This wasn’t just an exhibition, it was a statement. A bold declaration that Laikipia is ready to lead the way in redefining how tourism and conservation work hand in hand to drive local economies and protect natural heritage.

The Expo featured a rich diversity of participants: from tour operators and hospitality providers to community enterprises, conservancies, cultural groups, and youth innovators. Under the theme “Conservation Meets Commerce,” exhibitors shared ideas, pitched products, and built new partnerships showcasing not only what Laikipia has to offer, but also what it stands for.

Gracing the event as Chief Guest was Madam Leah Njeri, Laikipia County’s Executive Committee Member for Water, Environment,  Natural Resources and Climate Change. She applauded the initiative as a powerful step in aligning environmental stewardship with economic opportunity. Her remarks were echoed by the Chairman of the Board of LTA, Mr. Gilbert Mutembei, who emphasized the importance of telling Laikipia’s story beyond safaris, through culture, innovation, and inclusive tourism experiences.

Ruth Njuguna of Lion Landscapes guides CECM Water, Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change, Leah Njeri through their innovative conservation tools and approaches at their exhibition stand

What made the Expo particularly special was its energy. There was music and performance, exchange and engagement, knowledge-sharing and networking. Booths buzzed with activity as visitors interacted with displays, from wildlife tech tools and astrotourism demos to traditional beekeeping and handmade crafts. Community groups showcased the tangible benefits of conservation-linked enterprise, while hospitality players pitched packages that blend luxury with sustainability.

Expo participants join in the rhythm and color of Maa traditional dance, celebrating Laikipia’s rich cultural heritage and community spirit

The event also attracted significant media coverage, with KTN, KBC, Kameme TV, and other stations highlighting the Expo’s impact. Local-language segments helped carry the message deep into the communities, while digital platforms extended the event’s reach, nationally. On social media, hashtags like #LaikipiaWildlifeandTourismExpo2025 captured the excitement in real time.

The Expo’s success was not only in numbers, though the turnout was strong, with hundreds of attendees flowing through the venue all day, it was in the quality of connections made. Local artisans met potential buyers. Lodges discovered community-led products that align with their sustainability goals. Students engaged researchers on wildlife coexistence technologies.

Looking ahead, LWF and LTA plan to make the Expo an annual fixture, and one that spans multiple days. The goal is to allow even deeper engagement, more storytelling, and expanded participation. We express deep gratitude to all exhibitors, guests, and partners who contributed to the success of this inaugural edition.

As members trickled into the compound, they were welcomed by the ambience and serenity created by this natural environment. To cap it off, they did not have to struggle to know the names of the trees that contributed to this beauty because all the tree species in the compound are now well labelled and described. The learning of species’ names made them busy as they took tea while moving around the compound. Many were so excited to learn the names of trees that they interact with almost daily, yet were unaware of their names.

There was a lot of happiness and anticipation as all LWF staff worked together to ensure everything was in place. The well-erected tents hosting decorated tables and chairs exuded pomp and colour. The accurately positioned banners and registration table gave a feeling of a well-organized celebration. The Disc Jockey (DJ) made sure not to water down all this beauty and effort and crowned it all with heartwarming, themed and very entertaining music.

The meeting began as soon as the Chairman and Board members arrived. As is tradition, we started with a word of prayer followed by self-introductions.  The meeting then followed the usual AGM procedure. However, we cannot write home about this unique AGM without giving the key highlights of the day. We, including the Chairman, were happy to welcome one of our former Executive Directors, Dr. Mordecai Ogada. Mordecai, as he is popularly referred to, is credited for enabling LWF to settle in this compound, having moved from the Nanyuki Airstrip. He was also impressed by the ambience!

Former Executive Director Dr. Mordecai Ogada shares his remarks during the historic AGM, reflecting on LWF’s journey and growth over the years

Another key highlight was by the Chair of the Board on the progress the Forum has made over the past three years. He said that when he and the Executive Director took up leadership, LWF had declared redundancy, with staff at 50% salary reduction, had no reserve funds and was generally a coordinating body/secretariat. This changed in late 2022 when we decided to revert to implementation, and now, we are making an impact, he said. The third highlight was the diversity of members. We had multi-stakeholders, including the County Government, the National Government, Peer NGOs, local CBOs, including Water Resource Users Associations (WRUAs), Community Forest Associations (CFAs), youth and women groups, other conservation groups, tourism sector players, research institutions, community and private conservancies, among others.

As the meeting ended, a relaxed and happy atmosphere could be felt as members mingled and ate their delicious lunch, also served within the compound. It was indeed a first and memorable venue-change for LWF’s AGM!

Shoshin’s key pillars are: Agri Tech, Climate Tech, and Blue Tech, while the technologies they use include IoT and robotics, Artificial Intelligence, and Web3. For LWF, our interest was in Climate Tech as much as we appreciate the nexus among the three ‘Techs.’ To this end, we discussed the three components of Climate Tech, which include Carbon Credits, Human Wildlife Conflict (HWC) Mitigation, and AFR100.

As much as LWF relates to all three, our discussion revolved around our previous and ongoing work, which includes HWC Mitigation and the AFR100 & REDD+ Technology support. We both identified strong alignment in these two spheres. We agreed to explore using HWC mitigation technology to: scout and assess target areas, mobilize local communities, and support capacity building initiatives. It was further agreed that elephant sensors (used in HWC mitigation) will help identify suitable reforestation areas. Ultimately, we both agreed to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and co-develop a concept note focusing on HWC Mitigation, AFR100, and community education around carbon credits.

In April, we participated in a two-day workshop for the Reticulated Giraffe Range Committee. The workshop, which Kenya Wildlife Service organized in partnership with Giraffe Conservation Foundation and San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, aimed to consolidate the successes achieved and build on the foundation of the 2nd edition of the National Recovery and Action Plan for Giraffe 2023- 2027. The workshop brought conservation players within the range of the reticulated giraffes in the various counties, including Laikipia, Wajir, Marsabit, Mandera, Garissa, Isiolo, Samburu and Meru in the Mountain, Eastern and Northern Conservation Areas.

Officially opening the workshop was Senior Assistant Director Madam Lucy Mwita, who called for alignment of strategies towards the conservation of giraffes through research and a multi-stakeholder approach. To achieve the goal of mitigating threats and maintaining a self-sustaining giraffe population with a multi-stakeholder approach to achieve a net-positive population growth by 2027, stakeholders called for collaboration with local communities through Community-based anti-poaching programs.

The stakeholders from the conservation areas gave an overview of the current conservation activities, initiatives and challenges experienced in giraffe conservation. In the Northern Conservation Area, stakeholders noted that poaching was a significant issue and a cross-border challenge, urging the KWS and County Governments to collaborate in monitoring and patrols between Kenya, Ethiopia, and Somalia.

In addition, habitat degradation in the rangelands remains a key challenge towards conservation, as presented in the meeting. The KWS called for resilience in addressing the effects of climate change, including drought and flooding. Invasive species such as Opuntia stricta and Prosopis juliflora were key challenges highlighted in the North and Eastern part of the Reticulated Giraffe range. Key interventions from the LWF, Loisaba Conservancy, and Northern Rangelands Trust included proposed management strategies and efforts to minimize the colonization of giraffe habitats.

Dr. Aminga, KWS veterinary, highlighted the current wildlife diseases affecting reticulated giraffe, including Mange, which mostly occurs during the dry season. The disease causes sores on the giraffes’ mouths and skin. Veterinarians are currently carrying out research to determine whether the disease is endemic to Wajir County. He reinstated the role of veterinarians in responding to wildlife injuries and rescue, calling for adequate support from the stakeholders.

In his presentation, Dr. Muneza from Giraffe Conservation Foundation emphasized Kenya’s unique giraffe taxonomy and heritage, highlighting the milestones made towards their conservation that have led to a 20% increase from 2025. However, stakeholders were urged to harmonize the data on giraffe population and mortality, preferably through a giraffe mortality database, to enhance data recording and track the population of giraffes. Capacity building the rangers and local community scouts through tools and technology, such as Earth Ranger, was a key step towards monitoring and evaluation.

Key outcomes for the workshop were the development of key activities and highlighting challenges that need intervention within each strategic objective outlined in the National Recovery and Action Plan for 2023-2027. Additionally, the stakeholders developed a threat matrix analysis proposing priority activities. Stakeholders agreed to conduct more outreach through conservation education programs and to observe World Giraffe Day, commemorated annually on 21st June.

LWF is proud to have participated and given recommendations to the committee towards enhancing a viable population of giraffes through habitat restoration and conservation education awareness campaigns at schools and communities.

During the August holiday, LWF participated in the annual conservation educators’ workshop organized by our partners, the Northern Kenya Conservation Clubs (NKCC). The workshop brought together representatives from Laikipia North Sub-County, Ministry of Education, Conservation Educators from Loisaba Conservancy and The Peregrine Fund and teachers from 21 schools (both primary and secondary) from Laikipia East and North Constituencies. The three-day training aimed at equipping teachers with skills and practical models of integrating conservation education into the curriculum.

Despite the County being an arid and semi-arid region, schools, with the guidance of environmental club teachers, had made milestones in conserving their environment. In their respective schools, teachers briefly explained their successful models and challenges experienced in their schools. However, amidst the challenges, the teachers had built a lasting connection between the students and the environment. Through the establishment of kitchen gardens to beekeeping, the teachers, with the help of conservation educators and well-wishers, had moulded environmentally resilient students. It was time to refresh and assess the progress of their initiatives at schools and evaluate the importance of conservation education at schools.

Ayub from Northern Kenya Conservation Clubs engages a teacher in the “Which Animal Am I?” game

Through the interactions, teachers and conservation educators were informed about the gaps from different perspectives. From the shared experiences, teachers could borrow ideas from each other to improve their environmental clubs. Key outcomes from the training included the integration of experiential learning as an ideal practical model for conservation education. The teachers highlighted that experiential learning keeps the students motivated and enhances active participation, unlike confined classroom lecturing. The founder of NKCC, Professor Dan Rubenstein, applauded the teachers’ initiatives, emphasizing the connection between the environment and people and wildlife through conservation games such as The Web of Life.

Teachers participate in a group discussion to identify key topics using the NKCC curriculum

To put experiential learning into practice, teachers visited Ol Pejeta Conservancy. During the trip, various aspects were used to create a deeper understanding such as safari bingo, bird watching and wildlife species identification. From this perspective, teachers identified the importance of wildlife conservation and maintaining a healthy ecosystem. To most of the teachers, these was a great experience and created a sense of ownership towards their continued efforts in spreading the conservation message.

In addition, the teachers were introduced to basic tools that are readily available to support and keep the environmental clubs vibrant at school. James from the Laikipia Wildlife Forum explained about Merlin App, a free bird identification app built for experiential learning such as a bird watching session with students. Faith Achieng’ from The Peregrine Fund highlighted the role of birds of prey in the ecosystem, emphasizing the role of citizen science in Conservation Education.

Further, Loisaba Conservancy presented how art and videography can create a deeper understanding of environmental conservation in schools while building courage in the students through showcasing their talents. Mr. Noordin from the Ministry of Education, Laikipia North Sub-County, commended the role of the Conservation Education outreach program through games and competitions, urging stakeholders to collaborate.

Teachers, conservation educators, and partners pose for a photo after a successful training session

We are proud to have had an additional five schools: Dol Dol Boys Secondary School, St. Francis Girls Secondary School, Il Polei Secondary School, Kurum Secondary School, and Daraja Academy, onboarded for the training through our partnership with Northern Kenya Conservation Clubs.

We are committed to ensuring that Conservation Education continues to inspire students to not only conserve the environment but also influence and prepare them for their future careers. To our enabling partners and stakeholders, thank you for your steadfast support.

Over the years, we have enhanced our members’ work through marketing and providing them with skilled labour personnel for the industry. As we stride forward towards championing sustainable tourism, we are keen to align our work with our members’ objectives. We are committed to maximizing the potential of our members as either a key tourist attraction, a reliable tour operator/travel agency, and curating the best hospitality experiences.

In June, we carried out courtesy visits to some of the members in parts of Laikipia, Nyeri, and Meru Counties. We visited some of the newly subscribed members to understand their work and highlight our significance as an association of tourism and hospitality providers. We aimed to determine their operational progress and highlight challenges that required our intervention.

From left: Emmanuel Obuchere of Laikipia Wildlife Forum, Edward Wangechi of Olepangi Farm, and James Njihia of the Laikipia Tourism Association

We noted key challenges including delay in license renewal, which, through our partnership with Tourism Regulatory Authority (TRA), we were able to present to them and provide solutions to our members. This not only safeguards the integrity of our members but also enhances their operational management by fulfilling the legal requirements.

In addition, we awarded certificates of appreciation to the members for their support during the Laikipia Wildlife and Tourism Expo 2025. We also gathered their feedback towards enhancing their visibility through events and linking them with key players in the tourism and hospitality market. Stakeholders called for more collaboration and for access to key tools and technologies to enhance efficiency across various aspects of their work.

We are proud and delighted to have resourceful and determined members keen on promoting destinations and transforming visits into memorable experiences.  We have taken note of the recommendations and areas of improvement to serve you better and create a beneficial platform for your facilities.

James Njihia presents the Laikipia Coffee Table Book to Esiankiki Resort and Spa

Keen on determining how LTA can walk together in your journey of tourism and hospitality? Feel free to reach out to us via email: tourismlaikipia@laikipia.org or call us directly via Telephone: 0726500260.

The workshop, themed “From Science to Youth Action for Sustainable Forestry,” took place from April 28th to 30th at the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) Regional Centre in Kitui. It brought together 20 passionate youth, one from each County, under the African Youth 4 Forests (AY4F) initiative, a powerful collaboration led by the African Forest Forum, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), and KEFRI.

From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was electric with ideas, passion, and shared purpose. We were welcomed with opening remarks from key institutions, setting the stage for what would become a transformative experience. We began with sketch mapping exercises, identifying forest threats and opportunities across Kenya. It was humbling to hear from peers about the challenges they faced and the innovations they were leading in their regions.

The days that followed were a whirlwind of learning and inspiration. We visited KEFRI nurseries, where we learned about sustainable propagation and entrepreneurship. We walked through Melia volkensii plantations, discussing dryland forestry and tree improvement trials. We explored seed production units and agroforestry systems, talking about grafting techniques, bamboo, aloe, and neem as future-ready options. Every site visit sparked new questions and ignited new ideas.

The innovation labs were particularly energizing. In small teams, we brainstormed business models rooted in sustainability. Ideas like the Taka Pay App for waste collection, the Adopt-a-Tree initiative, and using recycled carwash water for nurseries were not just theoretical; they were practical solutions we could take home and start piloting.

What stood out most for me was the sense of shared vision. On the final day, we engaged in policy simulations and advocacy training, building up to the presentation of the Kenya Youth Declaration on Sustainable Forestry. This declaration, co-created by us, will eventually be merged with others from across Africa and presented at COP30 in Brazil. Knowing that our voices will echo in such a global space gave me hope and a renewed sense of duty.

None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of LWF. This experience reaffirmed that our organization does not just talk about empowering youth, it actively creates space for us to grow, lead, and represent. Whether it is through mentorship, opportunities for field learning, or platforms like this, LWF continues to nurture a new generation of conservation leaders.

As I returned home to Laikipia, I brought with me more than just notes and contacts, I carried a vision, refined and inspired by peers from across the Country. I am more determined than ever to turn science into action, ideas into solutions, and dreams into greener, more resilient landscapes.

The future of our forests is in our hands. And thanks to spaces such as the AY4F workshop and institutions such as LWF, which have always given these opportunities to youths.

The three-day policy dialogue brought together a wide range of restoration stakeholders from across the country, including restoration champions, civil society organisations (CSOs), and representatives from county and national government agencies. Among the key institutions present were KEFRI, KFS, KWS, FAO, KEPHIS, and the Ministry of Environment and Forestry. The platform offered a space to examine Kenya’s evolving seed and seedling systems, surface key policy gaps, and strengthen collaborations that support inclusive and science-informed restoration.

The sessions were dynamic and engaging, comprising panel discussions, value chain mapping exercises, gallery walks, table dialogues, and a participatory “3 Whys” analysis. Central to the conversations were issues of seed quality, certification barriers, limited access to diverse indigenous species, and the need for policy harmonisation across relevant agencies.

LWF Executive Director Celline Achieng’ makes a contribution during the policy dialogue session, seated alongside Amos Kingori, Secretary of Shamanek CFA, and John Kiongo of LWF

“There should be more effort to reduce the cost of certification and harmonise procedures, too many agencies and requirements make the process unnecessarily expensive.”

— Celline Achieng’, Executive Director, Laikipia Wildlife Forum, quoted in Forests News

LWF was among a select group of restoration champions invited to join follow-up sessions with practitioners from policy-implementing institutions on June 12 and 13, where we had the opportunity to engage more deeply on actionable policy recommendations. During the World Café session, we also had the chance to showcase our ongoing restoration efforts, highlighting our commitment to promoting native tree species through community-based nurseries in Laikipia. These nurseries not only increase access to indigenous seedlings but also empower local communities to participate meaningfully in restoration economies.

Celline Achieng’, John Kiongo and Amos Kingori present LWF’s grassroots restoration efforts during the World Café session, spotlighting the role of community-based nurseries in advancing native tree species adoption

Throughout the exchange, LWF emphasised the need for locally adapted, high-quality planting material and the importance of aligning grassroots restoration efforts with national policy frameworks. Our participation reinforced our belief that long-term success in restoration depends not only on sound science and community engagement, but also on policies that enable access, equity, and scale.

As restoration actors look ahead, LWF will continue to work alongside partners and government agencies to ensure that restoration interventions are both impactful on the ground and well-anchored in policy. We thank CIFOR-ICRAF, BGCI, and all participants for fostering a collaborative space for meaningful dialogue and joint action.

The event was vibrant and graced by notable dignitaries, including Honourable Governor Joshua Irungu and County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Water, Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change, Madam Leah Njeri, NEMA County Director of Environment, Madam Sarah Waruo and Chief Officer for Environment, Mr. Stephen Lapian, among others.

Madam Leah Njeri, CECM for Water, Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change, and Marima Lilau of the Kenya Defence Forces(KDF) collect waste during the World Environment Day clean-up in Nanyuki

Other Stakeholders present included representatives from the LWF, Three Rivers Academy, Equity Bank, Mazingira recyclers, KENWRUA, SIRIMA Tree Planting CBO, Laikipia Skills and Talent Institute, Pioneer Child Development Program, IMPACT Kenya, Laikipia Conservancies Association (LCA), NAWASCO, Likii Secondary School, KDF, KWS, IPSIA, Red Cross, KFS, Dedan Kimathi Foundation, among others.

Laikipia County Governor Joshua Irungu addresses participants during the World Environment Day celebrations at Likii Mixed Secondary School

Participants engaged in hands-on activities like collecting waste from the Petrol Station near the Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB), Nanyuki, to Likii Secondary School. The event featured speeches and presentations highlighting the impacts of plastic pollution and the importance of reducing our reliance on single-use plastics. Mazingira recyclers shared their local initiatives and innovations in recycling by making poles using melted plastic. Speeches from Madam Sarah and Madam Leah called on everyone to adopt sustainable practices anchored on the powerful theme “Plastic Pollution Ends with Me.”

This event aimed to raise awareness about the harmful effects of plastic waste. The governor emphasized the importance of individual and community action in tackling plastic pollution.

In a nutshell, LWF joined the community in celebrating the World Environment Day, which resonated deeply with our mission to protect Laikipia’s unique ecosystem. As we move forward, LWF remains committed to reducing plastic waste and ensuring a healthy environment for both wildlife and people in Laikipia.

In conclusion, as we reflect on World Environment Day, let’s remember that the fight against plastic pollution is an ongoing effort. Every small action counts, whether it is from reducing our plastic use to supporting initiatives like those by Mazingira Recyclers and others. Together, we can protect Laikipia’s precious Environment and ensure a cleaner, healthier future for all.

The event opened with a colorful and reflective Art Walk, where attendees explored classrooms transformed into galleries of student artwork. Each piece vividly portrayed the learners’ understanding of conservation, biodiversity, and sustainability, thereby proving that the voice of the youth is both creative and powerful in advocating for nature.

Following this, the program came alive with performances from various schools. Among the most memorable was a skit on waste management presented by Dol Dol Boys High School, showcasing practical conservation solutions through storytelling and humor. Other presentations included traditional songs, poems, and oral stories, all creatively woven with environmental themes and cultural pride.

A thrilling jeopardy competition between Ewaso Secondary School and Kimanjo Secondary School kept the crowd engaged, as students tackled complex questions across four categories: Habitat, Wildlife, Conservation, and other World Environmental Issues. Their thoughtful answers and clear preparation reflected the growing impact of conservation education across Laikipia schools.

Students huddle during the exciting conservation-themed Jeopardy competition

The highlight of the day was the awarding of educators, with special recognition going to Madam Agnes Santa, a dedicated teacher from Reteti Primary School. Her tireless efforts in weaving conservation into classroom learning have inspired both her students and fellow educators. Madam Santa’s award was presented by Dr. Nina Wambiji of the Mpala Research Centre, accompanied by a heartfelt message from Prof. Daniel and Nancy Rubenstein, who commended her as “a beacon of environmental inspiration in rural education.”

Madam Agnes Santa of Reteti Primary School receives a special award for her outstanding dedication to integrating conservation into classroom learning during the 17th Community Conservation Day

The program also featured remarks from the Northern Kenya Conservation Clubs (NKCC), reinforcing the importance of grassroots involvement in fostering a conservation ethic. Key partners, including Zeitz Foundation, Mpala Research Centre, Lion Landscapes, Ol Lentille, Loisaba Conservancy and other neighbouring conservancies, were acknowledged for their continued collaboration and support in safeguarding Laikipia’s unique biodiversity.

A total of 21 schools and clubs took part in this year’s Community Conservation Day, making it one of the most inclusive and vibrant to date. These included: – Ewaso Secondary, Kimanjo Secondary, Dol Dol Boys High, Daraja Girls, Ewaso Primary, Naiperere Comprehensive, Ilmojok Secondary, Nkirorit Conservation Club, Lekiji Junior Secondary, Kutuma Mixed Secondary, Nabolo Primary, Kurum Secondary, Ilmotiok Primary, Shilor Naibor Primary School, Ol-Jogi Comprehensive, Ol-Girgir Comprehensive, Reteti Primary, Ilpolei Primary, Sherton Musul Primary, Kimanjo Comprehensive, Nkiloriti Primary.

The event concluded with closing remarks from the chief guest, who extended gratitude to all contributors, partners, and participants for their support and involvement in making the day a success.

The 17th Community Conservation Day at Ewaso Primary was not just a celebration; it was a milestone moment. Through youth-led creativity, institutional recognition, and community partnership, the event reaffirmed Laikipia’s bold commitment to conservation. It proved that by equipping the next generation with knowledge, voice, and vision, we are shaping a future where both people and nature thrive. Indeed, Laikipia is raising “Guardians of Tomorrow.”