The Giriama, also spelled Giryama, are the largest subtribe in the Mijikenda group of people. They live on the Kenyan coast between Kilifi and Malindi. Like the other eight subtribes in the Mijikenda group, they migrated to Kenya in the 1500s from the Singwaya area of Somalia. The Giriama people, once important traders, are today mainly farmers and pastoralists. They live on homesteads called shambas. Their dome-shaped huts are grass thatched. The Giriama have a strong tribal identity and cultural heritage. The close-knit clan is governed by a council of male elders. Age determines role and standing within the clan. Most Giriama practice a mix Christian, Muslim and traditional beliefs that include magic and spirits of the dead.