Tell us about your background.
I am from Segera, Laikipia County, Kenya, and I am deeply passionate about wildlife conservation and research, with a particular focus on large carnivore biology and primatology. Joining Uhifadhi wa Chui and collaborating with Mpala provided an incredible opportunity to contribute to leopard conservation efforts, particularly by studying their population status, behavior, and fostering coexistence with local communities. I hold an MSc in Biology of Conservation from the University of Nairobi, Kenya, where my thesis explored the fascinating interactions between leopards and olive baboons. My research experience encompasses leopard-baboon interactions, including their spatiotemporal activity patterns, sleeping site selection by baboons, and leopard behavior at these sites, to better understand the dynamics between these species in shared habitats. Previously, I volunteered on lion-prey interactions and have contributed significantly to primate research. This includes studying olive baboons in Laikipia, the Tana River mangabey and Tana River red colobus in Tana River, and De Brazza’s monkeys in Samburu and Kitale. Notably, I participated in the National Wildlife Census 2021, focusing on primates in the lower Tana River region. This diverse body of work reflects my commitment to advancing research that supports the conservation of Kenya’s rich biodiversity.
What projects are you currently working on at Mpala? What are your research goals?
As the coordinator of the Uhifadhi wa Chui (Leopard Conservation) program under San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, I am currently focused on maintaining long-term leopard camera traps to monitor their population abundance and gain valuable insights into their behavior. Starting in January 2025, my aim is to help conduct a rapid leopard assessment across the larger Laikipia region to provide comprehensive large-scale population estimates. In collaboration with KWS, my primary goal for 2025 is to initiate a leopard collaring project in key areas, including Mpala, Loisaba, Mugie, and neighboring communities. This research will explore critical aspects such as space ecology, livestock depredation, and community attitudes and perceptions toward leopards. These efforts are integral to developing effective conservation strategies and will form the foundation of my PhD research. My broader objective is to identify innovative solutions that promote coexistence between leopards and human communities, ensuring the long-term survival of this iconic species.
What is one of your favorite things about working at Mpala?
One of my favorite things about working at Mpala is the opportunity to meet and collaborate with a diverse group of people, upcoming researchers, senior scientists, and students alike. Sharing experiences and exchanging ideas with such a dynamic community has been incredibly enriching. As a young researcher, Mpala provides a unique environment where one can learn, work, and grow. The openness to new ideas and the supportive network makes it an ideal space to refine skills and expand knowledge. I’ve had the privilege of engaging in insightful conversations and gaining practical tips from seasoned researchers, which have significantly shaped my approach to conservation work.
What impact do you believe your time at Mpala will have on your professional career?
My time at Mpala is proving to be vital for my professional career. The exposure to hands-on conservation work, particularly through the Uhifadhi wa Chui program, has enhanced my research and project management skills. Collaborating with experts and engaging with diverse stakeholders has strengthened my ability to design and implement effective conservation strategies. This experience is also preparing me for my PhD journey, where I plan to delve deeper into leopard behavior, space ecology, and human-wildlife coexistence. Beyond academic growth, working at Mpala has nurtured my leadership and networking abilities, equipping me to contribute more significantly to wildlife conservation on a broader scale. Mpala is not just shaping my career; it’s solidifying my role as a dedicated conservation biologist committed to making a meaningful impact in protecting Kenya’s biodiversity.