Ukrainian City Odesa Extends Its Cooperative Efforts In Kenya After Successful Mombasa Partnership

• Mombasa chose Odesa as a sister city five years ago, marking the beginning of a successful partnership story
• For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, a charter program from Ukraine to Mombasa allowed only Ukrainian tourists to the Kenyan coast
• The successful partnership between Odesa and Mombasa informed the need to extend the collaboration in Kenya

Odesa, a Ukrainian city internationally known for its economic strength in transport and foreign trade, has extended its collaborative efforts in Kenya.

Five years ago, Kenya's coastal city, Mombasa, chose Odesa as a sister city, marking the beginning of a successful partnership story.

For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, when local movement had been restricted, a charter program from Ukraine to Mombasa allowed only Ukrainian tourists into the Kenyan coast, boosting the then-struggling sector.

Odesa expanding in Kenya

The successful partnership between Odesa and Mombasa informed the need to extend the collaboration in Kenya.

In Odesa's efforts to expand its presence and strengthen economic ties with Kenya, a deputy major from the city, Pavlo Vugelman, visited Nairobi, where he launched a promotion office.

In the event held at Ngong Road on Friday, January 19, invited guests, including Kenyan and Ukrainian diplomats, officials, business and art delegates were introduced to the photo exhibition “Ways to Victory” by Boris Bukhman, a famous photographer from Odesa.

This was to provide a visual narrative of shared experiences and resilience in the face of mystery.

It is worth noting that Odesa has remained resilient, engaging in trade and organising charity events despite the ongoing, widely condemned Russia's war against Ukraine. The events are aimed at garnering international support.

To express gratitude to Kenya for its support, Odesa's official delegation will visit Mombasa and the Coast General Hospital, where they will meet its fellow sister cities delegation from Yokohama, Japan.

It is worth noting that Yokohama city council has donated Odesa a mobile micro-hospital, the same as Mombasa and Ukrainian doctors use to study the operation.

In return for the good gesture, Kenya will next week host a group of Odesa kids on a charity tour organised by local hoteliers and service providers.

The children will tour Nakuru, Naivasha, Tsavo, Mombasa, Diani and Nairobi. The tour aims to provide a two-week respite for children affected by continuous bombing in Odesa.