Kaskazi Environmental Alliance Holds Week of Events to Highlight Ecology of East African Coast

Local nonprofit organization raises awareness of the environmental issues facing the region through several events in the first week of October

San Diego, CA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 09/03/2015 -- The Kaskazi Environmental Alliance, a California-based nonprofit organization that aims to increase the awareness, stewardship and conservation of East Africa's coastal resources, will hold a series of events the week of October 1-4.

The events, which will take place in San Diego and at the Ocean Institute in Dana Point, will feature educational opportunities, keynote speakers, panel discussions, live performances and more. Through these efforts, the KEA and its partners hope to boost awareness of the environmental issues facing the East African coast and raise much-needed funds to support marine science education programs in the region.

"We are thrilled to be able to hold this series of events to highlight some of the very important issues in the East African coastal region and share them with the community," said Mahmoud Khamis Jillo, president of the KEA. "This is a great opportunity for public officials, business leaders and other community members to learn about how we can all take steps to assist conservation efforts that restore the region's diverse marine and coastal environments."

The week begins with the KEA Dhow Festival USA 2015, taking place Friday, October 2 at the Maritime Museum of San Diego. Attendees will be swept up in centuries-old East African culture and have the opportunity to view "The Mtepe 'Shungwaya' Sails Again: Tribute Event to the Boat-Builders of Lamu," a documentary making its world premiere. There will also be live performances featuring the taarab music of East Africa, along with African drummers and dancers.

On Saturday, October 3, the Harambee Community Celebration & Award Ceremony will feature the presentation of the Kiti Cha Enzi (Chair of Power) Award, along with live performances of taarab music. This event, to be held at the Speckles Pavilion in San Diego's Balboa Park, is free and open to the public.

Then, on Sunday, October 4, the Africa USA Ocean Celebration at the Ocean Institute in Dana Point will feature keynote speaker Dr. Carl Safina, a marine ecologist and host of "Saving the Ocean" on PBS. There will also be a panel discussion and a photographic exhibit featuring dhows, which are traditional vessels used up and down the East African coast.

"Dr. Safina is a world-renowned ecologist who is one of the world's top experts on marine life and conservation," said Jillo. "It is an honor to have him at our Sunday event and lead what is sure to be an insightful discussion."

For more information on these events, including times and locations, visit http://www.keainc.org

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/kaskazi-environmental-alliance-holds-week-of-events-to-highlight-ecology-of-east-african-coast-622301.htm