Kwale County buzzes with activity as 61st Mashujaa Day celebrations attract thousands

Kwale County was a hive of activity this weekend as it hosted the 61^st Mashujaa Day celebrations, attracting thousands of visitors from across the country.

The coastal region, known for its pristine beaches and serene landscapes, transformed into a bustling hub with local businesses experiencing a boom in sales, while transporters hiked fares to cater to the influx of visitors.

In Diani, the region's popular tourist destination, streets were filled with both locals and tourists as businesspersons hawked goods ranging from colourful khangas, beaded jewelry, and handmade art pieces.

Vendors reported a sharp increase in sales, with many selling their wares at higher-than-usual prices, taking advantage of the holiday crowd.

"Business has been good," said Amina Hussein, a local vendor selling khangas along the Diani beach.

Adding that since yesterday, They have  seen a significant increase in customers, and they are grateful for the extra income.

"The Mashujaa Day celebrations have really brought a lot of people to our region,"said Amina.

The lively scene, however, was not confined to the beaches. In the transport sector, commuters found themselves grappling with a sharp increase in fares.

According to locals, transport costs had gone up by at least Sh 50 per route due to the influx of visitors heading to Kwale Town for the day’s events.

A commuter from Likoni, Grace Njeri, expressed frustration at the fare hike.

"Yesterday, I paid Sh 150 from Likoni to Ukunda, but today, it is  Sh 200 to Kwale town. It is  unfair because the fare was Sh 150 just last week.It seems like the holiday rush has given some matatu operators the excuse to overcharge ," she said while waiting for a matatu at the Likoni stage.

The morning rush to Kwale Town was palpable as matatu stages in Likoni, Ukunda, and other surrounding areas were filled with passengers eager to attend the Mashujaa Day celebrations at Kwale Stadium.

For many, this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the national event firsthand.

The fare hikes were confirmed by local matatu operators, who explained that the surge in passenger numbers had forced them to increase fares.

"We have to adjust the fare because of the large number of passengers coming in for the holiday,” said Isaac Mwangi, a matatu operator plying the Likoni-Kwale route.

President William Ruto graced the Mashujaa Day celebrations at Kwale Stadium, where thousands of people gathered to honor the country's heroes.

The event was marked by vibrant performances, cultural displays, and speeches celebrating Kenya’s heroes and heroines who contributed to the nation's freedom.

Local businesses around Kwale town also reaped the rewards of the influx of visitors. Shops, restaurants, and hotels experienced high footfall as people sought refreshments and accommodation ahead of the celebrations.

For many residents, the Mashujaa Day festivities were a welcome economic boost, but some were concerned about the transport fare increases.

"It is a mixed blessing. While the influx of visitors is great for business, the sudden increase in fares is putting a strain on many people who depend on public transport to get around ,” said Mr Hamisi Mwajopo, a local businessman.