ABOUT OUR PROJECT
Mashujaa wa Bahari is a marine conservation project using art to bridge the knowledge gap in coastal communities regarding marine ecosystems.
OUR STORY
Founded in 2023 by Purity Mutua, Mashujaa wa Bahari is a marine conservation project seed-funded by the National Geographic Society and The Nature Conservancy.
It aims to improve ocean literacy in Kenyan communities, enhancing understanding of the Indian Ocean's ecological and socioeconomic importance.
The initiative involves grassroots outreach and citizen science, engaging various stakeholders including students, youth, women's groups, and community in ocean education and conservation efforts.
By combining scientific learning with community action, MWB seeks to protect critical marine habitats and foster an ocean-literate generation to ensure sustainable coastal futures for Kenya.
Since the inception of MWB, Purity Mutua has been nominated for the 2024 National Geographic Young Explorer Award and in 2025, Mashujaa wa Bahari received the True Blue Fellowship Award from the Bow Seat Ocean Awareness Program in recognition of the project’s community-centered marine conservation.
The project has implemented its activities primarily in Vipingo, Kilifi County, through collaborations with local conservation partners including the Kuruwitu Conservation and Welfare Association and Oceans Alive Kenya.
These partnerships strengthen community engagement, enhance ecological monitoring, and expand the project’s impact along the Kenyan coastline.
WORD FROM THE FOUNDER
Habari,
This journey has been a thrilling, exciting, and deeply personal turning point for me. When I founded Mashujaa wa Bahari in 2023, I wanted to do things differently. I wanted to move away from the rigid ways we usually talk about the environment and instead create a space where people can authentically embrace and find joy in the ocean and everything about it. It was about sparking a curiosity that makes you want to protect the Ocean not because you have to, but because you’ve fallen in love with it.
I have grown so much as a founder along the way, learning that the most important part of conservation is simply starting where you are. As I often say:
Sometimes, fighting for the planet means doing it afraid, doing it unknown, redoing it, unlearning and taking everything in stride; the world doesn’t wait for the perfect, nor the bold, but those who care enough to work through imperfections to get things done.
MWB has come a long way, but we are just getting started. I am so hopeful as we expand this project into something even better, bringing more people into this circle of care and curiosity. Together, we are proving that anyone, anywhere, can be an Ocean Hero (Shujaa wa Bahari) no matter who you are and where you’re from.
MISSION & VISION
OUR MISSION
Inspiring a new generation of Ocean Heroes to embrace, understand, and protect our oceans through creative, hands-on conservation and effective ocean literacy.
OUR VISION
To become Africa’s leading youth-driven movement for marine conservation and creative ocean literacy.
OUR OBJECTIVES
How we're working to achieve our mission through concrete goals.
01
EDUCATION
Educate coastal communities, particularly youth, on marine biodiversity and conservation through engaging and accessible programs.
02
ART AS COMMUNICATION
Use art as a medium to communicate complex marine conservation topics in a relatable and engaging way that resonates with diverse audiences.
03
ONLINE GALLERY
Establish an online art gallery showcasing marine-inspired artworks to raise awareness and generate funding for conservation efforts.
04
COLLABORATIONS
Facilitate collaborations between artists, conservationists, and local stakeholders to promote sustainable marine conservation practices.
05
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Conduct exhibitions, workshops, and outreach programs to enhance public engagement with marine conservation issues.
06
SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES
Promote sustainable interactions with marine ecosystems among coastal communities through practical education and alternatives.
MEET THE TEAM
The passionate individuals behind Mashujaa wa Bahari.
Purity Mutua
Founder & Project Lead
Andrian Kahuthu
Programs & Logistics Coordinator
Sonali Chavda
Organising Committee Member
Jesse Makalusi
Organising Committee Member
Marvin Ojulong
Organising Committee Member
Marion Yego
Organising Committee Member