Kenya’s First Adaptive Surf Therapy Program Launches for PTSD Survivors

The Ocean Healing Initiative—Kenya’s first surf-based therapy program for trauma survivors—launched in Diani on July 7, 2025, partnering psychologists, lifeguards, and ex-military personnel. Designed for veterans, GBV survivors, and youth from conflict-affected areas (e.g., Mandera, West Pokot), the 8-week program uses surf instruction to rebuild confidence, mindfulness, and peer support. Early results: 73% of 60 participants showed reduced PTSD symptoms (per MoH assessment). Funded by USAID’s *Resilient Communities* grant and the Diani Surf Club, it trained 15 certified adaptive surf coaches—50% women. Participant Jane Wanjiru, a survivor of the 2022 Garissa attack, said: The ocean doesn’t judge. It just holds you. Plans are underway to expand to Malindi and Lamu in 2026.