In Mombasa, politics and music have long shared a close and dynamic relationship. Beyond rallies and policy platforms, governors have increasingly relied on artists to craft their public image, energize supporters, and define the atmosphere of official and social functions.

From the tenure of former Governor Hassan Joho to the current leadership of Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, music has remained a powerful cultural and political tool.

During his time in office, Hassan Joho cultivated a vibrant entertainment circle that became synonymous with his brand. Central to this was a group of musicians including Susumila, K.O, and Happy C. These artists were more than performers, they were key contributors to Joho’s political identity, composing songs and delivering performances that resonated with his supporters.

Behind the scenes, media personality Gates Mgenge played a crucial organizational role. He coordinated entertainment at many of Joho’s functions, ensuring that events maintained a consistent energy and appeal. Under his guidance, music became an integral part of Joho’s engagements, whether political rallies or high-profile gatherings.

Among the standout contributions from this era is Susumila’s hit song Ngoma Itambae. The track became something of an anthem, frequently featured at Joho’s events and closely associated with his public persona. Even after Joho left office, Susumila has remained an active figure in Mombasa’s entertainment scene and continues to be linked to the former governor.

With the transition to Governor Abdulswamad Nassir’s administration, a new generation of artists has taken center stage. Much like his predecessor, Nassir has embraced music as a key element of his political communication strategy. Leading this effort is Amoury, who plays a role similar to that once held by Gates Mgenge, helping to organize performances and shape the governor’s entertainment lineup.

Amoury is also the creative force behind Wewe Ndio Governor, a viral political song that has quickly become synonymous with Nassir’s campaigns and public appearances. The track serves not only as a rallying cry but also as a defining piece of Nassir’s political identity, echoing across events and resonating with supporters.

Supporting Amoury in Nassir’s lineup are artists such as Dazlah, Ally Mahaba, and Yahry Mashairi. Together, they form a diverse and energetic group that continues to elevate the role of music in Mombasa’s political landscape.

The evolution from Joho’s era to Nassir’s leadership highlights a broader trend, the fusion of governance and popular culture.

In Mombasa, music is more than entertainment, it is a strategic tool for connection, identity, and influence. As new leaders emerge and cultural dynamics shift, one thing remains clear: the rhythm of politics in this coastal city will continue to be shaped by the voices and beats of its musicians.

Mombasa Senator Mohamed Faki has called for increased vigilance among civil society organizations, warning that constitutional violations in Kenya remain widespread despite the gains made under the Constitution of Kenya 2010.

Speaking during the 10-year anniversary celebrations of Haki Africa, the Senator noted that the expansion of actors in the civil society space is critical to safeguarding citizens’ rights.

“The more the players in the civil society space, the better the realization of the rights of the people,” he said, adding that there has been little progress in curbing violations compared to the period between 1963 and 2010.

Faki emphasized that the struggle for justice requires sustained pressure and oversight. “There is no relaxation. The fight and internal vigilance must continue,” he urged.

He also raised concerns about the conduct of prosecutions under the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, noting that some cases brought before courts lack sufficient evidence and are often withdrawn, leading to unnecessary costs.

“It is ironic that police arrest individuals and then seek time to investigate. The process should be reversed—investigate first, then arrest,” he said.

The Senator further pointed to systemic injustices that disproportionately affect ordinary citizens, particularly at the county level. He highlighted challenges in accessing basic rights such as healthcare and clean water.

“In Mombasa, many households rely on borehole water, raising concerns about access to clean and safe water,” he noted.

Faki challenged civil society organizations to expand their focus to include rights violations within county governments, especially in essential service delivery sectors.

His remarks come amid growing calls for accountability and strengthened oversight mechanisms to ensure that constitutional protections translate into tangible benefits for all Kenyans.

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is intensifying its youth mobilization drive with a planned regional rally in Malindi on Saturday, as part of its broader Youth Convention campaign ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The Malindi rally follows a high-profile youth convention recently held in Nairobi, where party leaders emphasized youth empowerment, voter registration, and political participation as central pillars of ODM’s strategy. During that meeting, leaders reiterated that young people remain the “backbone of the party” and called for sustained engagement beyond election cycles.

At the Nairobi gathering, senior party officials including governors and national leaders—urged young Kenyans to actively register as voters and seek leadership positions. The party also announced the opening of application portals for aspirants, signaling a push for inclusive nominations and greater youth representation.

ODM leadership stressed that political power requires both organization and participation, encouraging youth to balance activism with structured engagement. The message is expected to carry into the Malindi rally, which will target coastal youth and grassroots mobilization.

The Malindi event is part of a wider rollout of regional rallies aimed at strengthening ODM’s support base across the country. Party insiders indicate that such events will bring together youth leaders, elected officials, and grassroots organizers to coordinate campaign strategies and expand voter outreach.

Recent updates suggest that key figures within the party, including senior leadership, are expected to attend these regional engagements, reinforcing the importance of youth in ODM’s future political roadmap.

Political analysts view the youth conventions and regional rallies as a strategic move by ODM to consolidate its grassroots networks and energize first-time voters. With youth forming a significant portion of Kenya’s electorate, the party appears focused on positioning itself as a vehicle for youth-driven leadership and policy influence.

The Malindi rally is therefore expected to serve not only as a mobilization event but also as a platform for shaping the party’s agenda as it prepares for the next electoral cycle.

Britam has unveiled the Britam Whole Life Insurance Plan, a lifetime life insurance solution that helps Kenyans plan their future, protect what they build, and provide long-term support for their loved ones.

Unlike term insurance, which ends after a set period, the Whole Life Insurance Plan offers lifetime cover. The benefit payable to chosen beneficiaries increases by 3% each year to help preserve its value over time. All benefits under the policy, including death, disability and critical illness payouts, are tax-free.

The solution offers customers a structured way to pass on wealth and reduce uncertainty for their families and loved ones. It can also help cover estate-related costs during succession and may be used as part of estate planning, including through Britam’s trust management services which sets the plan apart.

Customers have the option to name Britam Trust as beneficiary under the policy. This allows the benefits to be administered through a structured trust arrangement, with instructions that can determine when and how funds are paid out to the beneficiaries. The approach gives policyholders greater control over how their estate is handled and how their loved ones receive support.

“The Britam Whole Life Insurance Plan reflects our commitment to offering solutions that go beyond basic protection. It is designed to help customers leave something meaningful for the people they love, with cover that grows over time and lasts a lifetime,” said Britam Group Managing Director and CEO, Tom Gitogo.

The plan offers flexible payment options, including monthly premiums from KES 3,000 over 10, 15 or 20 years, or a one-off single premium. Customers choose the structure that suits their circumstances. Medical examinations are only required for cover above KES 15 million.

Customers can also add optional benefits to the policy, including Permanent Total Disability, Critical Illness and Funeral Expense cover, with the last expense benefit reaching up to KES 500,000 offering comprehensive life insurance coverage for the moments when life takes unexpected turns.

The Whole Life solution expands Britam’s range of long-term protection solutions and responds to growing demand for products that support wealth preservation, family security and orderly transfer of assets across generations.

“We listened to what customers and partners were telling us: they want protection that is accessible, lasting and built around real-life needs. This plan brings together lifetime cover, flexible payment options and simple entry requirements in a way that supports legacy planning,” added Mr. Gitogo.

The united opposition  has announced a high-stakes political tour in Mombasa, signaling an escalation in grassroots mobilization efforts ahead of a potentially turbulent political season.

The faction, led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua  is positioning the “Ziara ya Ukombozi” as a defining moment in its campaign against the current administration.

The three-day tour, scheduled for April 24–26, 2026, brings together leadrs, including Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, Eugene Wamalwa, Justin Muturi, Mithika Linturi, and Mohamed Ali. Their joint appearance underscores a growing alignment among opposition figures seeking to reframe the national political narrative.

A Campaign Framed Around “Liberation”

Branding the tour as a “liberation movement,” the opposition wing is expected to sharpen its criticism of government policies, particularly on the rising cost of living, economic inequality, and governance concerns. Allies of Rigathi Gachagua have framed the initiative as a people-driven pushback against what they describe as exclusionary leadership and unfulfilled promises.

Political observers note that adopting the “Ukombozi” (liberation) message is a strategic attempt to resonate with historically marginalized coastal communities, especially in urban centers like Mombasa.

Strategic Coastal Engagement

The itinerary reflects a deliberate effort to penetrate key population hubs. The tour kicks off on Friday evening at the busy Likoni Ferry, a symbolic and economically vital transit point. On Saturday, the leaders will traverse high-density areas including Kongowea Market, Mwembe Tayari, and Tanonoka.

The final day blends religious outreach with political messaging, starting with a church service before rallies in Bamburi and Changamwe—areas seen as politically influential within the coastal voting bloc.

Power Struggles and Realignments

The emergence of this opposition wing highlights ongoing fractures within Kenya’s political landscape. Since his fallout with the ruling establishment, Rigathi Gachagua has been recalibrating his political base, increasingly aligning with figures who have previously stood in opposition to the government.

Analysts suggest that the inclusion of leaders like Martha Karua and Kalonzo Musyoka signals a broader attempt to unify disparate opposition factions under a common agenda—potentially laying groundwork for future electoral cooperation.

High Stakes for the Coast Region

The coast has long been a swing region in Kenyan elections, and the opposition’s intensified focus on Mombasa could reshape local political dynamics. By targeting economic hubs and grassroots gathering points, the leaders aim to galvanize public sentiment and position themselves as viable alternatives to the current leadership.

Mombasa Woman Representative Zamzam Mohammed has urged women in the county to reject divisive politics and instead rally behind leaders who genuinely support their welfare.

Speaking during a women’s empowerment fund drive in Nyali organized by Speaker Aharub Khatri, Zamzam cautioned against what she termed as “selfish politicians” misleading the public for personal gain.

“It is high time that as women we refuse to be deceived. Let us stand with leaders who have our interests at heart,” she said.

The Woman Representative strongly defended Speaker Khatri against critics questioning his generosity, noting that his contributions have had a direct impact on the lives of many residents. She challenged leaders to complement such efforts instead of engaging in criticism.

“If you truly want to help our people, then bring your beans when Aharub brings rice—not just criticism,” she stated.

Zamzam further declared that women in Mombasa are ready to support and defend leaders who champion development, warning those opposing such initiatives that they would face resistance from the grassroots.

Reflecting on her tenure, she noted that for years women in Mombasa had not fully benefited from the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF), but significant progress has been made under her leadership.

"For the last 10 years of devolution, women did not see NGAAF funds, but today they can feel the impact. I am committed to empowering women through this fund and will continue advocating for their rights,” she said.

At the same time, the legislator called on the county government to operationalize the Sh100 million revolving fund approved by the County Assembly, saying it would go a long way in supporting small-scale traders and vulnerable groups.

 Kadzandani Member of County Assembly (MCA) Fatma Kushe has defended Mombasa County Assembly Speaker Aharub Khatri, praising his generosity and support to residents while dismissing criticism directed at him.

Speaking during a food distribution drive for women in Nyali Constituency organised by Speaker Khatri, Kushe clarified that MCAs do not have designated public funds to directly assist residents, noting that most of the help they extend comes from their personal earnings.

“MCAs have no money set aside to give directly to the people. What we give comes from our own salaries,” she said.

Kushe emphasized that many MCAs in Mombasa rely on the goodwill and support of Speaker Khatri, whom she credited for stepping in to assist vulnerable families in times of need. According to her, the Speaker has been instrumental in settling hospital bills and clearing mortuary expenses for struggling residents.

“He has been a big help to us. He has supported many by paying hospital bills and even clearing mortuary bills,” she added.

The MCA dismissed critics of the Speaker’s philanthropic efforts, terming them as driven by jealousy and unnecessary scrutiny.

“Those attacking the Speaker for his generosity are just jealous. Why should anyone be bothered by what he gives out?” she posed.

Kushe further declared that MCAs are ready to support Khatri in any future political ambitions.

At the same time, she urged women in Nyali and across Mombasa to remain vigilant as the political season approaches, warning against being misled or divided by politicians seeking votes.

“To my fellow women, let us be careful with those who will come seeking votes. Do not be deceived or divided,” she cautioned.

Her sentiments were echoed by Ziwa La Ng’ombe MCA Hamisi Nyota who claimed that the Speaker’s impact has been felt widely across the county.

“There is hardly anyone in Mombasa County who has not directly benefited from the Speaker’s generosity. He has been paying hospital bills and even school fees from his own pocket,” the MCA said.

The Ziwa La Ng’ombe legislator also sought to clarify the mandate of MCAs, noting that many residents often misunderstand their role.

“You have been complaining that MCAs do not construct roads or provide water, but that is not our role. Our main responsibility is representation and oversight,” he stated.

The food drive, which targeted women from Nyali Constituency, forms part of ongoing community outreach initiatives spearheaded by Speaker Khatri aimed at supporting vulnerable groups amid rising economic challenges.