LAMU, Kenya — From the quiet shores of Kiwayuu in Lamu County to national and international recognition, Rukiya Mohamed has carved out a historic place in Kenya’s conservation landscape as the only female snake handler in the Coast Conservation Area.
Trained through the Kenya Wildlife Service’s (KWS) rigorous paramilitary ranger programme, Rukiya broke entrenched gender barriers to enter one of the most feared and male-dominated specialisations in wildlife conservation.
Her work involves rescuing, handling, and safely relocating snakes that stray into human settlements — a role that demands precision, courage, and deep ecological knowledge.
KWS says Rukiya’s journey reflects resilience and discipline in an area where fear often dictates outcomes.
“Where fear dominates, Rukiya leads with knowledge,” the agency said, noting that her interventions have saved both human lives and wildlife, particularly in coastal communities where encounters with snakes are common.
Instead of killing snakes — a frequent response driven by panic — Rukiya promotes coexistence, educating communities on snake behaviour, safety and ecological importance.
Her work has helped reduce human-wildlife conflict while fostering respect for reptiles, often misunderstood and demonised.
Impact Beyond Rescue Operations
Beyond emergency response, Rukiya plays a key role in community education, helping residents distinguish between venomous and non-venomous species and understand how habitat disruption contributes to increased encounters.
KWS officials say her approach has transformed community attitudes, turning fear into awareness and prevention.
In a conservation sector increasingly emphasising community-led solutions, her work underscores the importance of trust, communication, and gender inclusion in environmental protection.
National and International Recognition
Rukiya’s impact has not gone unnoticed. She has been featured on Citizen TV’s Mwanamke Bomba and was named among the Top 20 Most Impactful Women in Kenya (2026), honours that highlight her influence beyond conservation circles.
She now mentors young women interested in conservation and wildlife protection, encouraging them to pursue careers traditionally viewed as inaccessible.
Redefining Leadership in Conservation
KWS says Rukiya’s story challenges stereotypes about who belongs in frontline conservation roles.
“She is not just a ranger,” the agency said. “She is a victor over fear.”
As Kenya pushes for inclusive conservation models that integrate gender equity, community engagement, and biodiversity protection, Rukiya Mohamed’s journey stands as a powerful example of how courage and expertise can reshape both ecosystems and social norms.
