The Wildlife Research & Training Institute Kenya WRTI) has successfully completed the Laikipia-Isiolo-Samburu-Marsabit-Meru landscape wildlife census, covering a total of 60,928 Square Kilometers, marking 90 per cent coverage of the area. The remaining portion will be covered today.
The 12-day exercise employed advanced total aerial survey techniques to gather comprehensive on wildlife population, distribution within the expansive landscape, habitats, and the overall health of the landscape.
Speaking yesterday during the closing debrief, WRTIKenya Director Dr. Patrick Omondi praised the concerted efforts of the pilots, Rear and Front-Seat Observers (RSO & FSO ), data crew, and Geographic Information System (GIS) specialists, who ensured the exercise ran smoothly over the past two weeks.
“This census monitored species populations over time and space, providing essential data for informed conservation efforts. The meticulous coordination between our pilots who navigated challenging terrains, Rear and Front-Seat Observers (RSO & FSO), who observed and recorded vital information, the data crew who ensured accuracy, and GIS experts who turned data into actionable insights was exemplary. Their dedication is a true reflection of our commitment to ensure we inform wildlife conservation.
Dr Omondi emphasized the importance of such initiatives, noting that “this landscape is not only home to iconic species like elephants, Grevy’s zebras, but also serves as a lifeline for countless communities and ecosystems. Accurate data is the foundation of effective conservation and sustainable management.” He thanked partners and stakeholders for their unwavering support, stating, “Partnerships are the cornerstone of impactful conservation. This exercise would not have been possible without the resources, expertise, and collaboration of our partners. Together, we are ensuring that Kenya’s wildlife thrives for generations to come.”
“ I thank the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife – Kenya under the leadership of Cabinet Secretary Hon. Rebecca Miano, EGH, State Department for Wildlife under the leadership of PS Silvia Museiya, Tourism Promotion Fund Kenya for their financial support, Kenya Wildlife Service, Save the Elephants, Born Free Kenya Loisaba Conservancy , Wyss Academy for Nature Mpala Research, WWF-Kenya Department of Resource Survey and Remote Sensing (DRSRS) and all other partners,” he said.
Dr. Omondi reiterated the Institute’s commitment to leveraging the census findings for actionable solutions. “We are not just counting wildlife; we are building a legacy of informed conservation. These efforts underscore our vision of a Kenya where humans and wildlife coexist harmoniously.”
Save the Elephants CEO Frank Pope, congratulated the Institute and all the partners for ensuring the smooth coordination of the exercise.
“The success of this census is a stepping stone. It is now up to us to use these insights to strengthen conservation initiatives and protect our natural heritage. Let us continue this journey together.”
Present in the meeting were representatives from the State Department for Wildlife, Kenya Wildlife Service, Save the Elephants, WWF-Kenya, Born Free Kenya, Directorate of Resource Surveys and Remote Sensing, Loisaba Conservancy, WYSS Academy for Nature.
A dedicated joint team is currently verifying and validating the collected data in preparation for analysis and report writing.
About The Author
