This archive report was first published on 9 November 2019.
On November 9, 2019, a civil society movement under the banner 'Okoa Mombasa Coalition' submitted a petition to the Mombasa County Assembly, requesting the renaming of the revamped Sh460 million Mama Ngina Waterfront Park.
The coalition argues that the name 'Mama Ngina' does not reflect the historical and cultural heritage of Mombasa, as it is not an indigenous name. They propose renaming the park after Coast heroine, Mekatilili Wa Menza, or Mzimli Waterfront park – as was initially called.
The petitioners believe that involving locals in the name-change process will be exercising local participation for local resources, a critical mission for the movement.
However, the coalition's proposal has been met with controversy, with some quarters considering the name 'Mama Ngina' offensive.
Interestingly, a Mombasa court on Monday, November 4, 2019, barred a newly formed board from taking over the management of the Mama Ngina Waterfront from the Mombasa County government, citing that the board was illegally set up.
