The Inspiration
The Kabusha Wellness Retreat is an annual, transformative 3-day immersive gathering that began in 2019. It was born out of a simple but powerful truth — that those who carry the world’s pain also deserve space to rest, breathe, and heal.
250+
6
Years of transformation
Happy Participants
Dr Joy Mbaabu, the Founder of Amani Communities Africa is also the Originator of Kabusha Peace and Wellness Retreat.
In her own words;
"My Inspiration to start Kabusha Peace and Wellness Retreat arose out of years of walking alongside colleagues and friends in peacebuilding, healing, and other care-giving professions.
Over time, I witnessed a recurring pattern - passionate and compassionate people pouring themselves out in service of others, yet neglecting their own need for rest, renewal, and inner peace. Many were tired, weary, and on the verge of burnout , giving from an empty cup, often without realizing it.
Their work called for deep empathy and emotional labor, yet there were few safe, nurturing spaces where they could pause, breathe, and reconnect with themselves and with nature.
Starting Out
I approached a few colleagues in the board and one of them, who is now the Chief Kabusha Ambassador, Ms Milkah Mukami, joined the initiative and brought with her creativity and depth, coming up with brilliant name, KABUSHA, a holistic Zulu name for Rebirth.
In May 2019, the inaugural retreat was held in celebration of Dr. Joy Mbaabu’s 55th birthday. Around this time, Dr. Mbaabu had just welcomed her first and only daughter-in-love, Joy T. Mutethia, who graciously took full responsibility for organizing the event. She planned the retreat meticulously and delivered it with excellence. Beyond its success, she committed to supporting Dr. Mbaabu and her organization in hosting Kabusha Retreats regularly.
Spreading the Light
Dr. Mbaabu’s trusted advisors and co-facilitators—Njeri Kimanthi, Sister Giang Nhuyeng, Lena Le Poullenec, and Winfred Kendi Kamau—later joined in, combining their skills and shared passion for peace and spirituality to deliver a truly remarkable second Kabusha Retreat. Their collective effort established Kabusha as a transformative space for reflection, renewal, and rebirth
Created for leaders, peacebuilders, human rights defenders, and change agents, Kabusha offers a sacred pause from the weight of service — a moment to lay down the burdens of responsibility and reconnect with one’s inner self.
You cannot pour from an empty cup, and that healing the world begins with healing within.
The Evolution
Since 2019, Kabusha has evolved into a safe, nurturing, and deeply transformative experience that meets people where they are — weary, hopeful, and ready to rediscover balance. Each year’s retreat carries a theme that reflects the emotional and collective journey of its participants.
Kabusha for Women
A sacred space designed specifically for women leaders, peacebuilders, and caregivers. This retreat celebrated women’s strength and softness, offering tools for emotional resilience, healing from gendered trauma, and reclaiming joy and rest as acts of courage.
Transforming to Transform Kabusha Wellness Retreat
Tailored for mentors and mentees, this retreat explored how transformation begins within before it can ripple outward. Participants learned to give from fullness, not exhaustion, rediscovering the beauty of mutual care and growth.
Kabusha for Teens
Built on the belief that emotional well-being starts early, this edition nurtured social and emotional skills among teenagers, helping them cultivate empathy, confidence, and purpose. It laid a foundation for healthier, more self-aware generations.
Reviews
Hear from our guests.
Kabusha was a transformative experience that rejuvenated my spirit.
Eva
Nairobi
The retreat helped me reconnect with myself and find inner peace.
Lia
Mombasa