My industrial attachment at Laikipia Wildlife Forum (LWF) was a life-shaping experience that deepened my understanding of the intricate relationship between conservation and community development. As a Bachelor of Science student in Community Development at Laikipia University, I was privileged to be part of an organization that not only protects natural ecosystems but also empowers the communities that depend on them.
Throughout the attachment period, I was actively involved in conservation education, a core component of LWF’s outreach efforts. This role allowed me to visit several primary schools, where we engaged learners in interactive sessions on environmental awareness through conservation education. We covered essential topics such as wildlife conservation, waste management, and also engaged in tree planting activities. We also visited several school such as Doldol Boys, in collaboration with Dedan Kimathi Foundation. The curiosity and enthusiasm of the learners we interacted with was incredibly inspiring, affirming that early education plays a powerful role in nurturing responsible and environmentally conscious generations.
I participated in water quality assessment, which helped monitor and evaluate the health of local water sources crucial for drinking, farming and livestock. This taught me how human practices such as poor waste disposal contribute to pollution, impacting not only ecosystems but also community well-being and livelihoods. This experience highlighted the urgent need for improved water governance, community sensitization and practical interventions to protect our shared resource.
Additionally, my involvement in World Environmental Day and the 17th Community Conservation Day connected me to a broader global environmental change movement, reinforcing that local actions contribute to global change. During my attachment, I witnessed conservation challenges including climate pressures and habitat loss, but also the hope and resilience of communities ready to protect their environment with empowerment and support. This experience enhanced my skills in teamwork and environmental education, solidifying my belief that actual change begins at the grassroots level. I am now committed to a career where community empowerment and conservation are integrated, understanding that one cannot thrive without the other.
