The Marwa Codi Project: Connect with Locals on Kenya’s South Coast

Diani Beach is renowned for its pristine white sands, turquoise Indian Ocean waters, and laid-back vibe, making it a dream destination for relaxation and adventure. But beyond the beach resorts and water sports lies a richer layer of Kenya’s coastal heritage: the vibrant traditions of the Giriama people, one of the Mijikenda ethnic groups native to the South Coast. For travelers seeking authentic, impactful experiences, Adventure Expeditions is proud to offer visits to the Marwa Codi Project in nearby Ukunda, a community-based initiative that blends deep cultural exchange with powerful social good.

Discovering Giriama Traditions in a Living Village

The Marwa Codi Project (also referred to as Marwa Codi) opens the doors to a local Giriama village, inviting guests to step into the heart of everyday life along Kenya’s South Coast. This is not a staged performance. It is a genuine welcome into the community, where respect and curiosity guide every interaction.

One of the highlights is meeting a traditional healer, known locally as a mganga or bush doctor. Drawing on generations of knowledge, he uses herbal remedies from the surrounding bush and spiritual insights to address physical ailments, emotional challenges, and spiritual imbalances. Guests learn about these time-honored practices, the plants involved, and the worldview that sees health as harmony between body, mind, and spirit. For those comfortable, a personal consultation offers a rare glimpse into this ancient form of healing.

In some villages, spiritual practices, sometimes described as protective witchcraft in local terms, remain integral to community life. Practitioners explain their role in safeguarding against negative energies, restoring balance, and supporting individuals through life’s difficulties. These conversations provide thoughtful insights into beliefs that continue to shape Giriama identity amid modern influences.

Hands-On Cultural Exchange and Shared Meals

The experience turns interactive as guests join village women in everyday activities. Harvesting cassava from the fields, for instance, leads into learning traditional preparation methods for a classic Kenyan dish. The day culminates in a communal lunch, where everyone eats together using simple, fresh food prepared with local ingredients. This shared meal transforms visitors from observers into participants and cultural exchange happens.

Empowering Teenage Mothers Through Skills and Independence

What makes the Marwa Codi Project truly special is its social impact. 100% of proceeds from guest visits go directly toward supporting teenage mothers in the community, many of whom are survivors of sexual violence or have been affected by the challenges of sex tourism in coastal areas. The project provides psychosocial support alongside practical vocational training in skills like sewing, handicraft production, and small business management. These tools empower the young women to start their own enterprises, gain financial independence, and build brighter futures for themselves and their children.

Complementing the village visits is a charming shop along Diani Beach Road, stocked with handmade items created by these talented women. Vibrant clothing, cushions, bags, and accessories made from colourful African fabrics (including Ankara and recycled materials) showcase their creativity. Visitors can browse, purchase ready-made pieces, or even commission custom items delivered straight to their hotel, a perfect, meaningful souvenir that carries a story of empowerment home.

In an era where authentic travel increasingly means giving back, the Marwa Codi Project stands out as a model of responsible tourism. It preserves and shares Giriama cultural heritage while tackling real social issues, creating benefits that ripple through the community: cultural understanding for visitors, economic opportunities for vulnerable women, and strengthened community ties.

Whether you are lounging on Diani’s shores or exploring further afield with Adventure Expeditions, adding this half-day experience to your itinerary offers something profound, a chance to connect deeply with Kenya’s people and traditions while contributing to positive change.

Ready to go beyond the beach? Contact Adventure Expeditions to include the Marwa Codi Project in your South Coast adventure. It is more than a visit. It is a step toward a more connected, compassionate way of exploring the world.