Located in the heart of Mombasa, Kenya, the Mombasa tusks, also known as Pembe Mbili, are a well-known tourist attraction and a symbol of the city’s history and culture. The four aluminum tusks, arranged in an M shape, stand over Moi Avenue, a major thoroughfare in the city. While the tusks are a popular destination for tourists visiting Mombasa, they also hold significant cultural and historical significance for the people of Mombasa.
From their construction in 1952 to commemorate the visit of Queen Elizabeth II to the renovations and additions made in 1956 and 2017, the tusks have stood as a testament to Mombasa’s past and a meeting place for its residents. This article will explore the history and cultural significance of the Mombasa tusks and why they are more than just a tourist attraction.
History of the Mombasa Tusks
The Mombasa tusks were originally built in 1952 by the British administration of the Colony and Protectorate of Kenya to commemorate the visit of Queen Elizabeth II to the city. Constructed of wood and canvas, the tusks were erected on Kilindini Road (now Moi Avenue) next to the Mombasa Yachting Club, where the Queen was staying. The tusks quickly became a local attraction, with companies and residents using them for advertising and announcements.
In 1956, the municipal council of Mombasa refurbished the tusks, adding a second set a few meters away from the original monument. The new tusks were made of weather-resistant aluminum and were built to accommodate the expansion of Kilindini Road to two lanes. The refurbishment was also done in anticipation of the visit of Princess Margaret to the region that year.
In 2017, the government of Mombasa County, in partnership with Mombasa Cement Ltd, refurbished the tusks again. As part of the renovations, a model elephant was added to the center of the tusks. The tusks have been repainted several times, including by United States Marines visiting the city.
Cultural Significance of the Mombasa Tusks
The Mombasa tusks hold significant cultural and historical importance for the people of Mombasa, Kenya. In addition to serving as a reminder of the city’s history and the visits of the British royal family, the tusks have become a local meeting place and a symbol of Mombasa’s culture.
The municipal government has placed restrictions on commercialization and advertisement using the tusks, and the National Museums of Kenya organization charges fees for the commercial filming of the monument.
The tusks have become a popular tourist destination, allowing visitors to learn more about Mombasa’s history and take photos of the iconic monument. Overall, the Mombasa tusks are an integral part of the city’s history and culture and are respected and preserved by the people of Mombasa.
The Mombasa Tusks as a Tourist Attraction
The Mombasa tusks are a popular destination for tourists visiting Mombasa, Kenya. In addition to their cultural and historical significance, the tusks offer visitors the opportunity to learn more about Mombasa’s rich history and take photos of the iconic monument. The tusks are a well-known city symbol and are often featured in travel guides and on lists of must-see attractions.
Tourists visiting the tusks can also enjoy the surrounding area, including Moi Avenue and Uhuru Garden, which are located nearby. The tusks are an important part of Mombasa’s tourism industry and attract many visitors yearly. Overall, the Mombasa tusks are an integral part of the city’s history and culture and are respected and preserved by the people of Mombasa.
Conclusion
The Mombasa tusks are more than just a tourist attraction – they symbolize the city’s history and culture and hold significant cultural and historical importance for the people of Mombasa. From their construction in 1952 to commemorate the visit of Queen Elizabeth II, to the renovations and additions made in 1956 and 2017, the tusks have stood as a testament to Mombasa’s past and a meeting place for its residents. While the tusks are a popular destination for tourists visiting the city, they are also an integral part of Mombasa’s history and culture.
