It was pomp and colour in the remote Faza island in Lamu county,as revelers turned up in large numbers,both young and old dressed in traditional Islamic attires.
The first ever cultural festival was held in Faza Island located in Lamu East. Revelers had an opportunity to witness the ancient cultural practices of the Bajunis who have lived in the area for centuries. According to Shakilla Abdalla who organized the event, it was meant to empower the women in the area by giving them a chance to show case their culture.
Some of the displays included different coconut products, some of which are turned to strong ropes used for building Swahili houses. Lots of traditional dances were also performed.
Also present was the Taita Taveta Member of Parliament Naomi Shabaan,who applauded Lamu for the bold move to preserve their culture and engage women.
Hindu Salim from Lamu said that they had come together to celebrate their cultural heritage which they say is their norm to preserve, urging the youth to learn from their elders.
Faza is one of the many Islands found in the Lamu east sub county, with majority of the residents depending on fishing and farming.