Maisha Marefu supports the fishing community on the Kenyan Coast

Along the shores of Diani Beach lies a vibrant fishing community, deeply rooted in tradition and culture. Home to the Digo and Duruma ethnic groups, as well as other smaller communities, Diani Beach embodies a rich tapestry of coastal life and heritage.

The Digo and Duruma people form the backbone of the Diani community, each contributing their unique perspectives and skills. While the Digo are renowned for their seafaring prowess and deep connection to the ocean, the Duruma are esteemed for their agricultural expertise and intimate knowledge of local flora and fauna.

For generations, the Digo have ventured into the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean, employing traditional fishing methods passed down through the ages. Despite the simplicity of their sailing boats and lines, their bond with the sea remains unwavering.

A stark reality hides beneath their beauty – the pervasive challenge of poverty that grips the residents of Kwale County, where Diani is located.The struggle for economic stability is further compounded by the widespread poverty that plagues Kwale County. Food poverty incidence, measured by the percentage of people spending less than 15 euros per month on food, exceeds 35%. Shockingly, more than half of the county's residents live below the poverty line, struggling to meet even their most basic needs. In this challenging environment, the dream of owning a fishing boat can seem like an unattainable fantasy for many

At Maisha Marefu, we are proud to support this community through our sponsorship of a fishing boat, providing opportunities for sustainable livelihoods and preserving age-old traditions.