Kenya is preparing to unveil a unique cultural and historical treasure along its Indian Ocean coastline a groundbreaking underwater museum in Kilifi County. The National Museums of Kenya (NMK) is spearheading the project, which aims to highlight the rich maritime history of the region, featuring some of the most remarkable shipwrecks off Kenya’s shores. The museum, situated at Ras Ngomeni in Kilifi, will offer an immersive experience into the depths of the ocean, revealing centuries-old relics and fascinating stories of seafaring trade.
The centerpiece of the museum will be a 16th-century Portuguese shipwreck, believed to be the oldest known shipwreck discovered along Kenya’s coastline. This shipwreck is significant not only for its historical value but also for the incredible preservation of artefacts found within it. The ship’s discovery over a decade ago sparked the idea of an underwater museum, which has now evolved into a reality, thanks to the dedication of Dr. Caesar Bita, head of coastal archaeology at NMK. Dr. Bita has been the driving force behind the project, and his expertise promises to bring the site to life for future generations.
Visitors to the museum will be able to experience both above-water and underwater exhibitions. Above the water, there will be displays of artefacts recovered from the wrecks, while below the surface, visitors can explore submerged relics via tunnels that offer direct access to the watery graves of the ships. These underwater tunnels will allow tourists to witness the wrecks and marine life up close, providing a rare, firsthand experience of the deep-sea world.
The underwater museum will not only serve as a showcase for the wrecks but also as a research hub for marine biodiversity. The wreck sites have become thriving ecosystems for various marine species, including fish, turtles, and dolphins, making the museum a haven for marine biologists and environmental researchers. These wrecks have created artificial reefs, enriching the biodiversity of the region and offering an opportunity to study how marine life interacts with sunken vessels over time.
Kenya’s coastline is home to at least 33 documented shipwrecks, with 22 of them located off Mombasa, eight near Malindi, and three in Lamu. These wrecks, some of which date back centuries, offer a glimpse into the country’s past interactions with traders from the Arabian Peninsula, India, China, and Europe. Among the notable cargo discovered on these vessels are ivory, cinnabar, and copper, all preserved by the unique conditions of the underwater environment, which has kept them intact for hundreds of years.
The museum is envisioned as a key attraction for both local and international tourists, offering a unique alternative to Kenya’s traditional safari experiences. With its combination of historical intrigue and natural beauty, the underwater museum will provide a fresh perspective on Kenya’s rich cultural heritage. The project’s design was initially conceived in collaboration with US architects in March 2012, drawing inspiration from Egypt’s underwater museum near Sharm el-Sheikh. Upon completion, it will be the first of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa, offering a new way to explore the region’s maritime past.
As the museum takes shape, it is expected to draw tourists, scholars, and marine enthusiasts from across the globe, eager to explore Kenya’s hidden treasures beneath the waves. Through this initiative, Kenya is set to position itself as a unique destination that blends history, culture, and marine conservation in one breathtaking site.
