Tour operators in the coastal town of Watamu are expressing renewed optimism for a spike in tourist arrivals as the 2025–2026 high season begins, buoyed by intensified local efforts to brand the destination as a premier eco-friendly beach getaway.
This optimism was on full display during the annual beach clean-up celebration held on August 1st. The event, organized by the Watamu Boat Owners and Operators Association in partnership with the local community, marked the official launch of the tourism season. It served as both an environmental conservation drive and a unifying event for stakeholders in the tourism sector.
Hussein Ahmed Abdi, Treasurer of the Watamu Community Boat Owners and Operators, emphasized the group’s commitment to both sustainability and visitor experience. “We’re hopeful for better fortunes this year. The beach clean-up isn’t just about cleanliness—it’s a declaration of our dedication to eco-tourism. This season, we’re focusing on immersive experiences like the Safari Blue Excursion, which includes dolphin watching, snorkeling, and enjoying fresh seafood on nearby islands,” he said.
As part of their corporate social responsibility, the association, together with schools and residents, engaged in extensive cleaning activities, distributed free meals, and held interfaith prayers to usher in a prosperous season. Abdi also noted that tourism revenue over the last six years has had a significant impact on local development. “We now have a community ambulance, generators for churches and mosques, and educational support for orphaned children, all funded through tourism,” he added.
Fadhil Omar, Chairman of the Community Boat Owners and Operators, highlighted the inclusivity of the event. “We bring together everyone, boat operators, safari sellers, curio vendors, even school children, to reinforce our collective role in environmental preservation and cultural promotion,” he said.
Echoing the sentiment, Justin Kitsao, Chair of the Watamu Safari Sellers Association, described the initiative as a transformative step for the town’s tourism identity. “This is not just a clean-up; it’s a grassroots movement to reclaim and redefine our tourism product. By promoting ecotourism and embracing our heritage, we’re creating sustainable livelihoods while protecting our environment,” he noted.
With coordinated community action, strong partnerships, and a focus on sustainability, Watamu is positioning itself as a model destination where tourism, culture, and conservation intersect, offering visitors an authentic, responsible, and enriching travel experience.
Written By Rodney Mbua
