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Lamu Archipelago hosted the inaugural Dhow & Canoe Polo Festival on June 22, 2025—featuring teams playing water polo from traditional *mtumbwi* canoes. Eight teams from Lamu, Pate, and Manda competed, using hand-carved paddles and cork balls. Winners: * Bahari Mazuri * (Beautiful Ocean). Funded by Aga Khan Trust, the event revived maritime skills and boosted eco-tourism. Polo isn’t just grass—it’s waves and teamwork, said organizer Fatuma Ali. UNESCO documented it for cultural safeguarding. The tournament is now annual.