Kenya Wildlife Research and Training Institute

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Overview

  • Act: Wildlife Conservation and Management Act, 2013
  • Formed: 2020
  • CEO: Dr Patrick Omondi
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The Kenya Wildlife Research and Training Institute (KWRTI), established under the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act of 2013 and operational since 2020, focuses on wildlife research and conservation. Its mandate includes conducting scientific research, ecological monitoring, and capacity building for conservation professionals. KWRTI also promotes sustainable conservation practices, supports policy development, and engages communities to raise awareness on wildlife protection. By managing biodiversity data and developing innovative solutions, KWRTI plays a vital role in addressing Kenya’s conservation challenges and advancing effective wildlife management​.

CEO: Dr Patrick Omondi

Dr. Patrick Omondi, OGW holds a PhD in Animal Ecology from the University of Nairobi. With over 30 years in wildlife conservation, he has contributed to Kenya’s National Wildlife Strategy and held leadership roles in species conservation and biodiversity management across Africa​.

Management Team

Dr Patrick Omondi

DIRECTOR/CEO

Dr. DAVID NDEEREH

Deputy Director Research

Dr. ROSELYN AGUMBA ONYURO

Deputy Director- Training

CPA JOHN MUCHEMI MWANGI

Deputy Director- Corporate Services

CAPTAIN COLLINS WANDERI

Corporation Secretary / Head Of Legal Services

NELLY AKO

Head Internal Audit

NELLY CAROLINE KUBOKA

Head Planning, Partnership & Resource Mobilization

ANN MELIKI MUTISYA

Head Human Resource & Administration

DR. STEPHEN KARANJA

Head Of Information Communications Technology

CPA SHEILA MUKANZI

Head Finance and Accounts

GRACE WANJIRU KARANJA

Head Corporate Communications & Customer Service

LUKE NAJULO

Head Supply Chain Management

SIMON NGUGI

Head Hospitality and Enterprise Development

Board of Governors

Dr David Nkedianye

Chairman

Daniel Letoiye

Board Member

Sylvia Museiya

Principal Secretary, State Department of Wildlife

Dr Chris Kiptoo

Principal Secretary for National Treasury

Dr Patrick Omondi

CEO

Dr Beatrice Inyangala

PS, State Department for Higher Education and Research Ministry Of Education

Dr. Yussuf Adan

Board Member

Francis Nkoitoi

Board Member

Dr Albert Long’ora

Board Member

Margaret Kariuki

Board Member

Brian Cheruiyot

Board Member

Functions

  • Conducting Scientific Research: KWRTI leads studies on wildlife species, their behaviors, and habitat needs to inform and support conservation strategies.
  • Data Collection and Management: It gathers, processes, and maintains ecological and wildlife data for accurate assessments of conservation efforts and biodiversity trends.
  • Capacity Building and Training Programs: KWRTI offers specialized training for conservation professionals, students, and stakeholders to develop skills essential for wildlife management.
  • Policy Development Support: The institute advises on wildlife policies by providing scientific insights that shape laws and regulations impacting biodiversity.
  • Promoting Sustainable Conservation: Through research and policy input, KWRTI encourages practices that balance conservation with economic activities, ensuring ecological sustainability.
  • Biodiversity and Resource Management: KWRTI oversees projects that manage wildlife resources, such as habitat restoration and species reintroduction programs.
  • Community Education and Awareness: KWRTI works with local communities to increase awareness and foster collaboration on conservation initiatives, enhancing local ownership and support.
  • Strengthening Sectoral Capacity: It builds sector capacity through partnerships with governmental and non-governmental organizations, enhancing the wildlife management sector’s capabilities.
  • Ecological Monitoring: KWRTI monitors ecosystem health and species populations to detect changes and respond effectively to environmental pressures, including climate change.
  • Innovating Conservation Solutions: The institute develops new techniques and methods for wildlife conservation, addressing challenges such as human-wildlife conflict, invasive species, and poaching.

Important Links

Address & Contacts

  • Kenya Wildlife Research and Training Institute
  • P.O. Box 842-20117, Naivasha, Kenya.
  • director@wrti.go.ke / wrti@wrti.go.ke
  • 0700 000 321 / 0731 919 465