For centuries the coast has been important in trade across the Indian Ocean, and ancient ports, such as Lamu, remain as evidence of the early coastal trade cities. Today, Mombasa is the largest coastal city and Kenya's largest and busiest port. It has modern facilities, an oil refinery, and a variety of light industries. The port also serves the landlocked countries of Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi. The long and beautiful white coral sand beaches are the basis of Kenya's coastal tourist industry.
Hotels serve tourists along the entire length of the coast.
Population and Economy Kenya has more than 100 different ethnic groups. This poses a potential problem of communication. Swahili and English have been selected as national languages and most people speak at least one of these as well as their own local language. The people are also divided among many religious groups. African traditional religions are widespread as is Christianity, which was spread by missionary groups in the 19th and early 20th centuries.