Idah Murithi

How are you using education to build more sustainable and equitable communities? Tell us about your EE work and impact.

Through educational programs and workshops, I raise awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation and the challenges posed by human-wildlife conflicts. By providing communities with a deeper understanding of the issues, I promote empathy and encourage responsible behavior towards wildlife and their habitats. Currently, I work with 16 schools in Northern Kenya where we have over 400 registered conservation club members in both primary and secondary schools. Through our continuous efforts we have seen great impact in both the physical ecosystem and in the community with regards to their coexistence with wildlife.

Tell us about your journey to where you are today. What inspired you? What has your path been like?

My conservation journey began with a heart-wrenching experience of witnessing human-wildlife conflict and its effects on both human and wildlife communities. To me, this was a thorn in the flesh.  Determined to make a difference, I immersed myself in conservation education, collaborating with communities and experts to understand the complexities of coexistence. What was most inspiring to me was Dr. Lucy King’s research and work with the Elephant and Bees Project where she advocated for the use of traditional methods to deter elephants from farmlands. With this knowledge,I began experimenting with using beekeeping and advocacy as tools to foster coexistence between elephants and communities living alongside them. Each step taken has been driven by an unwavering commitment to alleviate suffering and create a future where harmony between humans and wildlife thrives. Through education and collective efforts, I believe positive transformation is possible, inspiring hope for a more sustainable and compassionate world.

A Little More About Me

What book, film, or art piece has had the greatest impact on you?

I will be a hummingbird by Wangari Maathai was definitely what inspired the eureka moment for me. It empowered me to believe in the significance of my efforts, no matter how modest they may seem.

If a genie granted you one wish, what would it be?

Owning a wildlife rehabilitation center in conflict-prone regions of Kenya. It would be a beacon of compassion where wounded souls could find solace, and where majestic elephants, innocent victims of poaching, could receive the love and care they deserve, nurturing dreams of a safer and harmonious world for all living beings.

What’s your favorite food to celebrate with?

It’s not a celebration till I've had my Viazi Karai.

What are your hobbies?

Creative writing for conservation. Here is my latest story.