaa Day celebrations in Mombasa marked a historic occasion, as it was the first time since independence that Kenyans witnessed a military ocean parade conducted by the Kenya Navy.
Mombasa is the sixth county to host national celebrations, and during the event, more than 200 heroes were feted.
The revamped recreational park, which was rehabilitated at a cost of Sh460 million, now features two gateways, paved pathways, lush gardens, and restaurants that have replaced the old kiosks.
