Residents and tourism stakeholders on Mombasa Island are urging the rehabilitation of neglected inland beaches such as Madhubaha, Fort Jesus foreshore, and Tudor. This situation forces locals to rely on northern beaches like Bamburi and Nyali. The county government has plans to address sewage pollution to restore these beaches' appeal.
Mombasa Island faces significant challenges in maintaining its inland beaches, which have become polluted and underutilized. Sites like Madhubaha, Fort Jesus foreshore, and Tudor are neglected, with filth from rainwater and sewage making the water unappealing, allowing only a few locals to venture in. In the past, youth gathered here for diving and swimming on weekends, but now visitors merely view the scenery before leaving.
Ahmed Said Mbarak, a Fort Jesus resident, believes restoration could yield major tourism gains. “This area has great potential because Fort Jesus attracts many people. If we had a proper recreational spot, things would be different,” he said. At Tudor, Abdalla Mangale, a volunteer guard since 2020, has tried cleaning the area to protect children from accidents, but sewage odors deter tourists. “We have a group that investors can partner with to ensure the community benefits,” he added.
The only notable public recreational space is Mama Ngina Garden, reopened on October 20, 2019, by President Uhuru Kenyatta after a Sh460 million renovation. Minister Mohamed Hussein stated the county is mandating biodigesters in new buildings and building a sewage treatment plant. “Beaches have the power to connect people and change lives,” he said.
Dr. Sam Ikwaye, chair of the coastal hotels association, criticized poor management and unclear responsibilities between national and county governments. Efforts are underway to draft beach management laws with Kwale and Mombasa counties.