Kenya is poised to unveil its first underwater museum, a groundbreaking initiative centered on showcasing over 500 Portuguese shipwrecks recently discovered in Ngomeni, Magarini Sub-County, Kilifi County. This ambitious project promises to illuminate a crucial chapter in maritime history, highlighting Kenya’s rich underwater heritage.
The shipwrecks, uncovered by local fishermen in the Indian Ocean, are believed to date back to around 1524. Among these remarkable finds is a vessel measuring approximately 20 meters in width and 40 meters in length, thought to have been used by the legendary Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama during one of his final expeditions. However, uncertainty persists among experts regarding whether the vessel served as a warship or a trading ship.
A Breakthrough in Underwater Archeology
The excavation is spearheaded by Kenya’s sole underwater archeologist, Ceaser Bita, representing the National Museums of Kenya. Over the past 15 days, Bita’s team has made significant progress, recovering numerous artifacts, including pottery and elephant tusks, that shed light on the ship’s purpose and the historical context of its journey.
“This discovery is a testament to Kenya’s unexplored underwater heritage. The artifacts not only tell a story of early trade and exploration but also highlight the potential of maritime archeology in unveiling our past,” said Bita during a press briefing.
The Ngomeni Underwater Excavation is sponsored by Gari Philbrick, a 77-year-old American philanthropist, in collaboration with Professor Filipe Castro, a Portuguese underwater archeology expert. Their efforts, alongside those of local fishermen and the Kenya Coast Guard, underline the global significance of the findings.
Touring the Historical Site
Journalists were recently taken on a guided tour of the excavation site at Ras Ngome in Ngomeni by Susan Mtakai of the Kenya Coast Guard. The tour provided an opportunity to witness the intricate process of underwater excavation and gain insights into the challenges and triumphs of unearthing centuries-old maritime relics.
“This is a monumental step for Kenya. Our waters hold treasures that are critical to understanding global history, and this museum will serve as a gateway to that knowledge,” said Mtakai.
A Cultural and Economic Asset
The proposed underwater museum will not only highlight the historical significance of the shipwrecks but also establish Kilifi County as a key cultural and tourist destination. It is expected to attract researchers, history enthusiasts, and tourists from around the world, eager to explore Kenya’s maritime history.
Beyond its cultural impact, the museum has the potential to contribute significantly to the local economy. With increased tourism, local businesses, including those run by fishermen, stand to benefit from a surge in visitors.
The Untapped Underwater Heritage
Kenya’s underwater heritage has largely remained unexplored until now, with the Ngomeni shipwrecks marking a pivotal moment in maritime archeology. The findings open the door to further research into the Indian Ocean’s historical trade routes and interactions between African, Asian, and European civilizations.
Looking Ahead
As Kenya prepares to establish this underwater museum, there is an undeniable sense of excitement among stakeholders. The project is not only a celebration of the nation’s heritage but also a step towards preserving and showcasing it for future generations.
The government, along with private stakeholders, is expected to support the initiative through investments in infrastructure, security, and promotion. With such backing, the underwater museum could soon become a global center for maritime history and archeology, firmly placing Kenya on the map of underwater cultural heritage.
This pioneering effort serves as a reminder of the treasures lying beneath Kenya’s waters, waiting to be discovered and celebrated. The underwater museum promises to be more than just a repository of artifacts it will be a bridge connecting the past with the present, inspiring exploration, learning, and conservation.
