Boots on the ground podcast

Faustina Mwololo shares her journey from growing up in Kibra to leading youth-driven environmental initiatives and influencing global conservation efforts. This episode highlights the power of local action, youth participation, and indigenous knowledge in creating a sustainable future for Africa. key topics Faustina's background and early environmental awareness The creation of briquettes from...

summary Immaculee Namahirwe shares her journey from understanding conservation as simply protecting trees and wildlife to recognizing the interconnectedness of people and nature. She discusses her work empowering marginalized women in Rwanda through climate action and sustainable livelihoods, including planting grafted avocado trees to address nutrition and climate challenges. key topics ✔️The shi...

In this episode, Brian Kaelo shares his journey from growing up in the Mara to becoming a conservation scientist. He discusses the changes in the landscape, the importance of community involvement, and the role of technology and innovation in conservation. key topics Growing up in the Mara and early interactions with wildlife Changes in the Mara landscape over 25 years Community benefits from cons...

In this episode, Christina Hagen shares her journey into conservation, focusing on the plight of African penguins, their ecological importance, threats they face, and innovative conservation strategies. Discover how international collaboration, community engagement, and scientific research are vital to saving this iconic species. key topics The ecological role of African penguins Major threats: ov...

In this episode, Antony Nampaso shares his journey into wildlife conservation, the importance of data in protecting ecosystems, and the vital role of community engagement. Discover how a passion for nature turned into a calling and the impact of data-driven conservation efforts in the Maasai Mara. key topics Antony Nampaso's conservation journey from childhood The role of data and technology i...

In this episode, Dr. Lorraine Shuttleworth shares her journey into marine conservation, focusing on whale physiology, the marine big five, and innovative technologies transforming wildlife monitoring. Discover how her research and conservation efforts are making a difference for endangered species like the African penguin. Enjoy and be inspired🎙️💚

In a world where storytelling shapes perceptions and understanding, few voices resonate as deeply as that of Jonathan Benaya, a conservation storyteller from Uganda. With a unique blend of filmmaking, photography, and writing, Jonathan has dedicated his life to revealing the beauty and complexities of Africa's natural world. In this post, we explore his journey and insights into the art of sto...

Akshay shares his journey from youth outdoor activities to founding Just Act, a citizen-driven environmental organization in Kenya. He discusses the importance of citizen participation in conservation, legal civic tools, and the long-term vision for Kenya's environmental future. key topics Akshay's journey into conservation and activism The role of citizen participation in environmental pr...

This insightful interview features conservation experts Dominic Mutali, working at Mugie Wildlife Conservancy in Laikipia, and Derek Wanjala from Save the Elephants in Tsavo, discussing their work in human-wildlife coexistence, community engagement, and innovative solutions to mitigate human-elephant conflict in Kenya. Discover practical methods, success stories, and future opportunities for conse...

In this insightful interview, Dr. Winnie Kiiru discusses the complexities of human-wildlife conflict in Africa, emphasizing the importance of community involvement, long-term strategies, and credible leadership in conservation efforts. She shares personal stories, leadership lessons, and hope for the future of Africa's wildlife. Enjoy and be Inspired💚🎙️

Imara Njeri, a conservation creative and wildlife guide, shares her journey from city life to wildlife conservation in Kenya. Discover how she uses creativity to make conservation engaging, the importance of local narratives, and her insights on big cats, wildlife photography, and inspiring the next generation. key topics Imara Njeri’s journey from city life to wildlife conservation Using creativi...

Most grassroots voices are ignored in global climate politics — until now. Dorcas Naishorua, Miss Climate Kenya 2023-2025 and fierce advocate from Kajiado County, shares how her lived experiences as a Maasai woman are reshaping climate leadership from the ground up. Growing up as a pastoralist girl facing drought, water scarcity, and cultural barriers, Dorcas reveals how her personal journey ignit...

In this inspiring episode, 13-year-old Alana Chelangat from Kenya discusses her journey into climate activism, her projects, and her vision for a sustainable future. Gain insights into how youth are shaping the climate conversation and learn how storytelling, education, and resilience can lead to impactful change. Main Topics: Alana’s early motivation and first encounter with climate issues in Tur...

Join us as we explore the impactful work of Laikipia Wildlife Forum with Program Officer Peter Mathenge Mwangi. Discover their conservation strategies, community engagement, and innovative projects that protect Kenya's wildlife and landscapes. EnjoyEnjoy💚🎙️

Welcome back to Boots on the Ground , the podcast where we spotlight the voices shaping the future of conservation from the frontlines. Today’s episode features an extraordinary leader whose work is redefining what conservation looks like across Africa. At just 33, Peter Fredrick Moll — also known by his Maa name Saitoti , meaning “the one who takes care of others” — is helping lead a powerful shi...

From the heart of the Maasai Mara, where the wild still writes its own stories, comes a voice shaped by survival, tradition, and the spirit of the land. Meet Saito Mike — born Mike Saitoti ole Morijoi — a boy who once wandered lost in the wilderness for five days… and lived to tell a story protected by a lioness. Raised herding cattle across the open savannah, his journey grew into something extra...

In this episode of the Boots on the Ground podcast, Rosebell Abwonji shares her journey from a city girl in Nairobi to a prominent figure in conservation. She discusses her unexpected entry into the field, the importance of storytelling in conservation, and the need for gender inclusion and community engagement. Rosebell emphasizes the significance of understanding cultural dynamics and the power...

In this conversation, Alex Lekishon shares his journey from the hospitality industry to conservation, emphasizing the vital connection between tourism and conservation. He discusses the importance of effective communication in documenting impact and engaging communities, as well as the challenges and successes he has faced in his role. Lekishon highlights the need for inclusivity in conservation e...

In this episode of the Boots on the Ground podcast, Erika Tavares shares her inspiring journey from a young girl in Angola to a passionate advocate for environmental conservation. She discusses her motivations for pursuing a career in environmental biology, the founding of Eco Angola, and the innovative projects aimed at educating the youth and promoting sustainability. Erika emphasizes the import...

In this episode of the Boots on the Ground podcast, Ambrose Letoluai shares his inspiring journey from a small village in Northern Kenya to becoming a renowned conservationist and leopard researcher. He discusses the importance of indigenous knowledge in conservation, the challenges of human-wildlife conflict, and the empowerment of local communities, especially women, in conservation efforts. Amb...

Happy World Rhino Day!! In this new episode of the Boots on the Ground podcast, Dr. Philip Muruthi shares his extensive journey in conservation, highlighting the importance of community involvement, innovative solutions, and the need for a holistic approach to wildlife protection. He discusses the successes in rhino conservation, the role of technology, and the significance of educating and inspir...

In this episode of the Boots on the Ground podcast, Florence Wakio, a ranger and drone pilot, shares her inspiring journey in wildlife conservation. Growing up in a wildlife-rich area, she felt a responsibility to protect nature. Florence discusses her dynamic role as a ranger, the impact of drone technology on wildlife monitoring and anti-poaching efforts, and the challenges she faces in a male-d...

In this third episode of the Boots on the Ground special new series 'Ethics in Wildlife Tourism', Felix Ongoma emphasizes the importance of local community involvement in conservation efforts. He shares insights on responsible and sustainable tourism, addressing common misconceptions and the role of tourism companies in educating travelers. Felix highlights the need for sustainable practic...

In this second episode of our new series 'Ethics in Wildlife Tourism', I'm chatting with Adam Bannsiter. Adam shares his journey from a scientific background to becoming a leading wildlife guide and conservationist. He discusses the evolution of ecotourism in East Africa, the importance of ethical guiding, and the need to reshape guest expectations towards more sustainable experiences....

In this episode of the Boots on the Ground podcast, Mercy Onyango shares her journey from her upbringing in Kenya to her current role as a sustainability manager at Soroi Collection. She discusses the evolution of wildlife tourism, the importance of responsible practices, and the critical role of community engagement in conservation efforts. Mercy emphasizes the need for ethical tourism, the chall...