Business and culture are taking centre stage in Mombasa as the sixth edition of the Firi Festival and Business Expo brings together companies, entrepreneurs and cultural groups at Mama Ngina Waterfront, turning the city into a hub of trade, innovation and cultural celebration.
The two-day festival, running from July 10 to July 11, has attracted exhibitors from different industries who are using the platform to showcase products, launch new offerings and engage directly with customers. At the same time, cultural groups are entertaining visitors with performances that reflect the diverse traditions of communities living along Kenya's Coast.
Organised by Radio Generation and Asmali Media, the annual event seeks to promote local businesses, strengthen economic opportunities and encourage cultural interaction by creating a shared space where commerce and heritage meet.
Organisers said the festival has evolved into more than a business exhibition, providing a platform that supports entrepreneurship while celebrating the cultural identity of the Coast. This year's event features communities including the Somali, Mijikenda and Kamba, with free entry allowing residents and visitors to take part throughout the two days.
Alongside the business exhibitions, visitors are enjoying traditional foods, local delicacies and cultural displays that showcase the region's heritage while giving entrepreneurs an opportunity to market their products and build new business relationships.
According to the organisers, the growing number of participating brands reflects increasing confidence in the festival as an important platform for both business growth and community engagement.
Two employees of Electric mobility company KENBO display their products during Firi Festival Business Expo at Mama Ngina Waterfront in Mombasa on July 10, 2026.
The event is also reinforcing Mombasa's position as a destination where trade, tourism and culture support one another. By attracting thousands of visitors to the waterfront, the festival is increasing business for local traders, artisans, transport operators and service providers while giving consumers direct access to manufacturers and businesses under one roof.
Residents attending the opening praised the return of the annual event, saying it provides an opportunity to enjoy cultural entertainment, sample different products, benefit from promotional offers and interact with companies without travelling to multiple locations. Others said the increased visitor numbers are creating temporary income opportunities for small businesses operating around the venue.
Participating companies are also using the festival to strengthen customer relationships, introduce new products and better understand the needs of consumers across the coastal region.
Electric mobility company KENBO is among the exhibitors displaying electric scooters, motorcycles, tricycles and other mobility solutions aimed at both personal and commercial users.
The company said its electric motorcycles can travel up to 120 kilometres on a single full charge, making them suitable for daily transport and business operations. It also noted that every customer receives a complimentary test ride together with practical training before taking delivery of the motorcycle.
KENBO said the company is working to expand access to reliable transport solutions while strengthening its presence in Kenya's growing mobility market.
Paint manufacturer Hermosa Paints said the exhibition is providing an opportunity to guide customers in selecting products that best suit their projects and the coastal environment.
"Our main aim is to give the best in quality, service and workmanship because the biggest challenge in the paint industry is getting the right product for the right place. We are here to bridge that gap and connect with painters, contractors and customers. We first understand the customer's needs before recommending products. Based on the coastal climate, we offer products that provide durability at favourable prices." Paint trainer Robert Muchiri stressed.
Regional Sales Manager Halima Kimbio said the company was also introducing products developed to withstand the Coast's weather conditions.
"We are here so that people in Mombasa can see products made using modern technology while considering the weather at the Coast. These paints are designed to last long. We also offer flooring solutions, including our self-levelling epoxy floor paint, which has been tested and proven. Visitors can enjoy extra discounts and free delivery to their sites during the festival."
Health beverage manufacturer Vida Energy, operating under Aryuv Agencies, said the expo has created an opportunity to introduce healthier beverage choices to more consumers while expanding its customer base.
The company said each can of Vida Energy contains 1,000 milligrams of vitamin C, while the Vida Zero range has zero colouring and zero calories for health-conscious consumers. It added that taking part in the festival is helping increase product awareness, grow sales and educate consumers about healthier drink alternatives.
Renewable energy company Sun King is also using the event to promote clean energy technologies and encourage more households and businesses to adopt off-grid power solutions.
Regional Inverter Lead Gladwell Mbatia said the company is showcasing its products as part of efforts to support the global transition towards renewable energy.
New KCC is also participating in the exhibition by displaying its dairy products alongside some of its latest innovations.
Acting Head of Marketing Lilian Were said the company continues to invest in quality and product development to meet changing consumer needs.
"KCC is the oldest and largest dairy processor in East and Central Africa. We are known for quality, innovation and a wide range of products. We recently launched lactose-free milk and also produce camel milk powder, making us the only processor offering that product. During the festival, customers will enjoy discounted prices across our products."
Beyond promoting business, organisers said the festival is helping strengthen social ties by bringing together communities including the Somali, Mijikenda, Kamba and other groups living along the Coast through shared cultural experiences, food and enterprise.
They said the event continues to create opportunities for businesses while positioning Mombasa as a city capable of hosting major business and cultural events that support tourism, trade and investment.
As the festival continues through July 11, organisers expect it to leave lasting economic and social benefits for businesses, residents and the wider Coast region.