It started in Ahero, Nyando County, in 2021

MARWACODI began in Ahero, Nyando County, in 2021, with a simple desire to make a difference in people's lives. From the beginning, I wanted our work to reach people who were struggling and might not always know where to turn for help — to listen to children, girls, young mothers and women, understand their challenges and find practical ways to support them.

There are children whose education is affected because their families cannot afford everything they need. There are girls who struggle with menstrual health and hygiene. There are young mothers who face judgement because they became mothers earlier than expected. There are women who want to work, support their families and become independent, but lack the skills, equipment or resources to get started.

I wanted MARWACODI to be more than an organization with a name. I wanted it to be a place where people could feel heard, where their difficulties mattered, and where we could work together to find a way forward. Our journey began in Nyando, and as our work developed we extended our services to Kwale County, particularly around Mwanjamba and the Ukunda area. The communities may be different, but our commitment remains the same: to listen, to support, to create opportunities and to treat people with dignity.

The person behind MARWACODI

I am Olivia Osano, the founder and director of MARWACODI Community-Based Organization. This work is very close to my heart because I believe people need to feel that somebody sees them, hears them and cares about what happens to them. Life does not always turn out the way we expect, and it can be difficult to keep going when you feel alone or judged.

My journey with MARWACODI began in Ahero, Nyando County, in 2021. Since then we have continued learning, building relationships and looking for ways to respond to the needs of our communities. Extending our work to Kwale County is another step in that journey.

My dream is to see more children continue with their education, more girls feel supported, more women gain skills and earn an income, and more families have the opportunity to build a better future. I may not have all the answers, but I believe that listening, caring and taking action where we can is a good place to start.

To everyone who has supported MARWACODI, worked alongside us, encouraged us or taken the time to learn about our work — thank you. And to those who are just discovering MARWACODI, welcome. I hope you will join us on this journey.

With gratitude,
Olivia Osano
Founder and Director