Tell us about your background. Where are you from? What brought you to Mpala? Where have you previously studied or conducted research?

I am from Laikipia County, Kenya, and I hold education in Wildlife Management from the Wildlife Research and Training Institute. My passion for conservation led me to work with organizations such as Ewaso Lions, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Ol Jogi Conservancy, and Mt Kenya Wildlife Conservancy , where I focused on wildlife monitoring, human-wildlife conflict mitigation, and community engagement. I was drawn to Mpala because of its strong reputation in innovative conservation research and the opportunity it offers to work alongside scientists and local communities in developing practical solutions to environmental challenges.

What projects are you currently working on at Mpala? What are your research goals?

At Mpala, I am currently involved in a research project focused on field-testing acoustic deterrents to reduce human-wildlife conflict, particularly involving elephants and large carnivores. We are deploying programmable solar-powered speaker units in Laikipia’s pastoral and farming communities to test their effectiveness in deterring wildlife from high-conflict zones. My research goals include evaluating behavior change in wildlife in response to acoustic cues, reducing crop and livestock loss, and eventually applying these tools in community areas to mitigate Human Wildlife Conflict. I aim to contribute to evidence-based, community-centered conservation solutions that can be scaled regionally.

What is one of your favorite things about working at Mpala?

One of my favorite things about working at Mpala is the collaborative and multicultural environment. I’ve really enjoyed the chance to interact with international researchers and students, sharing meals, ideas, and even evening sundowners after long field days. These informal moments have led to valuable conversations and friendships. A highlight for me was helping a team deploy acoustic deterrents while exchanging ideas with engineers and ecologists from different countries. It’s inspiring to be part of a place where science, culture, and community all come together.

What impact do you believe your time at Mpala will have on your professional career?

I believe my time at Mpala will greatly shape my professional growth. Working alongside experienced scientists and conservationists strengthens my research skills, especially in human-wildlife conflict mitigation, and conservation technology. The exposure to interdisciplinary projects will expand my perspective and build my confidence in leading fieldwork. I believe the experience and networks I will gain here will open doors for future opportunities in conservation research, community-based conservation, and even postgraduate studies.