Water Sporting in Lamu: A Cherished Tradition Calling for a Safer Environment

On the stunning island of Lamu, water sports have long been a cherished tradition. From thrilling swimming competitions to exhilarating dhow races and the daring Greased Pole challenge, the island's coastline comes alive with excitement.

However, the bustling seafront of Amu Island, where these activities take place, presents its own set of challenges and dangers.

Need for a Dedicated Sports Complex

Jaafar Shemanga, one of the organizers of the swimming competition, acknowledges the need for Lamu to have a dedicated sports complex. He proposes the construction of a swimming pool that can be used for such events.

"Currently, organizing competitions on the seafront requires the removal of parked boats and the suspension of loading and unloading activities on the jetty. This disruption interferes with the island's daily routine," he said.

Safety Concerns

Mohamed Yunus, a boat captain, raises concerns about the risks associated with hosting swimming competitions on the seafront. He highlights the danger of participants being cut by the corals that cling to the walls of the jetty.

Furthermore, the event's location on the main jetties, such as the KPA Jetty and Mangroves Jetty, inconveniences passengers and causes them to lose customers.

"This competition should be taken to a pool because it’s very dangerous for swimmers. Some boat operators don't adhere to the instructions. We had a case two years ago where one of the competitors was accidentally injured," the Captain said.

Challenges Faced by Swimmers

Answar Ali, an experienced swimmer who has participated in numerous competitions on the island, understands the challenges faced by swimmers. He firmly believes that these obstacles discourage many talented swimmers from pursuing their passion.

"Swimming competitions have to be fair enough, but for us, we swim in an ocean where we battle with water currents, corals, and salty water. This makes us weak once we complete the race," said Answar, a retired swimmer.

A Thriving Water Sports Culture

The thriving water sports culture in Lamu deserves the attention it commands. By establishing a dedicated sports complex, equipped with a suitable swimming pool, the government can provide a safer and more conducive environment for athletes to develop their skills.

"Such an investment would not only promote the island's sporting heritage but also inspire the younger generation to embrace their talents and pursue their dreams," said Adam Ali, one of the organizers of the swimming competition.