The town of Malindi is probably the oldest town in Kenya, with a history spanning two millennia. Early records place the establishment of the town in the early first century. Its original site was Mambrui, at the mouth of the Sabaki River. The meaning of the name “Malindi” is not clear. Some say that the name is Swahili for Mali Ndi, meaning a lot of wealth. Others claim that Malindi means ‘holes’ referring to the caves found along the coastline. The town was also fondly called Malindi Mtama, after the sorghum that was produced in large quantities. Initially it was a port of call for travelers sailing along the coast. It later became an independent Islamic town, serving as a center for the Muslim community on the Kenyan coast. The Portuguese took it over in the 16th century and ruled it for 200 years until they were overthrown by the Sultan of Oman and Zanzibar. In the 19th century, however, it fell into the hands of the British.
About Malindi
The city of Malindi is probably the oldest city in Kenya, with a history spanning two millennia. Early documents place the city’s founding at the beginning of the first century. Its original site was Mambrui, at the mouth of the Sabaki River. The meaning of the name “Malindi” is unclear. Some say the name is Swahili for Mali Ndi, meaning a lot of wealth. Others claim that Malindi means ‘holes’ referring to the caves found along the coast. The town was also affectionately called Malindi Mtama, after the sorghum that was produced in large quantities.
Initially it was a port of call for travelers sailing along the coast. It later became an independent Islamic town, serving as a center for the Muslim community on the Kenyan coast. The Portuguese took it over in the 16th century and ruled it for 200 years until they were overthrown by the Sultan of Oman and Zanzibar. In the 19th century, however, it fell into the hands of the British.
Local government
According to the 2019 population census, the Malindi division has a population of 333,226 occupying some 2,263 square kilometers. However, the town has a population of 119,859. Of these, about 69.8% are 35 years old or under. The main economic activities include subsistence farming, palm brewing, fishing, hawking, tourism, salt mining, etc.
Things to do in Malindi
Malindi is a renowned tourist destination. It boasts of historical sites such as Vasco da Gama’s pillar in the city and the ruins of Gedi towards the south. Being a coastal city, it also has a serene coastline with rare species of sea turtles and rich marine life. Further south, it is close to the Arabuko Sokoke Forest which is teeming with beautiful flora and fauna.
