As delegates settled into the vast dome tents at Homa Bay High School—the official venue for the 2025 Devolution Conference—an almost equal number found themselves drawn away from the formal sessions, lured by the breeze and tranquil beauty of Lake Victoria’s shoreline.
The transformation along the Homa Bay lake front is striking.
From the recently established arboretum and modern pier to a state-of-the-art fish market, the waterfront tells a new story of ambition and renewal.
But it is one addition—the newly unveiled Beachfront Amphitheatre—that has stolen the show. Named the Ugatuzi Amphitheatre, the sweeping, open-air venue has become a social-media sensation, tempting delegates to trade speeches and panel discussions for lakeside views.
Residents of Homa Bay town and delegates attending the Devolution Conference relax at Ugatuzi Amphitheatre in Homa Bay town on August 14, 2025.
Photo credit: Alex Odhiambo | Nation Media Group
Since Sunday, a steady stream of visitors from across the county and beyond has made the short journey to see the Amphitheatre for themselves. Its gracefully tiered terraces, cabro-paved walkways and oval performance stage frame uninterrupted vistas of Lake Victoria.
Inspired by the Mama Ngina Waterfront in Mombasa and reminiscent of Cape Town’s coastline, it is a space for strolls, performances, quiet contemplation—or simply watching the sun sink beneath the horizon.
When fully completed, the Amphitheatre will be flanked by wide lawns, inviting visitors to linger, relax or picnic. Those who have already visited speak of beauty, peace and renewal. Many stop to take photographs; others simply sit in stillness, captivated by the view.
“It looked too good to be true online, so I came to see it for myself. It’s truly impressive,” said Morgan Omollo.
Pastor Daniel Obutu, visiting with members of his congregation, was visibly moved.
“This area was once chaotic and unpleasant. There was hyacinth everywhere and the lake front was inaccessible. The transformation is unbelievable. I now have a story to tell my family—and a reason to bring them here,” he said. For Shantel Awino, the Amphitheatre promises a renaissance in local culture.
“Seeing artists perform by the lake shore will be a dream come true—for performers and audiences alike. This is the kind of recreational development we’ve needed for years,” she said.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga said relocating government offices away from the lakeside was a deliberate move to make way for public recreational spaces.
Visitors and locals sightsee at the Ugatuzi Amphitheatre in Homa Bay town on August 14, 2025.
Photo credit: Alex Odhiambo | Nation Media Group
“Don’t confine yourself to the conference venue—venture out and discover the beauty of this county. We are building a futuristic city, and we want Homa Bay to be a model of progress, culture and natural charm,” she said.
Ahead of the conference’s official opening, President William Ruto toured the new arboretum. Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang’ reflected on the pace of change: “Three years ago, 90 per cent of the public infrastructure you see today simply didn’t exist. There’s much more to come—watch this space,” he said.
On social media, praise has poured in for the county government’s efforts in reshaping the waterfront. For Hesbone Omollo, the Amphitheatre holds personal meaning—just minutes from his home.
“When a breathtaking destination lies only 10 minutes away, it’s a testament to visionary leadership. The Homa Bay lake front is magnificent,” he wrote.
Observers say the development is a call to other riparian counties to unlock Lake Victoria’s untapped potential for tourism and economic growth.
