MEET THE TEAM
Dickson Kaelo
Chief Executive Officer
Founding CEO of KWCA, Dickson has a passion for working with communities and landowners to conserve and benefit from wildlife conservation.
A Kenya Wildlife Service Honorary Warden and winner of the Sustainability Science Award from the Ecological Society of American, Dickson has over two decades of experience in conservancy.
One of his key career highlights has been his 14 years of engagement in the Maasai Mara ecosystem, which resulted in the formation of four conservancies (Olare Orok, Motorogi, Mara North and Naboisho Conservancies) and improved coordination among 16 conservancies within the greater Maasai Mara ecosystem.
Dickson, a member of Lemek-Olchorro Oiroua and Enonkishu Conservancies in the Mara, has co-authored various articles and book chapters on community natural resource management and has been a speaker in local and international conservation science conferences.
He holds a Master of Philosophy degree in Wildlife Management, a Bachelors of Science degree in Animal Production and is currently pursuing his PhD in Range Management.
Daniel Letoiye
Regional Coordinator
As the liaison between the conservancies and KWCA, Daniel coordinates KWCA activities from the national level down to the regional level where he works closely with the regional associations across the country to ensure proper information flow across the board.
Daniel is a passionate conservationist inspired by his early interaction with wildlife growing up in the Northern Highlands of Samburu. This has seen him launch several conservancy initiates, such as the Westgate Conservancy in Northern Kenya.
His impact in the world of conservancy, particularly in restoring grassland conservation for the co-existence of Grevy’s Zebras and free-range livestock in Northern Kenya, has been recognised both at home and abroad.
Some of the accolades Daniel has been bestowed include the Young Scientist Award under the Emerging Environmental Leader Programme, which he was awarded in 2012 and the Whitley Award, which was awarded to him by Her Royal Highness Princess Anne through the Royal Geographical Society.
Daniel holds a Master of Science in Conservation and Rural development and a Bachelor of Education in Geography and Zoology.
Gladys Warigia
Policy Coordinator
Gladys Warigia Njoroge is our strategy maverick thanks to her vast experience on policy issues on Natural Resources and Project Management.
She has been at the heart of wildlife conservation in the country in several capacities, including participating in the Technical Working Group involved in the establishment of KWCA in 2012/13 where she represented World Wide Fund Kenya.
Gladys was also in the Technical Working Group tasked with reviewing the Wildlife Conservation and Management bill 2012 where she served as a member of the secretariat.
She holds a Bachelor of Laws degree and she is currently pursuing a Master of Laws in Environmental Law and a diploma in Project Management.
Joyce Mbataru
Communication & Development Officer
Joyce is our lead in development communication, gender and media relations. She is passionate about utilising both traditional and morden media to highlight and advocate for conservancy matters to the world.
At KWCA, she handles the implementation of our communication strategy to enhance the organisation’s brand presence, advance its goals and achieve its mission.
Prior to joining KWCA, Joyce horned her skills in various positions, including as a Programmes Officer at the Association of Media Women in Kenya (AMWIK).
Joyce has also worked at Youth, Arts, Development and Entrepreneurship Network (YADEN) where she was responsible for developing content for their social media platforms and their website, media mobilisation and production of communication materials.
She aspires to establish a network of communication professionals in conservation that will offer a platform for sharing Kenya’s conservancy news to the world.
Joyce holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Communication degree and is currently pursuing an Master of Arts in Development Studies.
Martyn Muchuma
Monitoring & Evaluation Officer
Martyn, who has a liking for data, is our expert in all matters monitoring and evaluation.
He is very keen in safeguarding the effectiveness and efficiency of programmes implemented by KWCA, thus closely oversees the implementation of our projects from their inception to their fruitful implementation and completion.
He carries a wealth of experience in this field, having held several monitoring and evaluation positions prior to joining KWCA, including National Coordinator in charge of Monitoring and Evaluation at Huru International and the M&E manager at Armut Kenya, among others.
His career highlight has been enabling organisations develop effective M&E systems.
Martyn holds a Master in Public Policy and Human Development and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychological Counseling. He eyes enrolling in a PhD in Public Policy soon in a quest to be equipped to influence policy at a more macro-level in the near future.
Faria Tarus
Programmes Assistant
Faria is our go-to person when in need of administrative and logistical support for projects.
A highly-organised team player, she carries out membership recruitment, ensures our nation-wide conservancy database is updated and provides management in the KWCA mapping exercises in consultation with designated experts as well as offers support to other departments.
Her love for conservation and involvement in all things wildlife has seen her hold a number of conservancy positions, such as Research Intern at KWS Amboseli National Park, Research Assistant at Institutional Canopy of Conservation (I-CAN) East Africa and now KWCA.
Faria is an ardent enthusiast of wildlife management, tree planting, ecological monitoring, community development and charity drives.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Dryland and Natural Resource Management degree and a Certificate in Environmental Impact Assessment and Environmental Audit.
Raymond Cheruiyot
Accountant
Raymond, our numbers prodigy, maintains all the checks and balances in terms of our finances. Apart from working in the finance docket, he also offers his support in the Administration and Human Resources departments.
His love for working with figures has seen him hold accounting positions in various organisations and bag an accolade or two while at it.
Prior to working at KWCA, Raymond worked at the Litein Town Council, Regent Group East Africa, Basecamp Foundation Kenya and The Kenya Land Conservation Trust.
His stellar work in finance has seen him recognised in various capacities, including being awarded the Best Performance in Financial Accounting in the Kenya and the East African region by KASNEB (Kenya Accountants and Secretaries National Examinations Board).
Raymond holds a Bachelor of Business Management in Finance and Banking.
Lucy Gaiti
Office Assistant
Lucy is responsible for making sure the office is well-stocked with all the necessary supplies that are needed to ensure the staff is comfortable.
Prior to joining KWCA, she worked in a similar capacity at Consolata Seminary and the Catholic University of Eastern Africa.
Lucy enjoys being in the service industry as she gets to interact with people from various cultures, which exposes her to diverse lifestyles.
Lucy holds a certificate in fashion design and garment making.
MEET THE COMMITTEE
Tom Lalampa
Chairperson, KWCA Executive Committee
KWCA’s Founding Chairperson, Tom brings on board more than ten years’ wealth of hands-on-experience in managing wildlife through host communities gained from working with community-based organisations in Kenya.
Currently pursuing his PhD, he holds a rich background in community development, conservancy management and fundraising, an MBA in Strategic Management, MA in Project Planning and a BA in Social Work and Management.
Tom has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to the development of northern Kenya’s communities, conflict resolution and sustainable conservation of wildlife.
His list of accolades include the 2013 TUSK Trust Conservation award, awarded to him by His Royal Highness the Duke of Cambridge.
Tom was also the first African to accept the prestigious Stanford University Bright Award, an international award that recognises environmental pioneers.
Kathryn Combes
Vice Chairperson, KWCA Executive Committee
Kathryn is a conservationist, ecologist, artist and photographer.
CEO of Soysambu Conservancy and Co-founder of the Rift Lakes Conservancies Association, Kathryn has over a decade of wildlife management experience.
Educated in the U.S., Kathryn has worked in various conservancy spheres, including developing large conservancy areas by incorporating dual land use of wildlife and agriculture.
She serves in the Kenya Lakes System World Heritage Site technical committee and is also a member of the Nakuru County Conservation and Compensation Committee.
A KWS Honorary Warden, Kathryn previously worked as the Project Director at Rhino Rescue Trust Kenya.
John Kamanga
Secretary, KWCA Executive Committee
John is the coordinator of Southern Rangelands Association of Landowners (SORALO) and chairperson of the Olkiramatian Group Ranch.
John has coordinated conservation, tourism development and research within the SORALO region covering over 2 million acres within the Rift Valley floor, working towards connecting the Maasai Mara and the Amboseli ecosystem.
His toils has seen him gain international recognition, including being awarded the 2013 Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden’s Wildlife Conservation Award.
Anne Kahihia
Treasurer, KWCA Executive Committee
Anne is the Assistant Director, Community Wildlife Service Department (Devolution and Community Service Division) at Kenya Wildlife Service.
She previously worked as an Assistant Director of the Southern Conservation Area and Central Rift Regions. She has also worked as a senior warden at Aberdares National Park and Lake Nakuru National Park and an area warden at Hell’s Gate National Park.
Anne holds a Bachelor in Zoology degree and a Master of Science in Zoology from Pune University, India.
She has also undertaken international courses in crisis management, negotiation skills for conflict management in protected areas and strategic leadership development.
MEET THE COUNCIL
Tom Lalampaa
Representing Northern Rangelands Trust
KWCA’s Founding Chairperson, Tom brings on board more than ten years’ wealth of hands-on-experience in managing wildlife through host communities gained from working with community-based organisations in Kenya.
Currently pursuing his PhD, he holds a rich background in community development, conservancy management and fundraising, an MBA in Strategic Management, MA in Project Planning and a BA in Social Work and Management.
Tom has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to the development of northern Kenya’s communities, conflict resolution and sustainable conservation of wildlife.
His list of accolades include the 2013 TUSK Trust Conservation award, awarded to him by His Royal Highness the Duke of Cambridge.
Tom was also the first African to accept the prestigious Stanford University Bright Award, an international award that recognises environmental pioneers.
Kathryn Combes
Representing Rift Lakes Nakuru Region
Kathryn is a conservationist, ecologist, artist and photographer.
CEO of Soysambu Conservancy and Co-founder of the Rift Lakes Conservancies Association, Kathryn has over a decade of wildlife management experience.
Educated in the U.S., Kathryn has worked in various conservancy spheres, including developing large conservancy areas by incorporating dual land use of wildlife and agriculture.
She serves in the Kenya Lakes System World Heritage Site technical committee and is also a member of the Nakuru County Conservation and Compensation Committee.
A KWS Honorary Warden, Kathryn previously worked as the Project Director at Rhino Rescue Trust Kenya.
John Kamanga
Representing South Rift Association of Land Owners (SORALO)
John is the coordinator of Southern Rangelands Association of Landowners (SORALO) and chairperson of the Olkiramatian Group Ranch.
John has coordinated conservation, tourism development and research within the SORALO region covering over 2 million acres within the Rift Valley floor, working towards connecting the Maasai Mara and the Amboseli ecosystem.
His toils has seen him gain international recognition, including being awarded the 2013 Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden’s Wildlife Conservation Award.
Donald Bong’osa Mcharo
Representing Taita Taveta Wildlife Conservancies Association
Donald Mcharo is the chairperson of Taita Taveta Wildlife Conservancies Association, Mgeno Ranching Company and Mwachabo Development Forum.
He retired from the Ministry of Finance, as the Assistant Commissioner of Customs, in 1994, having worked for the ministry for 27 years.
Josephine Ekiru
Representing Women
Josephine is a member and chairperson of Nakuprat-Gotu Conservancy in Isiolo County.
An environmental conservationist, she has been proactive in anti-poaching campaigns through music and community education and in leading efforts of reforming poachers by turning them into active conservationists.
She is also active in peace campaigns in Northern Kenya, an endeavour that saw her recognised during Kenya at 50 celebrations in 2013 for her outstanding peace efforts.
She is the current peace coordinator at Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT).
Peter Hetz
Representing Laikipia Region
Peter, Executive Director of Laikipia Wildlife Forum, has been engaged in natural resources management, wildlife conservation and land tenure in Africa for more than 40 years.
His first professional engagement started in Kenya as a Fellow to the Kenya Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife. Since then, Peter has worked in some 15 African countries and 30 countries internationally.
Peter holds degrees in Natural Resources Management and Adult Education.
Benson Leyian
Representing Amboseli Region
Benson holds a Bachelor of Science in Leadership and Management degree from Strathmore University and is a Certified Public Accountant as well as a member of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya.
He is the representative of the Amboseli communities in Kajiado County where he serves as a General Manager of Amboseli Ecosystem Trust, a position he has held since 2011.
Evans Kandie
Representing Rift Lakes Wildlife Conservancies Association-Baringo Region
A holder of a bachelor’s degree in hotel and hospitality management from Moi University, Evans represents conservancies within the larger Central Rift Valley where he has been an active conservationist in both Baringo and Nakuru Counties.
Evans is the co-founder of the Rift Lakes Wildlife Conservancies Association and has worked as the General Manager of Crater Lake Sanctuary and Conservancy in Naivasha for five years.
His current engagements include overseaing Baringo community conservancies in his capacity as the county’s Tourism Director.
Daniel Sopia
Representing Maasai Mara Region
Daniel is the Co-founder and Former Chairperson of the Maasai Mara Wildlife Conservancy Association (MMWCA).
He is currently MMWCA’s Chief Programmes Officer and a Director at Motorogi Conservancy.
He is also a Board Member at Olare Motorogi Conservancy Trust and the Vice Chairperson Olpurkel Limited.
A professional safari guide with over 12 years’ experience, Daniel has a Bronze and Silver certification from the Kenya Professional Guides Association and has worked with Rekero Camps in the Maasai Mara Ecosystem.
Silvery Ochola Gaa
Representing Nyanza and Western Regions
Ochola Gaa holds a Bachelor of Education degree from Makerere University College, having graduated in 1967.
He has been the Chairperson of Gwasi Hills Forest Conservation Association for the past 12 years.
With close to four decades of experience in the education sector, Ochola Gaa has served in various capacities in education institutions, including Principal at Mirogi Boys Sec. School, Dean of Curriculum at Asumbi Teachers Training College and Dean of Students at St Paul’s Teacher’s Training College.
He has also been the Chairperson of Tonga Boys’ Board of Governors for the last 16 years.
Joseph Rotich
Representing North Rift Region
Joseph is the Founder of Masol Community Wildlife Conservancy in West Pokot County.
He is currently the CEO of the African Rangeland Trust, an organisation that champions conservation, promotes community-based alternative livelihoods and peace building in the pastoral areas.
Joseph holds a BA in Political Science and Public Administration from the University of Nairobi and a Diploma in Human Resource Management, Project Management and Community Development. He also has a Certificate in Conflict Resolution and Management.
Michael Mbithi
Representing Athi Kapiti Wildlife Conservancies Association
Michael is an experienced project coordinator with over 10 years’ experience in wildlife management, conservation education as well as local tourism development obtained from co-founding projects and collaborations with Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and predator and landscape conservation bodies across Kenya.
He is passionate about wildlife conservation, offers a unique combination of creative, analytical, hands-on project management and evaluation expertise as well as the ability to design and implement effective strategies addressing human-wildlife conflict mitigation.
Michael is currently working with The Wildlife Foundation as a Human Predator Conflict Mitigation Consultant and is the current chair of Athi Kapiti Wildlife Conservancies Association.
MEET THE FOUNDERS
Munira Bashir
KWCA Founding Member
Munira is the Kenya Programme Director at The Nature Conservancy (TNC).
She has more than 20 years’ of experience in wildlife conservation, community development and tourism.
Previously, Munira worked as the director in charge of community wildlife department at Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) where she managed and implemented corporate social responsibility projects (social, health and water) for communities who live in wildlife areas, approval and payment of human wildlife conflict cases (death and injury), and was a member of the government gazetted task force charged with the review of the Wildlife Act of 1989 that eventually led to the enactment of the current Wildlife Act of 2013, which recognises community conservancies.
In 2008, Munira was awarded the Head of State Commendation for championing communities’ benefits from wildlife conservation.
Since then, Munira continues to work with communities to improve their livelihoods through nature-based businesses and preserve the country’s wildlife.
Munira has a Master in Tourism Administration and Management from the University of Cracow in Poland.
Allan Earnshaw
KWCA Founding Member
Allan is the Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Kenya Wildlife Trust (KWT) and a Partner/Director at Ker & Downey Safaris.
A fourth generation Kenyan whose family came to Kenya in 1896, Allan is a member of several other environment and conservation boards as well, including the Kenya Land Conservation Trust, Kenya Private Sector Alliance and the Kenya Tourism Federation. He is also a former board member of the Kenya Wildlife Service.
He holds a Master in Human Sciences degree from Oxford University.
Dr Julius Kipng’etich
KWCA Founding Member
Dr Kipng’etich has been the CEO of Uchumi Supermarkets Limited since August 3, 2015.
He has previously served as the COO of Equity Group Holdings Limited and was the Director General of Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) from 2004 to 2012.
He holds a PhD from the University of Nairobi, a Master of Business Administration degree and a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Nairobi.
Fiesta Warinwa
KWCA Founding Member
Fiesta has worked for African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) since 1999, rising through the ranks from an internt to a Landscape Conservation Officer to now the Director of Philanthropy Africa.
She spent several years directing AWF’s Samburu Heartland and later moved to direct AWF’s programme in the Kilimanjaro Heartland.
Fiesta now oversees all of AWF’s programme implementation activities for Kenya, including Kilimanjaro, Samburu, and Mau Forest.
She holds an Master of Science in Wildlife Conservation and Management from the University of Reading, UK.
Charles Oluchina
KWCA Founding Member
Charles is a natural resources management, conservation, climate change and rural development specialist with over 18 years’ of experience.
He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Natural Resources Management and a Master of Business Administration in Entrepreneurship degree.
He is skilled in project management, policy analysis and design, strategic planning, business design and research methodologies.
His breadth of professional experience include careers with the Ornithology Society of Kenya as a field assistant, Rural Development Specialist with Pact Inc, Biodiversity and NRM specialist at USAID/Kenya and a Programme and Policy Strategy Advisor on Environment, Land Policy and Community within USAID-US Embassy/Nairobi office.
In 2012, he joined The Nature Conservancy (TNC) as the Country Programme Director and in June 2013, he was appointed TNC’s Africa Director of Field Programmes with purview over seven countries, namely Gabon, Namibia, Zambia, Kenya, Seychelles, Mozambique and Tanzania.
Charles is a highly-accomplished strategist, manager, researcher and facilitator with a number of successful and outstanding achievements.
He is currently a member of the Board of Management of NEMA, a passionate diplomat, public speaker, writer, traveler and development commentator.
- + Staff
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MEET THE TEAM
Dickson Kaelo
CEODickson Simiren Ole KaeloChief Executive Officer
Founding CEO of KWCA, Dickson has a passion for working with communities and landowners to conserve and benefit from wildlife conservation.
A Kenya Wildlife Service Honorary Warden and winner of the Sustainability Science Award from the Ecological Society of American, Dickson has over two decades of experience in conservancy.
One of his key career highlights has been his 14 years of engagement in the Maasai Mara ecosystem, which resulted in the formation of four conservancies (Olare Orok, Motorogi, Mara North and Naboisho Conservancies) and improved coordination among 16 conservancies within the greater Maasai Mara ecosystem.
Dickson, a member of Lemek-Olchorro Oiroua and Enonkishu Conservancies in the Mara, has co-authored various articles and book chapters on community natural resource management and has been a speaker in local and international conservation science conferences.
He holds a Master of Philosophy degree in Wildlife Management, a Bachelors of Science degree in Animal Production and is currently pursuing his PhD in Range Management.
CloseDaniel Letoiye
Regional CoordinatorDaniel LetoiyeRegional Coordinator
As the liaison between the conservancies and KWCA, Daniel coordinates KWCA activities from the national level down to the regional level where he works closely with the regional associations across the country to ensure proper information flow across the board.
Daniel is a passionate conservationist inspired by his early interaction with wildlife growing up in the Northern Highlands of Samburu. This has seen him launch several conservancy initiates, such as the Westgate Conservancy in Northern Kenya.
His impact in the world of conservancy, particularly in restoring grassland conservation for the co-existence of Grevy’s Zebras and free-range livestock in Northern Kenya, has been recognised both at home and abroad.
Some of the accolades Daniel has been bestowed include the Young Scientist Award under the Emerging Environmental Leader Programme, which he was awarded in 2012 and the Whitley Award, which was awarded to him by Her Royal Highness Princess Anne through the Royal Geographical Society.
Daniel holds a Master of Science in Conservation and Rural development and a Bachelor of Education in Geography and Zoology.
CloseGladys Warigia
Policy CoordinatorGladys Warigia NjorogePolicy Coordinator
Gladys Warigia Njoroge is our strategy maverick thanks to her vast experience on policy issues on Natural Resources and Project Management.
She has been at the heart of wildlife conservation in the country in several capacities, including participating in the Technical Working Group involved in the establishment of KWCA in 2012/13 where she represented World Wide Fund Kenya.
Gladys was also in the Technical Working Group tasked with reviewing the Wildlife Conservation and Management bill 2012 where she served as a member of the secretariat.
She holds a Bachelor of Laws degree and she is currently pursuing a Master of Laws in Environmental Law and a diploma in Project Management.
CloseJoyce Mbataru
Communication & Development OfficerJoyce NyaruaiCommunication & Development Officer
Joyce is our lead in development communication, gender and media relations. She is passionate about utilising both traditional and morden media to highlight and advocate for conservancy matters to the world.
At KWCA, she handles the implementation of our communication strategy to enhance the organisation’s brand presence, advance its goals and achieve its mission.
Prior to joining KWCA, Joyce horned her skills in various positions, including as a Programmes Officer at the Association of Media Women in Kenya (AMWIK).
Joyce has also worked at Youth, Arts, Development and Entrepreneurship Network (YADEN) where she was responsible for developing content for their social media platforms and their website, media mobilisation and production of communication materials.
She aspires to establish a network of communication professionals in conservation that will offer a platform for sharing Kenya’s conservancy news to the world.
Joyce holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Communication degree and is currently pursuing an Master of Arts in Development Studies.
CloseMartyn Muchuma
Monitoring & Evaluation OfficerMartyn MuchumaMonitoring & Evaluation Officer
Martyn, who has a liking for data, is our expert in all matters monitoring and evaluation.
He is very keen in safeguarding the effectiveness and efficiency of programmes implemented by KWCA, thus closely oversees the implementation of our projects from their inception to their fruitful implementation and completion.
He carries a wealth of experience in this field, having held several monitoring and evaluation positions prior to joining KWCA, including National Coordinator in charge of Monitoring and Evaluation at Huru International and the M&E manager at Armut Kenya, among others.
His career highlight has been enabling organisations develop effective M&E systems.
Martyn holds a Master in Public Policy and Human Development and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychological Counseling. He eyes enrolling in a PhD in Public Policy soon in a quest to be equipped to influence policy at a more macro-level in the near future.
CloseFaria Tarus
Programmes AssistantFaria TarusProgrammes Assistant
Faria is our go-to person when in need of administrative and logistical support for projects.
A highly-organised team player, she carries out membership recruitment, ensures our nation-wide conservancy database is updated and provides management in the KWCA mapping exercises in consultation with designated experts as well as offers support to other departments.
Her love for conservation and involvement in all things wildlife has seen her hold a number of conservancy positions, such as Research Intern at KWS Amboseli National Park, Research Assistant at Institutional Canopy of Conservation (I-CAN) East Africa and now KWCA.
Faria is an ardent enthusiast of wildlife management, tree planting, ecological monitoring, community development and charity drives.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Dryland and Natural Resource Management degree and a Certificate in Environmental Impact Assessment and Environmental Audit.
CloseRaymond Cheruiyot
Accountant AdministrationRaymond CheruiyotAccountant
Raymond, our numbers prodigy, maintains all the checks and balances in terms of our finances. Apart from working in the finance docket, he also offers his support in the Administration and Human Resources departments.
His love for working with figures has seen him hold accounting positions in various organisations and bag an accolade or two while at it.
Prior to working at KWCA, Raymond worked at the Litein Town Council, Regent Group East Africa, Basecamp Foundation Kenya and The Kenya Land Conservation Trust.
His stellar work in finance has seen him recognised in various capacities, including being awarded the Best Performance in Financial Accounting in the Kenya and the East African region by KASNEB (Kenya Accountants and Secretaries National Examinations Board).
Raymond holds a Bachelor of Business Management in Finance and Banking.
CloseLucy Gaiti
Office AssistantLucy GaitaOffice Assistant
Lucy is responsible for making sure the office is well-stocked with all the necessary supplies that are needed to ensure the staff is comfortable.
Prior to joining KWCA, she worked in a similar capacity at Consolata Seminary and the Catholic University of Eastern Africa.
Lucy enjoys being in the service industry as she gets to interact with people from various cultures, which exposes her to diverse lifestyles.
Lucy holds a certificate in fashion design and garment making.
Close - + Executive Commitee
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MEET THE COMMITTEE
Tom Lalampa
ChairpersonTom LalampaaChairperson, KWCA Executive Committee
KWCA’s Founding Chairperson, Tom brings on board more than ten years’ wealth of hands-on-experience in managing wildlife through host communities gained from working with community-based organisations in Kenya.
Currently pursuing his PhD, he holds a rich background in community development, conservancy management and fundraising, an MBA in Strategic Management, MA in Project Planning and a BA in Social Work and Management.
Tom has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to the development of northern Kenya’s communities, conflict resolution and sustainable conservation of wildlife.
His list of accolades include the 2013 TUSK Trust Conservation award, awarded to him by His Royal Highness the Duke of Cambridge.
Tom was also the first African to accept the prestigious Stanford University Bright Award, an international award that recognises environmental pioneers.
CloseKathryn Combes
Vice ChairpersonKathryn CombesVice Chairperson, KWCA Executive Committee
Kathryn is a conservationist, ecologist, artist and photographer.
CEO of Soysambu Conservancy and Co-founder of the Rift Lakes Conservancies Association, Kathryn has over a decade of wildlife management experience.
Educated in the U.S., Kathryn has worked in various conservancy spheres, including developing large conservancy areas by incorporating dual land use of wildlife and agriculture.
She serves in the Kenya Lakes System World Heritage Site technical committee and is also a member of the Nakuru County Conservation and Compensation Committee.
A KWS Honorary Warden, Kathryn previously worked as the Project Director at Rhino Rescue Trust Kenya.
CloseJohn Kamanga
SecretaryJohn KamangaSecretary, KWCA Executive Committee
John is the coordinator of Southern Rangelands Association of Landowners (SORALO) and chairperson of the Olkiramatian Group Ranch.
John has coordinated conservation, tourism development and research within the SORALO region covering over 2 million acres within the Rift Valley floor, working towards connecting the Maasai Mara and the Amboseli ecosystem.
His toils has seen him gain international recognition, including being awarded the 2013 Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden’s Wildlife Conservation Award.
CloseAnne Kahihia
TreasurerAnne KahihiaTreasurer, KWCA Executive Committee
Anne is the Assistant Director, Community Wildlife Service Department (Devolution and Community Service Division) at Kenya Wildlife Service.
She previously worked as an Assistant Director of the Southern Conservation Area and Central Rift Regions. She has also worked as a senior warden at Aberdares National Park and Lake Nakuru National Park and an area warden at Hell’s Gate National Park.
Anne holds a Bachelor in Zoology degree and a Master of Science in Zoology from Pune University, India.
She has also undertaken international courses in crisis management, negotiation skills for conflict management in protected areas and strategic leadership development.
Close - + National Conservancies Council
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MEET THE COUNCIL
Tom Lalampaa
Representing the Northern Rangelands TrustTom LalampaaRepresenting Northern Rangelands Trust
KWCA’s Founding Chairperson, Tom brings on board more than ten years’ wealth of hands-on-experience in managing wildlife through host communities gained from working with community-based organisations in Kenya.
Currently pursuing his PhD, he holds a rich background in community development, conservancy management and fundraising, an MBA in Strategic Management, MA in Project Planning and a BA in Social Work and Management.
Tom has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to the development of northern Kenya’s communities, conflict resolution and sustainable conservation of wildlife.
His list of accolades include the 2013 TUSK Trust Conservation award, awarded to him by His Royal Highness the Duke of Cambridge.
Tom was also the first African to accept the prestigious Stanford University Bright Award, an international award that recognises environmental pioneers.
CloseKathryn Combes
Representing Rift Lakes Nakuru RegionKathryn CombesRepresenting Rift Lakes Nakuru Region
Kathryn is a conservationist, ecologist, artist and photographer.
CEO of Soysambu Conservancy and Co-founder of the Rift Lakes Conservancies Association, Kathryn has over a decade of wildlife management experience.
Educated in the U.S., Kathryn has worked in various conservancy spheres, including developing large conservancy areas by incorporating dual land use of wildlife and agriculture.
She serves in the Kenya Lakes System World Heritage Site technical committee and is also a member of the Nakuru County Conservation and Compensation Committee.
A KWS Honorary Warden, Kathryn previously worked as the Project Director at Rhino Rescue Trust Kenya.
CloseJohn Kamanga
Representing South Rift Association of Landowners (SORALO)John KamangaRepresenting South Rift Association of Land Owners (SORALO)
John is the coordinator of Southern Rangelands Association of Landowners (SORALO) and chairperson of the Olkiramatian Group Ranch.
John has coordinated conservation, tourism development and research within the SORALO region covering over 2 million acres within the Rift Valley floor, working towards connecting the Maasai Mara and the Amboseli ecosystem.
His toils has seen him gain international recognition, including being awarded the 2013 Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden’s Wildlife Conservation Award.
CloseDonald Bong’osa Mcharo
Representing Taita Taveta Wildlife Conservancies AssociationDonald Bong’osa McharoRepresenting Taita Taveta Wildlife Conservancies Association
Donald Mcharo is the chairperson of Taita Taveta Wildlife Conservancies Association, Mgeno Ranching Company and Mwachabo Development Forum.
He retired from the Ministry of Finance, as the Assistant Commissioner of Customs, in 1994, having worked for the ministry for 27 years.
CloseJosephine Ekiru
Representing WomenJosephine EkiruRepresenting Women
Josephine is a member and chairperson of Nakuprat-Gotu Conservancy in Isiolo County.
An environmental conservationist, she has been proactive in anti-poaching campaigns through music and community education and in leading efforts of reforming poachers by turning them into active conservationists.
She is also active in peace campaigns in Northern Kenya, an endeavour that saw her recognised during Kenya at 50 celebrations in 2013 for her outstanding peace efforts.
She is the current peace coordinator at Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT).
ClosePeter Hetz
Representing Laikipia RegionPeter HetzRepresenting Laikipia Region
Peter, Executive Director of Laikipia Wildlife Forum, has been engaged in natural resources management, wildlife conservation and land tenure in Africa for more than 40 years.
His first professional engagement started in Kenya as a Fellow to the Kenya Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife. Since then, Peter has worked in some 15 African countries and 30 countries internationally.
Peter holds degrees in Natural Resources Management and Adult Education.
CloseBenson Leyian
Representing Amboseli Ecosystem TrustBenson LeyianRepresenting Amboseli Region
Benson holds a Bachelor of Science in Leadership and Management degree from Strathmore University and is a Certified Public Accountant as well as a member of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya.
He is the representative of the Amboseli communities in Kajiado County where he serves as a General Manager of Amboseli Ecosystem Trust, a position he has held since 2011.
CloseEvans Kandie
Representing Rift Lakes Baringo RegionEvans KandieRepresenting Rift Lakes Wildlife Conservancies Association-Baringo Region
A holder of a bachelor’s degree in hotel and hospitality management from Moi University, Evans represents conservancies within the larger Central Rift Valley where he has been an active conservationist in both Baringo and Nakuru Counties.
Evans is the co-founder of the Rift Lakes Wildlife Conservancies Association and has worked as the General Manager of Crater Lake Sanctuary and Conservancy in Naivasha for five years.
His current engagements include overseaing Baringo community conservancies in his capacity as the county’s Tourism Director.
CloseDaniel Sopia
Representing Maasai Mara Wildlife Conservancies AssociationDaniel SopiaRepresenting Maasai Mara Region
Daniel is the Co-founder and Former Chairperson of the Maasai Mara Wildlife Conservancy Association (MMWCA).
He is currently MMWCA’s Chief Programmes Officer and a Director at Motorogi Conservancy.
He is also a Board Member at Olare Motorogi Conservancy Trust and the Vice Chairperson Olpurkel Limited.
A professional safari guide with over 12 years’ experience, Daniel has a Bronze and Silver certification from the Kenya Professional Guides Association and has worked with Rekero Camps in the Maasai Mara Ecosystem.
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Representing Nyanza and Western RegionsSilvery Ochola GaaRepresenting Nyanza and Western Regions
Ochola Gaa holds a Bachelor of Education degree from Makerere University College, having graduated in 1967.
He has been the Chairperson of Gwasi Hills Forest Conservation Association for the past 12 years.
With close to four decades of experience in the education sector, Ochola Gaa has served in various capacities in education institutions, including Principal at Mirogi Boys Sec. School, Dean of Curriculum at Asumbi Teachers Training College and Dean of Students at St Paul’s Teacher’s Training College.
He has also been the Chairperson of Tonga Boys’ Board of Governors for the last 16 years.
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Representing North Rift RegionJoseph RotichRepresenting North Rift Region
Joseph is the Founder of Masol Community Wildlife Conservancy in West Pokot County.
He is currently the CEO of the African Rangeland Trust, an organisation that champions conservation, promotes community-based alternative livelihoods and peace building in the pastoral areas.
Joseph holds a BA in Political Science and Public Administration from the University of Nairobi and a Diploma in Human Resource Management, Project Management and Community Development. He also has a Certificate in Conflict Resolution and Management.
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Representing Athi Kapiti Wildlife Conservancies AssociationMichael MbithiRepresenting Athi Kapiti Wildlife Conservancies Association
Michael is an experienced project coordinator with over 10 years’ experience in wildlife management, conservation education as well as local tourism development obtained from co-founding projects and collaborations with Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and predator and landscape conservation bodies across Kenya.
He is passionate about wildlife conservation, offers a unique combination of creative, analytical, hands-on project management and evaluation expertise as well as the ability to design and implement effective strategies addressing human-wildlife conflict mitigation.
Michael is currently working with The Wildlife Foundation as a Human Predator Conflict Mitigation Consultant and is the current chair of Athi Kapiti Wildlife Conservancies Association.
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MEET THE FOUNDERS
Munira Bashir
Kenya Programme Director, The Nature Conservancy (TNC)Munira BashirKWCA Founding Member
Munira is the Kenya Programme Director at The Nature Conservancy (TNC).
She has more than 20 years’ of experience in wildlife conservation, community development and tourism.
Previously, Munira worked as the director in charge of community wildlife department at Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) where she managed and implemented corporate social responsibility projects (social, health and water) for communities who live in wildlife areas, approval and payment of human wildlife conflict cases (death and injury), and was a member of the government gazetted task force charged with the review of the Wildlife Act of 1989 that eventually led to the enactment of the current Wildlife Act of 2013, which recognises community conservancies.
In 2008, Munira was awarded the Head of State Commendation for championing communities’ benefits from wildlife conservation.
Since then, Munira continues to work with communities to improve their livelihoods through nature-based businesses and preserve the country’s wildlife.
Munira has a Master in Tourism Administration and Management from the University of Cracow in Poland.
CloseAllan Earnshaw
Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, Kenya Wildlife Trust (KWT)Allan EarnshawKWCA Founding Member
Allan is the Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Kenya Wildlife Trust (KWT) and a Partner/Director at Ker & Downey Safaris.
A fourth generation Kenyan whose family came to Kenya in 1896, Allan is a member of several other environment and conservation boards as well, including the Kenya Land Conservation Trust, Kenya Private Sector Alliance and the Kenya Tourism Federation. He is also a former board member of the Kenya Wildlife Service.
He holds a Master in Human Sciences degree from Oxford University.
CloseDr Julius Kipng’etich
Former Director General, Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS)Dr Julius Kipng’etich, CBSKWCA Founding Member
Dr Kipng’etich has been the CEO of Uchumi Supermarkets Limited since August 3, 2015.
He has previously served as the COO of Equity Group Holdings Limited and was the Director General of Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) from 2004 to 2012.
He holds a PhD from the University of Nairobi, a Master of Business Administration degree and a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Nairobi.
CloseFiesta Warinwa
Director Philanthropy, Africa Wildlife Foundation (AWF)Fiesta WarinwaKWCA Founding Member
Fiesta has worked for African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) since 1999, rising through the ranks from an internt to a Landscape Conservation Officer to now the Director of Philanthropy Africa.
She spent several years directing AWF’s Samburu Heartland and later moved to direct AWF’s programme in the Kilimanjaro Heartland.
Fiesta now oversees all of AWF’s programme implementation activities for Kenya, including Kilimanjaro, Samburu, and Mau Forest.
She holds an Master of Science in Wildlife Conservation and Management from the University of Reading, UK.
CloseCharles Oluchina
Charles Oluchina, Regional Programme Coordinator, IUCN Eastern and Southern Africa Regional OfficeCharles OluchinaKWCA Founding Member
Charles is a natural resources management, conservation, climate change and rural development specialist with over 18 years’ of experience.
He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Natural Resources Management and a Master of Business Administration in Entrepreneurship degree.
He is skilled in project management, policy analysis and design, strategic planning, business design and research methodologies.
His breadth of professional experience include careers with the Ornithology Society of Kenya as a field assistant, Rural Development Specialist with Pact Inc, Biodiversity and NRM specialist at USAID/Kenya and a Programme and Policy Strategy Advisor on Environment, Land Policy and Community within USAID-US Embassy/Nairobi office.
In 2012, he joined The Nature Conservancy (TNC) as the Country Programme Director and in June 2013, he was appointed TNC’s Africa Director of Field Programmes with purview over seven countries, namely Gabon, Namibia, Zambia, Kenya, Seychelles, Mozambique and Tanzania.
Charles is a highly-accomplished strategist, manager, researcher and facilitator with a number of successful and outstanding achievements.
He is currently a member of the Board of Management of NEMA, a passionate diplomat, public speaker, writer, traveler and development commentator.
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