In this article, we cover everything you need to know about Mama Ngina Waterfront. Formerly known as “Mama Ngina Drive Park” Mama Ngina Waterfront Park is a 26-acre waterfront space recently redeveloped into a modern public recreational area with several added amenities. It became the first public landscaped waterfront in Kenya.
A refurbished Mama Ngina Drive Park was opened to the public in October 2019 after the successful implementation of the Mombasa County government’s plans in conjunction with the Ministry of Tourism of Kenya to give a new facelift to the iconic facility. The space was initially a watching bay area that rose from a small cliff facing the Likoni channel and was a place for leisure resting, walking, jogging, and riding.
The waterfront now features a palm tree-lined walkway from the Likoni Ferry Crossing in the south to the Mombasa Golf Club in the north. These two points act as both entry and exit points into the park and are marked by huge monumental gates. The waterfront also now has a natural amphitheater, a cultural center, a sun-drenched 2.1km long promenade, and a space for food vendors. With the new rail guards along the walkway, the waterfront is now family-friendly and families can now enjoy watching the ships sail through the channel into the port while enjoying the cool breeze at the Waterfront.
History Of Mama Ngina Drive
Mombasa’s rich in history that dates back to centuries ago. It is believed that the city was a battleground between the Arabs and the Portuguese with the Portuguese gaining control of the island in the 1500s. This is evident with the construction of the iconic Fort Jesus. According to information at the National Museums of Kenya, most of the fighting for the control of the island (Mvita) is believed to have taken place on the current site of the waterfront, then occupied by the Wakilindini.
The preserved 400-year-old baobab trees seen on the Likoni Crossing side of the park are believed to be grave markers for many of the Wakilindini who were killed in these wars. The community was permanently displaced from their seafront settlements. During the redevelopment of the park, archaeologists found ruins of the early settlements, which will be preserved and displayed at the Kilindini Cultural Centre. At the northern end near the Mombasa Golf Club and facing the cultural center are the pigeon towers.
The towers too are typical Swahili architecture of a wall with decorative air vents to allow the wind to blow through. They look like minarets. They are a monument to the original settlers of Mombasa—who grew out of the kingdoms of Mwana Mkisi and Shehe Mvita (these were the Watangana, Wakilindini, Wamvita, Wachangamwe, and Wajomvu communities).
Mama Ngina Waterfront Activities
Here are some of the activities you can enjoy at Mama Ngina Waterfront Park:
1. Strolling and Sightseeing
The park is a great place to unwind and just relax in cool sea-breeze temperatures away from the Mombasa Island heat. The park provides a panoramic scenic view of the Indian Ocean allowing one to watch ships sailing in and out of Mombasa Port and docking at Kilindini Harbour. One can as well go down the cliff to explore the sea during the low tide. The park also offers an opportunity for visitors to see natural flora and fauna which includes the endangered baobab trees, some as old as 400 years, and the rare grey heron birds.
2. Picnicking
The park has designated picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy a meal with family and friends. You can bring your own food or purchase snacks from the nearby food vendors.
3. Outdoor Fitness
There are open spaces in the park that are suitable for outdoor fitness activities. You can jog, run, or practice yoga while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
4. Children’s Play Area
Mama Ngina Waterfront Park has a dedicated play area for children. It is equipped with various playground equipment, such as swings, slides, and climbing structures, where kids can have fun and burn off some energy.
5. Cultural Events and Performances
The park occasionally hosts cultural events, live performances, and concerts. Keep an eye out for any scheduled events, as they provide an opportunity to experience local music, dance, and entertainment.
6. Boat Rides
You can take a boat ride from the park’s jetty and explore the Indian Ocean. Boat operators offer different types of rides, such as short trips along the coastline or longer excursions to nearby islands like Fort Jesus or Mombasa Marine National Park.
7. Water Sports
If you’re seeking some water-based adventure, you can engage in activities like jet skiing, kayaking, or paddleboarding. Rental facilities are available nearby, and you can enjoy these thrilling water sports at Mama Ngina Waterfront Park.
8. Relaxing by the Fountain
The park features an impressive water fountain, where you can sit and relax while enjoying the soothing sound of flowing water. It provides a tranquil spot to unwind and escape the city’s hustle and bustle.
9. Food and Refreshments
The Mama Ngina Waterfront has always been a place for family outings, with a 24-hour offering of coastal snacks sold by small-scale traders who operate here all year long. It is famous for its fried cassava served with a dash of lemon juice and a sprinkle of chili powder (hot masala), freshly fried cassava crisps, locally known as Kachiri, all manner of fried potatoes, pastries, sweet and savory delicacies, chicken and fish snacks and the famous Mkate wa mayai (a pan-fried snack of a thin dough crust filled with minced meat, onion rings, and eggs).
The list of food offerings is endless, and all these are washed down with the ever-present fresh coconut water (not juice) from unmatured coconut known as madafu. No worry as these treats are available all year round.
Mama Ngina Waterfront Features
1. Amphitheatre
The amphitheater is impressive with its design, right out of ancient Rome, cut into the northern cliff side. It has a seating capacity of 3,000 people. Concerts, performances, and cultural events can now be held there comfortably.
2. Kilindini Cultural Centre
The Kilindini Cultural Centre is a key facility in telling the story of the Swahili Culture. It has exhibition halls and screening rooms from where visitors can watch and listen to audio to learn more about the history of the city of Mombasa. The center features Swahili architecture and design, yet has a modern touch. The decorative white plaster finishing, Swahili wooden carved doors, and window shutters are a reflection of what is found in and preserved in the Old Town, with its intricate and fine carving details.
3. Pigeon Towers
The pigeon towers are located at the northern end of Mama Ngina Waterfront Park, near the Mombasa Golf Club and facing the cultural center. These pigeon towers are an important part of the historical and cultural significance of Mombasa, as they represent the traditional Swahili architecture and the heritage of the original settlers of the city. The towers served as a way for the locals to collect pigeon droppings, which were used as a natural fertilizer for crops.
Today, the pigeon towers are a popular attraction for tourists visiting the Kilindini Waterfront. Visitors can admire the intricate designs of the towers and learn about their cultural and historical significance from local tour guides. The towers also provide a stunning backdrop for photos, especially during sunset when the golden light illuminates the towers and the surrounding area.
Mama Ngina Waterfront Entrance Fees
Entry to the park is free
Mama Ngina Waterfront Opening Hours
The park is open daily from 6:00 am to 6:30 pm. The park is also well-lit with strategically placed security lighting, a police post, and public toilets.
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