On 31st May 2025, the rooftop of Cedar Mall in Nanyuki transformed into a vibrant showcase of conservation, culture, and commerce as the inaugural Laikipia Wildlife and Tourism Expo took center stage. Organized by the Laikipia Wildlife Forum (LWF) in partnership with the Laikipia Tourism Association (LTA), the event brought together 53 exhibitors from across Kenya, including stakeholders from Nairobi, Baringo, Isiolo, Samburu, and beyond.
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.
