MOMBASA: Kenyans across the nation joined billions worldwide in welcoming the New Year 2025 with vibrant celebrations marked by gatherings in hotels, public spaces, and religious venues. In Mombasa, the coastal city was alive with festivities, drawing residents to places like Mama Ngina Waterfront and local churches for night vigil masses, where community leaders called for peace and unity in the coming year.
According to Kenya News Agency, Father Vincent Alicho of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Shanzu used his New Year sermon to urge the Kenyan government to focus on meeting the basic needs of its citizens despite ongoing economic challenges. Reflecting on the past year, Fr. Alicho noted 2024 was marked by significant political unrest, largely driven by youth protests that had a profound impact on the nation’s political landscape. He commended President Ruto for reconsidering his stance on the controversial Finance Bill 2024, a move that aligned with public sentiment.
Fr. Alicho, a Nigerian missionary, em
phasized the importance of political leaders listening to their constituents to prevent a repeat of last year’s anti-government demonstrations. He called on politicians to prioritize the welfare of citizens, asserting that Kenya’s policies should be people-oriented. Furthermore, he highlighted the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops’ concerns regarding the current administration’s economic and political strategies, advocating for a peaceful approach in all sectors of society.
The New Year celebrations saw a surge in hospitality activity, with most hotels and restaurants in Mombasa reporting full bookings. Hospitality industry stakeholders expressed optimism about a positive economic outlook for 2025. Hillary Siele, General Manager of Travellers Beach Hotel, noted significant improvements in security and transportation, contributing to the successful turnout. He called on the government to address infrastructure issues such as power fluctuations and expedite road construction projects in the region.
As part
of the festivities, Mombasa residents enjoyed entertainment from local artists and a spectacular fireworks display over the Indian Ocean, organized by Jay Pyrotechnics. Master Projection Artist Zameer Noorali expressed satisfaction at bringing joy to both locals and international visitors through their shows and consumer fireworks, which were distributed across the county.
