Watamu Twasija!
By Mona Ombogo
We are relatively fresh off the 2023 District Conference in Addis Abba, Ethiopia.
I can still taste the injera, smell the coffee and see the ticker tape and sparks lighting up the stage and Rotarians in cultural dress dancing around District Governor Leonard Ithau during his installation.
What a great week we had! It was crowned by the clarion call; Watamu Twasija! Swahili slang for Watamu, Here We Come!
DCA 2024 has officially loaded. The smart ones have booked their tickets, because time flies when it comes to the Rotary year. Before we know it, we will be heading to the Kenyan resort town of Watamu, whether by land, sea, air or rail.
Are you ready? Have you joined team Book Watamu Now? You should. And I’ll give you 10 reasons why.
- Of Great Seas and Sandy Beaches — For me, this is always a place of peace. There is just something about the vastness of the water, that makes me reflect on the unlimited potential and opportunities of life. Fresh ideas. Renewal. Imagine waking up on a DCA morning, looking out your window and seeing the blue of the ocean against the crystalline azure of the sky? Throw in swimming, basking in the sun, walking along the beach, amazing sunrises and sunsets — and jet skiing anyone? Reflective, active and fun.
- Of Hidden Bays — Watamu Bay, Blue Lagoon, Turtle Bay and Garoda Bay; at least four bays protected by the Kenya Wildlife Service because of their teeming marine life. These sites are ideal for snorkeling, deep sea diving and photography. Yes, photography, because who doesn’t like the perfect holiday picture? The bays in Watamu are ranked the third best beaches in Africa, because of their white sands and crystal-clear waters. Personally, I want to do the We Are One Dance challenge along those white beaches.
- Of Ancient Ruins — Hidden treasure, ancient civilizations and the mysterious disappearance of an entire community: Gedi Ruins. Once, a bustling culture thrived here. In fact, it’s thought to be one of the most important sites in the Indian Ocean trade route. A mosque, palace and open area courtyard grace this site. The Mijikenda say the ruins are guarded by the spirits of the ‘Old Ones’, a sacred place of spiritual significance. There is a way tall imposing trees cast shadows around the ruins that makes me think this place was truly magical and still holds treasure yet uncovered. Also, perfect for selfies. Just — be respectful.
I said ten reasons, right? We have seven more to go. So look out for them in our next edition coming in August. In the meantime, what are you waiting for? DCA 2024 is calling and the early bird really, truly does catch the worm. Or in this case, the best deal. Secure your spot now with our level two conference package.
For just USD 200 (Rotarians) or USD 175 (Rotaractors) till 30th July, you get to enjoy not just the glories of Watamu, but the mind-blowing, often life-changing experience of DCA. Register here: dca2024.rotary9212.org
Watamu Twasija! See you there!
