MOMBASA, Kenya – Women are driving conservation change throughout Kenya by revitalising ecosystems, safeguarding species, and establishing sustainable livelihoods.
These women are taking the lead in preserving ecosystems, defending animals, and creating communities that are adaptable to climate change, from reclaiming mangrove forests to advocating for circular economy solutions.
The trailblazers have received recognition for their efforts to preserve the environment, demonstrating that every action matters in building a sustainable future.
While women have always been at the forefront of caring for the earth, their leadership in formal conservation roles has often been stifled by institutional and cultural barriers.
What are the barriers limiting women’s involvement in conservation
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) reports that women hold just 23% of senior positions in environmental organisations, while the WWF’s 2020 Gender and Conservation Report shows they make up less than 30% of global conservation professionals.
A 2019 UNEP report highlights that women represent only 17% of members on environmental governing boards.
These statistics reflect the systemic barriers limiting women’s advancement.
These include structural and institutional obstacles such as gender roles and abilities, which lead to biases in hiring, promotions and salary decisions, to name a few.
We aim to empower and create an enabling environment for #youngwomen in conservation to reduce inequalities for an inclusive climate resilient society. 🌎💚♻️#ClimateAction #YoungWomenLead #WasteToResource
However, Y News highlights some of these women, who, through their roles as carers, resource gatherers, and farmers, demonstrated reliance on natural resources for their livelihood, making them highly attuned to environmental changes and driving them to develop adaptative strategies and preserve ecological knowledge through cultural traditions.
Who are some of the Kenyan women who have advanced in conservation
For instance, Christine Sajin, a member of the Sokole Community Forest Association who doubles up as a mangrove conservationist, has so far planted over 20,000 seedlings, restoring four hectares and generating income for her community.
On the other hand, Claris Kabibi, community scout, Gede Community Forest Association, is a dedicated community scout who safeguards Mida Creek and the Arabuko Sokole Forest, ensuring their protection.
Emily Katana is a community scout at the Kipepea Women’s Self-help Group and empowers women in Mida Creek through beekeeping and butterfly farming, promoting nature-based enterprises.
Susan Omingo is the chairperson, Pwani Circular Economy (PCEA). She is a champion of the circular economy, transforms plastic waste into business opportunities, and fights pollution in Mombasa County.
Rachel Nywa is a climate-smart farmer attached to the Cede Community Forest Association. Amid the devastating effects of climate change, Rachel is growing drought-resistant fodder to support livestock and ensure food security.
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Faith Mwende, founder of Sea Ventures, turns waste into value, reducing environmental impact and creating economic opportunities.
Ruth Karisa is a turtle conservator at the Bahari Hai. Ruth is at the forefront of leading women in turtle conservation and mangrove restoration, proving that every action counts in protecting marine life.
Meanwhile, Queen Hare, Alternative Livelihood and Environmentalist Coordinator-Bahari Hai, merges conservation with education, empowering communities with knowledge for a sustainable future.
Tabitha Ndombolo Mjala, a game warden at the Kasigau Wildlife Conservancy ranger in the Tsavo Ecosystem within Taita Taveta County, works closely with the local community in curbing cases of human-wildlife conflict.
Why women involved in conservation efforts must be empowered
It should not go without mentioning that women working in conservation, like Mjala, also face unique safety concerns, both in the field and in the office.
But dismantling these barriers is essential, not just for gender equality but for making conservation efforts more impactful.
Y News understands that for a long time, conservation has traditionally been a male-dominated field, yet women have always been integral to the protection of our planet.
But it is now emerging that when women are given the space to lead, they bring fresh ideas, innovative solutions, and a deeply rooted commitment to sustainability.
So, against this backdrop, these women are not just changemakers; they are the future of conservation.
