🐘 Tembo, Ticks and Trauma: Exploring Human-Wildlife Conflict

Wildlife & Livestock Health Workshop | Edition Five

Aug 01, 2025

SIMON KARIUKI

Executive Committee Member , Walters Greenbelt Initiative

Liked by Thirza Loffeld and 4 others

Join wildlife health specialists John and Margaret Cooper for a compelling dive into the rising challenge of human-wildlife conflict. From veterinary insights to grassroots stories, this hybrid event explores the ecological and emotional dimensions of coexisting with wildlife, particularly elephants ("tembo"), whose presence evokes both cultural reverence and community tension.

Highlights include:

🎙️ A seminar unpacking human-wildlife dynamics through veterinary and conservation lenses
🧪 A hands-on field activity for in-person attendees at Mpala Research Centre
🌍 A shared learning space for researchers, storytellers, students, and local community members

Whether you're a conservationist, pastoralist, policymaker, or passionate learner, this workshop offers an open door to listen, learn, and collaborate.

📅 Date: Monday, August 11th, 2025, 🕘 Time: 10:00am EAT 📍 Location: Mpala Research Centre 💻 RSVP: Register here for in-person or virtual attendance

Let’s rethink conflict and cohabitation, one tick, one trauma, one story at a time.

SIMON KARIUKI (He/Him)

Executive Committee Member , Walters Greenbelt Initiative

I am a recent graduate from the Wildlife Research and Training Institute, with a passion for conservation and a diverse set of skills honed through hands-on experience.

During my attachment program at Kisite Mpunguti Marine Park and my volunteer work with Reefolution Trust, I have gained invaluable expertise in:

Coral Restoration: Engaging in coral planting, nursery maintenance, and out-planting to rejuvenate marine ecosystems.

Marine Debris Cleanups: Organizing and participating in cleanups to protect our oceans.

Community Engagement: Facilitating group discussions and outreach programs to foster local involvement in conservation efforts.

Data Collection and Entry: Gathering and managing data crucial for research and conservation projects.

Human-Wildlife Conflict Resolution: Developing strategies to mitigate conflicts between humans and wildlife.

My interests are deeply rooted in:

Wildlife Protection: Advocating for and implementing measures to safeguard endangered species.

Environmental Education: Sharing knowledge and raising awareness through my Twitter (X) page.

Habitat Restoration: Participating in projects aimed at restoring damaged ecosystems.

Community Engagement: Collaborating with local communities to develop sustainable conservation strategies.

Policy and Advocacy: Working on policies to support and enhance conservation efforts.

While I currently possess a broad range of skills, I am eager to specialize further and make a significant impact in the conservation community. Being part of the Wild Hub would provide me with the perfect opportunity to refine my expertise and contribute meaningfully to global conservation efforts.