# Mombasa

> city in Kenya

**Wikidata**: [Q225641](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q225641)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mombasa)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/mombasa

## Summary

Mombasa is a city in Kenya, established in 1593 [1]. It has an area of 294.7  and an elevation of 50 . The head of government is Abdulsamad Shariff Nassir [2]. The city operates in the UTC+03:00 time zone .

## Summary
Mombasa is a city in Kenya, serving as a major port city and the capital of Mombasa County. Founded in 1593 by the Portuguese, it has a rich history as a key trading hub in East Africa, with historical ties to the Portuguese Empire and later British colonial rule. Today, it is a bustling urban center with a population of approximately 1.2 million people, known for its coastal location, cultural diversity, and strategic importance in Kenya's economy.

## Key Facts
- **Classification**: Large human settlement, city, and port city.
- **Area**: 294.7 square kilometers.
- **Coordinates**: Latitude -4.05, Longitude 39.666667.
- **Elevation**: 50 meters above sea level.
- **Population**:
  - 1,300,000 (2014)
  - 1,200,000 (2016)
  - 1,208,333 (2019, preferred)
  - 939,370 (2009)
  - 665,018 (1999)
  - 461,753 (1989)
  - 341,148 (1979)
  - 247,073 (1969)
- **Inception**: 1593 (founded by the Portuguese).
- **Timezone**: UTC+03:00.
- **Postal Code**: 80100.
- **Official Languages**: Swahili, English.
- **Local Dialing Code**: 041.
- **Country**: Kenya (since 1963-12-12).
- **Historical Countries**: Portuguese Empire (1593–1698, 1728–1729).
- **Capital of**: East Africa Protectorate (historical), Mombasa County (current).
- **Member of**: Organization of World Heritage Cities.
- **Significant Event**: Siege of Mombasa.
- **UN/LOCODE**: KEMBA.
- **WOEID**: 1528335.
- **Geonames ID**: 186301.
- **GND ID**: 4040023-2.
- **FAST ID**: 1205191.
- **VIAF ID**: 125477296.
- **MusicBrainz Area ID**: 0782e67a-4326-41e3-a49c-7db270efd87a.
- **Wikipedia Title**: Mombasa.
- **Wikipedia Languages**: 45 languages (af, ar, arz, ast, az, azb, be, be_x_old, bg, bn, br, ca, ceb, commons, cs, cy, da, de, diq, el, en, eo, es, et, eu, fa, fi, fr, fy, gl, gn, ha, he, hi, hr, ht, hu, hy, ia, iba, id, ie, io, is, it, ja, ka, ki, kk, knc, ko, la, ln, lt, lv, mad, mdf, mg, mi, mk, mn, mr, ms, mzn, nds, nl, nn, no, nso, os, pap, pl, ps, pt, ro, ru, sat, simple, sk, sl, sn, so, sq, sr, sv, sw, ta, th, tl, tr, tum, uk, ur, uz, vec, vep, vi, war, wuu, yo, zh, zh_yue, zu).
- **Aliases**: Manbasa, Kisiwa Cha Mvita, Monbasa, Mombassa, 蒙巴薩, 慢巴撒, 蒙巴萨市, 慢八撒, Момбас, Mombasa, مُنْبَاسَة, منبسة, مومباسا.
- **Demonym**: مُنْبَاسِيٌّ.
- **Head of Government**: Abdulsamad Shariff Nassir (since 2022).
- **Website**: [http://www.mombasa.go.ke/](http://www.mombasa.go.ke/).
- **Social Media**:
  - Twitter: @MombasaCountyKe
  - Facebook: MombasaCountyKe
  - Instagram: @mombasacounty_001.
- **Images**:
  - Downtown: [https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/Downtown_Mombasa.jpg](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/Downtown_Mombasa.jpg).
  - Aerial View: [https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/Mombasa-Nasa-ISS_(cropped).jpg](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/Mombasa-Nasa-ISS_(cropped).jpg).
  - Nighttime View: [https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/Mombasa_night.jpg](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/Mombasa_night.jpg).
  - Flag: [https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/Mombasa_flag.png](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/Mombasa_flag.png).
  - Coat of Arms: [https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/Mombasa_County_Coat_of_Arms.png](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/Mombasa_County_Coat_of_Arms.png).
  - Locator Map: [https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/Mombasa_County_in_Kenya.svg](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/Mombasa_County_in_Kenya.svg).
- **Twinned Administrative Bodies**: Seattle (1981), Long Beach (2007), Fuzhou (2008-05-19), Honolulu County (2000-08-09), Durban (2012), Honolulu, Bergen, Lianyungang.
- **Described by Sources**: New Encyclopedic Dictionary, The Nuttall Encyclopædia, Azerbaijani Soviet Encyclopedia, Great Soviet Encyclopedia (1926–1947), Encyclopædia Britannica 11th edition.

## FAQs
**What is the population of Mombasa?**
Mombasa has a population of approximately 1.2 million people, with historical records showing fluctuations from 247,073 in 1969 to 1,300,000 in 2014.

**When was Mombasa founded?**
Mombasa was founded in 1593 by the Portuguese, making it one of the oldest cities in East Africa.

**What is the timezone of Mombasa?**
Mombasa operates on UTC+03:00, aligning with East Africa Time.

**What languages are officially spoken in Mombasa?**
The official languages of Mombasa are Swahili and English.

**What is the postal code of Mombasa?**
The postal code for Mombasa is 80100.

**What is the area of Mombasa?**
Mombasa covers an area of 294.7 square kilometers.

**What is the elevation of Mombasa?**
Mombasa is located at an elevation of 50 meters above sea level.

**What is the local dialing code for Mombasa?**
The local dialing code for Mombasa is 041.

**What is the current head of government of Mombasa?**
The current head of government of Mombasa is Abdulsamad Shariff Nassir, serving since 2022.

**What organizations is Mombasa a member of?**
Mombasa is a member of the Organization of World Heritage Cities.

## Why It Matters
Mombasa holds significant historical and economic importance in Kenya. As a major port city, it has served as a key trading hub for centuries, facilitating commerce between Africa, Asia, and Europe. Its strategic coastal location has made it a vital link in regional and international trade networks. Additionally, Mombasa has played a crucial role in Kenya's colonial history, transitioning from Portuguese to British rule and later becoming a part of independent Kenya. Today, it remains a dynamic urban center, contributing to Kenya's economy through its port activities, tourism, and cultural heritage. The city's rich history and diverse population make it a unique and culturally significant location in East Africa.

## Notable For
- **Historical Significance**: One of the oldest cities in East Africa, founded in 1593 by the Portuguese.
- **Port City Status**: Serves as a major port, facilitating trade between Africa, Asia, and Europe.
- **Cultural Diversity**: Home to a diverse population with a rich cultural heritage.
- **Economic Contribution**: Plays a crucial role in Kenya's economy through trade, tourism, and port activities.
- **Heritage Status**: Recognized as a member of the Organization of World Heritage Cities.
- **Strategic Location**: Situated on the Indian Ocean, providing access to global trade routes.
- **Historical Events**: Witnessed significant events such as the Siege of Mombasa.
- **Administrative Role**: Serves as the capital of Mombasa County and has historical ties to the East Africa Protectorate.
- **Urban Development**: Known for its bustling urban center and coastal infrastructure.
- **Social Media Presence**: Actively engages with the public through platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

## Body
### History
Mombasa was founded in 1593 by the Portuguese, making it one of the oldest cities in East Africa. Initially under Portuguese rule, it later came under British control in 1895. The city has a rich history as a key trading hub, facilitating commerce between Africa, Asia, and Europe. Mombasa has witnessed significant historical events, including the Siege of Mombasa, which added to its strategic importance.

### Geography
Mombasa is located at coordinates -4.05 latitude and 39.666667 longitude, covering an area of 294.7 square kilometers. The city is situated at an elevation of 50 meters above sea level, providing a strategic coastal location on the Indian Ocean. This geographical positioning has made Mombasa a vital port city, facilitating trade and commerce.

### Demographics
Mombasa has a diverse population, with historical records showing fluctuations in population numbers. The city's population has grown significantly over the years, reaching approximately 1.2 million people. The official languages of Mombasa are Swahili and English, reflecting its cultural diversity.

### Economy
Mombasa plays a crucial role in Kenya's economy through its port activities, tourism, and cultural heritage. As a major port city, it serves as a key link in regional and international trade networks. The city's strategic location on the Indian Ocean provides access to global trade routes, contributing to its economic significance.

### Administration
Mombasa serves as the capital of Mombasa County and has historical ties to the East Africa Protectorate. The current head of government of Mombasa is Abdulsamad Shariff Nassir, serving since 2022. The city is governed by a local administration, with a postal code of 80100 and a local dialing code of 041.

### Culture and Heritage
Mombasa is known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse population. The city has a significant historical and cultural significance, with a long history of trade and commerce. Mombasa is recognized as a member of the Organization of World Heritage Cities, highlighting its cultural and historical importance.

### Infrastructure
Mombasa is equipped with modern infrastructure, including a major port, transportation networks, and urban development projects. The city's strategic location and coastal infrastructure make it a key player in Kenya's economic landscape.

### Social Media and Communication
Mombasa actively engages with the public through various social media platforms, including Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. The city's official website, [http://www.mombasa.go.ke/](http://www.mombasa.go.ke/), provides additional information and services to residents and visitors.

### Images and Visual Representation
Mombasa is visually represented through various images, including a downtown view, aerial view, nighttime view, flag, coat of arms, and locator map. These images provide a comprehensive visual representation of the city's landscape and cultural significance.

### Twinning Relationships
Mombasa has established twinning relationships with several cities and administrative bodies, including Seattle, Long Beach, Fuzhou, Honolulu County, Durban, Honolulu, Bergen, and Lianyungang. These partnerships highlight Mombasa's global connections and cultural exchanges.

### Described by Sources
Mombasa has been described by various sources, including the New Encyclopedic Dictionary, The Nuttall Encyclopædia, Azerbaijani Soviet Encyclopedia, Great Soviet Encyclopedia (1926–1947), and Encyclopædia Britannica 11th edition. These descriptions highlight the city's historical and cultural significance.

### Wikipedia and Online Presence
Mombasa has a significant online presence, with Wikipedia articles available in 45 languages. The city's Wikipedia page provides detailed information and resources for residents and visitors. Additionally, Mombasa has a strong presence on social media platforms, engaging with the public and sharing updates and information.

## References

1. [Source](https://web.mombasa.go.ke/)
2. archINFORM
3. [Source](http://www.fuzhou.gov.cn/zgfzzt/zjrc/gjyhcs/202201/P020220117351044590058.pdf)
4. [Source](https://www4.honolulu.gov/docushare/dsweb/Get/Document-113525/00-148.pdf)
5. [Source](http://www.durban.gov.za/City_Services/IGR/sistercities/Documents/mombasa.pdf)
6. Virtual International Authority File
7. BnF authorities
8. [Source](https://www.ovpm.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/liste-villes-en-regle-pour-page-web12-03-2024.pdf)
9. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
10. MusicBrainz
11. Flickr Shapefiles Public Dataset 2.0
12. GeoNames
13. BBC Things
14. [Source](https://service.unece.org/trade/locode/ke.htm)
15. Treccani's Enciclopedia on line
16. Quora
17. Enciclopedia Treccani
18. [archINFORM](https://www.archinform.net/service/wd_aiort.php)
19. Dizionario di Storia
20. [Source](https://islamansiklopedisi.org.tr/mombasa)
21. museum-digital