Across the world, iconic coastal cities like Barcelona, Miami, Cape Town, and Tel Aviv are known for urban beaches that function as a seamless extension of everyday city life.
In these cities, residents jog, swim, and socialise just steps away from busy city streets. In Mombasa, Kenya's island city surrounded by the Indian Ocean, the situation is different.
Residents and visitors to the island often have to head to the North Coast mainland, some as far as 20 kilometres away, for recreation at the beach. The island's own shores, such as Madhubaha, the Fort Jesus waterfront, and Tudor Beach, remain largely underutilised and neglected.
A high-angle view of Tudor Beach, one of Mombasa’s underutilised shores. Despite its potential as a vibrant public beach, the area remains neglected due to a persistent stench from nearby sewage lines that scares away ocean lovers.
Photo credit: Jurgen Nambeka | Nation Media Group
Nowadays, only a few residents can brave the stormwater and enjoy a swim.
“I decided to stay here for the sake of the children who come to swim; accidents used to occur because they were never accompanied by guardians. We have tried beautifying the place and even securing space for temporary lavatories. However, what causes people to leave and never come back is the smell from the sewage. Some get to the water but will not enter because they perceive it as dirty,” said Mr Mangale.
A high-angle view of Tudor Beach, one of Mombasa’s underutilised shores. Despite its potential as a vibrant public beach, the area remains neglected due to a persistent stench from nearby sewage lines that scares away ocean lovers.
Photo credit: Jurgen Nambeka | Nation Media Group
