By Nuru Salim
Diani Beach was the epicenter of a thrilling view as it hosted the Kenya Kite Cup Competition at the Nomad Hotel.
The event, organised and sponsored by the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) drew elite kite surfers from countries like Germany, the Netherlands, Iceland, Tanzania, and Kenyan surfers.
In partnership with Diani Turtle Watch, the competition focused on protecting three threatened turtle species, the green turtle, hawksbill turtle, and olive ridley turtle, all listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.
Fundraising efforts included sponsorships, raffle sales, and direct donations with all proceeds dedicated to safeguarding these marine creatures.
“Turtles are bio indicators of ecosystem health,” explained Halima Shilingi, the Project Coordinator for Diani Turtle Watch.
“They play a vital role in maintaining coral reefs and seagrass meadows, which are essential for marine biodiversity. Their absence signals a failing ecosystem, and that’s why our conservation efforts are so critical.”
However, the fight to protect turtles is not without challenges. “Poaching and egg theft remain persistent problems,” Shilingi noted.
“There are also environmental threats like fire ant infestations while relocating nests, which have devastating effects on hatchlings. Despite these hurdles, the Diani community has been incredibly supportive, with education programs helping to raise awareness particularly among fishermen and schoolchildren.”
The Kenya Kite Cup highlighted the connection between sports and conservation, creating an event that blended athleticism, environmental advocacy, and community engagement.
With Kenya’s coastal tourism deeply tied to marine biodiversity, the competition underscored the economic and ecological importance of preserving species like turtles.
“Turtles are not just environmental assets, they are economic drivers,” Shilingi emphasized.
“Tourists flock to Kenya’s coastal areas to experience its unique marine life, and turtles are a key attraction. Protecting them is an investment in the future of our tourism sector.” She added.
The event also shone a spotlight on Kenya’s growing potential as a global hub for water sports.
Ben Kelleher, founder of Tribe Watersports in Watamu praised the competition stating, “It’s inspiring to see international athletes and local talent uniting for a cause that matters. This event not only raises awareness about marine conservation but also puts Kenya on the global kite surfing map.”
Kelleher revealed plans for a turtle rehabilitation center along Kenya’s south coast.
“Healthy turtles mean a healthy ocean, and that benefits everyone from fishermen to tourists. By preserving these ecosystems, we’re safeguarding livelihoods and creating opportunities for future generations,” he said.
The competition also attracted international champions like Stig Hoefnagal from the Netherlands, who won both the Men’s Freestyle and Race categories.
Hoefnagal’s connection to the event extended beyond the podium, as he donated his prize money to Diani Turtle Watch.
“Giving back feels right,” Hoefnagal said. “This was a charity event, and I believe in protecting the ocean as it’s our playground. Events like this show that sports can inspire real environmental change. Plus, the vibe here in Diani is incredible. The organization and the people are amazing.”
In the Women’s Freestyle category, Iceland’s Freya Goldsmith celebrated her first championship win after two years as a runner-up.
“This victory is more than just the sport,” Goldsmith said. “It’s about protecting the waters we love to surf in. Events like this inspire us to care for the environment and the life it sustains.”
For Zanzibar’s Suleiman Abdallah Hassan, winner of the Highest Jump category, the competition was more than personal success.
“Kite surfing is my life,” Hassan said. “Back home, it’s a major tourist attraction, with 80% of visitors to Zanzibar engaging in the sport. It’s also a livelihood for many, including me. I started kite surfing at 14, and it’s taken me to places I never dreamed of.”
Hassan encouraged East African nations to prioritize the sport.
“Invest in water sports,” he urged. “We have the talent and the beaches, but we need infrastructure and government support to put us on the global map. Kite surfing is safer than many people think, and it can transform economies through tourism.”
Kenyan athletes also made their mark, with Aron Sombo finishing as the first runner-up in the Kite Race.
Meanwhile, Diani-based instructor Siajabu Omar called on the government to recognize the untapped potential of water sports.
“Kenya has world-class talent and breathtaking beaches. But we face significant challenges, particularly the high cost of imported equipment. Most locals can’t afford it, and that limits participation. With government investment and policy support, we could nurture local talent and elevate Kenya as a global leader in water sports.” He noted.
Omar further advocated for structured programs and sponsorships to promote accessibility and sustainability in water sports.
“The potential is immense, not just for kite surfing but for other water-based activities as well.” He said.
”By investing in training facilities, equipment, and international collaborations, Kenya could attract more global events like the Olympics, boosting tourism and creating jobs for locals,” he added.
The beach sports showcased in Diani highlighted the immense potential of investing in water sports as a transformative pillar for Kenya’s sports and tourism sectors.
This global spotlight on Kenya’s coastline serves as a call for the nation to harness its untapped resources, turning water sports into a cornerstone of economic growth.
By fostering local talent, providing necessary infrastructure and actively promoting events like kite surfing competitions, Kenya can position itself as a premier destination for international beach sports, driving tourism, creating jobs, and elevating the country’s global sporting profile.
