Applicant notifications on access to genetic resources
Application for Access permit
NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AND CO-ORDINATION ACT
(No. 8 of 1999)
NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY
INVITATION FOR PUBLIC COMMENTS
Pursuant to legal notice No. 160 of Environmental Management and coordination (Conservation of Biodiversity and Resource, Access to Genetic resources and Benefit Sharing) regulations, 2006 the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has received application for access permit for the following
ACCESS TO GENETIC RESOURCES
Details of Applicant
Name: Mr. Juma Kibisu
Project title
Environmental Sampling to Study the Impact of Regenerative Farming on Biodiversity in Coffee Plantations in Kenya
Sponsor
Techno Serve.
Activity
Non-destructive collection of soil and water samples
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Water and Soil samples
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Kirinyaga County.
Methods to be used
Sampling will be done in Coffee farms, intact forest habitat and Staple cropland.
Project duration
August 31, 2025
Purpose of Research
1. To compare the richness and abundance in micro- and macro fauna between coffee farms with high and low levels of regenerative practices adopted.
2) To benchmark the biodiversity on coffee plantations with the richness found in nearby intact habitats and on cereal croplands.
3) To assess the impact of regenerative farming practices on the richness and abundance of pollinators and predators higher up in the food chain.
4) To evaluate the effectiveness of regenerative farming practices in enhancing biodiversity.
Research Beneficiaries
1. Enhanced biodiversity: The study will provide insights into how regenerative farming practices can improve biodiversity, contributing to healthier ecosystems. By engaging with the community, the project aims to promote sustainable agricultural practices and contribute to the conservation of biodiversity in the region.
2. Sustainable agriculture: Findings will support the promotion of sustainable farming practices, potentially improving coffee yield and quality.
3. Informed policy making: Data-driven recommendations will aid policymakers in developing strategies to promote regenerative farming.
4. Increased coffee incomes: Scientific evidence for a positive impact of regenerative farming practices on the local biodiversity richness and abundance would allow regenerative coffee farms may to charge a premium to customers, boosting the local economy.
ACCESS TO GENETIC RESOURCES
Details of Applicant
Name: Boniface Nyarega
Project title
Comprehensive sampling of the Ledebouriinae (Scilloideae, Asparagaceae) in Africa
Sponsor
Oklahoma State University.
Activity
Additional samples from across the distribution of the Ledebouriinae to be collected to better resolve the phylogenetic relationships within the group as well as to improve the understanding of fine scale biogeographical processes
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Ledebouriinae (Scilloideae, Asparagaceae)
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Kwale, Kitui, Makueni, Taita Taveta, and Trans Nzoia Counties.
Methods to be used
Seeds, leaves, live bulbs and tubers.
Project duration
November 2024 – May 31, 2025
Purpose of Research
- To collect living organisms and herbarium Ledebouriinae from across sub-Saharan Africa
- Gather DNA sequence data for phylogenomic and population genomic analysis
- Build a living collection of Ledebouriinae at Oklahama State University for detailed studies
- Build upon and further collaborations with researchers at local Universities and herbaria
Research Beneficiaries
Scientists and students will benefit from the improved collections of Ledebouriinae that will be housed in the National Museums of Kenya (NMK), Herbier National du Gabon (HNG), National Herbarium of Cameroon (HCN), National Herbarium of Tanzania (NHT), the National Herbarium (US), and Oklahoma State University (OKLA). TYPE specimens of all newly described species will be deposited in NMK, HNG, HCN, and NHT. DNA voucher specimens reported in NCBI GenBank will be linked to herbarium specimens housed at these institutions, further increasing their value. Improved living collections will allow for ex-situ conservation of potentially important species and allow for deeper genomic (i.e., whole genome sequencing) and morphological investigations by the lead and PI and other researchers..
ACCESS TO GENETIC RESOURCES
Details of Applicant
Name
Prof. Samuel Thumbi
Project title
Identification of factors influencing zoonotic transmission of Middle East Respiratory
Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CORONAVIRUS) in Kenya
Objectives of the Research
To understand the fundamental ecological, epidemiological and molecular factors that
influence zoonotic transmission of MERS-CoV to humans and prevent future epidemics.
This study will establish diagnostic and research infrastructure for MERS-CoV at the
University of Nairobi to enhance early detection and control of MERS outbreaks as well
as increase the capacity for MERS –CoV research in the region through PhD training
and post-doctoral research fellowship
Methods to be used
Blood samples will be collected from 480 high-risk individuals presenting themselves in
the study facility with history of severe ling infections and contact with dromedary
camels for testing of MERS-CoV Using PCR. Respiratory and blood samples will be
collected from 500 juvenile and adults camels and tested for MERS-CoV and virus
isolation for positive cases. The serological testing algorithm will include a MERS-CoV
antibody ELISA or seraSpot and confirmation by recombinant MERS-CoV spike protein-
based immunofluorescence test, virus neutralization test and IGRA
Sponsor/Collaborators
German research council (DFG)
Specific research questions
1. Are there any undetected human cases in Kenya?
2. How does dromedary migration influence MERS-CoV evolution and virus outbreaks
or transmission to humans?
3. Are genetic or phenotypic difference between African and Arabic MERS-CoV variants
a reason for different epidemiology?
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Whole virus of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV)
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Isiolo County camel abattoir, Isiolo County
Project duration.
Expected commencement date 2 nd September 2024
Research Purpose
To determine the undetected human cases of MERS-CoV in Kenya and list the factors
associated with the transmission if zoonotic disease to humans.
- DETAILS OF THE APPLICANT:
Dr. Jens Zinke
Research assistant professor, UWA/AIMS
University of Western Australia, 35 stirling Highway – WA 6009 crawley.
PROJECT TITTLE:
Evaluating Current Responses and Projecting the Effects of Climate Change on WIO and Reef Ecosystem from Historical Variability.
SPONSOR:
The project is supported by a WIOMSA MASMA grant and the advanced Geochemical Facility for Indian Ocean Research at the University of Western Australia in collaboration with Stanford University (US) and RWTH Aachen (GERMANY)
ACTIVITY:
Drilling of cores from living massive porites sp. Corals along a transect covering Mombasa, Malindi and Tana Coral Reefs.
Sample coral fragments from ancient Swahili ruins to date the Swahili settlements precisely and to simultaneously reconstruct the climate that prevailed during the various settlement periods for the past 1000 years.
The primary objective is to determine the seasonal variability in sea surface temperature (SST), the hydrological balance and sediment river discharge due to climate changes, foremost of year and decadal-scale variability. The climate baseline includes hydrological re-organization during e.g. the medieval warm period around 800-1200 AD, the Little Ice Age around 1550-1850 AD.
METHODS TO BE USED
Use commercially available hand-held pneumatic air tool (RODCRAFT) with a working pressure of 6 bars. One dive cylinder of 220 bars is needed to drill 30cm of coral core section. Each 30cm core section is broken at the base to remove the single pieces. The drill holes in the massive corals will be plugged with concrete cylinders to prevent bio-eroding organisms to damage and weaken the corals.
The element analysis will be done at the advanced Geochemical Facility for Indian Ocean Research (AGFIOR) at the University of Western Australia in Perth and at the RWTH Aachen in Germany.
Stable isotopes will be measured at Stanford University (US) in the lab of Prof. Rob Dunbar.
PROJECT DURATION
13th June 2014 to 31st may 2017
PURPOSE OF THE RESEARCH:
The study proposes to examine the spatial and temporal environmental changes affecting coastal ecosystems and livelihoods in the western Indian Ocean on a historical time scale covering the last 1000 years.
- DETAILS OF THE APPLICANT:
Prof. Susan Claire Alberts
Department Of Biology
Duke University, 2813 Mcdowellrd-27705 Durham,Nc.
PROJECT TITTLE:
Research on Demography and behavior of baboons in Amboseli Ecosystem, Kenya
ACTIVITY:
Designing sampling protocols and analysis of samples that include blood, feaces, hair and tissues from the study populations of baboons in Amboseli Ecosystem.
PROJECT DURATION
11th September 2015 to 30th September 2018
PURPOSE OF THE RESEARCH:
The study will generate data and information to enhance conservation and management of species in Amboseli Ecosystem
- DETAILS OF THE APPLICANT:
Dr. Daniel Rubenstein
Department Of ecology and evolutionary biology
Princeton University
25 East Frank Line Road, Pennington, New Jersey, USA 08534
PROJECT TITTLE:
Research on Wildlife behavior, ecology and ranging about vegetation, predation and livestock in the greater Laikipia-Samburu ecosystem.
ACTIVITY:
I am collecting fecal specimens from a variety of wildlife species including equine, bovine, elephant, hippopotamus, caprine, porcine, murine, canine, reptile, feline, and laporidae species.
They will be collected non-invasively after the animal has deposited the feces. The feces will be used for DNA analysis to identify the specific species fed upon.
A sample of the collected feces to be thoroughly dried and analyzed for nutrients contents. Sample of the vegetation to be collected as baseline reference, which will be similarly dried and tested for nutrients.
METHODS TO BE USED
Deploy 16 radio collars, divided evenly between the two species, and between the sexes, and distributed across the geographic area where population survey is conducted.
Use permutation tests to identify differences between the two species in their movement responses to bottom-up, top-down, and competitive forces. Used an array of statistical techniques to learn much from the rich data set primarily focusing on permutation tests and Bayesian Monte Carlo Approaches.
Test the balance between forage and water use by measuring various spatiotemporal statistics relating to water use and proximity, including distance from water, temporal correlations in such distances, and interval between successive visits to water.
PROJECT DURATION
The project will run for 5 years
PURPOSE OF THE RESEARCH:
The study proposes to investigate the forces shaping interindividual interactions as well as interspecies interactions as affected by bottom-up factors ( food and water), top-down factors (predation and diseases) , and side-ways factors (completion fir resources and mutualism) , among the community of herbivorous in central Kenya.
NOTE:
The full documentation of the proposed activities is available during working hours at national environmental authority (NEMA) headquarters, popo road, off Mombasa road, P.O. BOX 67839-00200 Nairobi, Tel 020-2183718. Email: dgnema@nema.go.ke Web : www.nema.go.ke
Prof. Geoffrey Wahungu
Director General
National Environment Management Authority
ACCESS TO GENETIC RESOURCES
Details of Applicant: Finote Aster Gijsman Kelemu
Project title
Disentangling Ecological Cascades. How the Loss of Megafauna affect Dung Beetle Food Webs and Ecosystem Services in African Savanna.
Sponsor
Rufford Foundation (6,000 Euros) and the Princeton Institute for International and Regional Studies (5,200 Euros).
Activity
Disentangling Ecological Cascades.
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Dung Beetles (Coleoptera: Scarabaedae) (Tissues, Microbial gut contents).
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Mpala Research Centre, Laikipia, Kenya (00 17’ N 370 52’ E)
Methods to be used
Pitfall traps consisting of cups buried flush with the ground and baited with 20g of fresh herbivore dung.
Project duration
July 2023-2025
Purpose of Research
- Characterize Dung Beetle communities across seasons and environmental gradients to; Establish which species of dung beetles are present at Mpala Research Center, Describe dung beetle food preferences across seasons and environmental gradients to understand patterns of community assembly and Facilitate dung beetle taxonomy and species identification by creating a barcode library of specimens collected at Mpala Research Center.
- Uncover the chemical mechanisms driving Dung Beetle interactions with Large Mammalian Herbivores to; Characterize the odor profiles of LMH dung and identify diagnostic chemicals and assess the attractiveness of dung and their diagnostic odors to dung beetles.
- Examine the effects of species richness on species-mediated ecological processes to; Evaluate ecosystem services (dung removal, nutrient cycling) provided by dung beetle assemblages of different sizes (i.e., species numbers).
The research aims at understanding of the structure and composition of dung beetle communities in African savannas.
ACCESS TO GENETIC RESOURCES
Details of Applicant: Charles Kivasu Maingi
Project title
Social and Environmental Factors Affecting Fecal Glucocorticoids in Wild Female Tana River Mangabeys (Cercocebus galeritus).
Sponsor
Support from the Rutgers University (Internal funding).
Activity
Social and Environmental Factors Affecting Fecal Glucorticoids.
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Wild Female Tana River Mangabeys (Fecal samples).
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Lower Tana River forest fragments, Tana River Primate National Reserve.
Methods to be used: Habituation of groups and follow-up where samples will be collected non-invasively - Opportunically once feaces are dropped from a known individual.
Project duration
Saturday, July 01, 2023
Purpose of Research
- Determine the effect of environmental factors on the social behaviors of female Tana River Mangabeys.
- Determine effect of social behavior on the fecal glucocorticoids (GCs) metabolites levels among the Tana River Mangabeys.
- Determine effect of reproductive state on the seasonal variation of fecal GCs metabolites of female individuals.
The research aims at understanding the social and environmental factors affecting Fecal Glucocorticoids in Tana River.
ACCESS TO GENETIC RESOURCES
Details of Applicant
Name: Dr. Ben Jonathan Evans
Project title
Sex chromosomes of the Marsabit Clawed frog, Xenopus borealis and other insights into frog diversity in Kenya.
Sponsor
Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada.
Activity
Sex chromosomal determination in frogs Xenopus borealis.
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Frogs (Xenopus borealis).
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Taita Taveta, Kwale and Kakamega.
Methods to be used
Baited traps made from buckets, and hand held nets.
Project duration
June 1, 2022 – May 31, 2032
Purpose of Research
Study how sex determination works in X. borealis.
Contribute to understanding and documentation of amphibian (frog) diversity in Kenya.
The research aims at studying and understanding sex chromosomes in frogs.
ACCESS TO GENETIC RESOURCES
Details of Applicant
Name Dr. Nicholas Pilfold
Project title
Social and Environmental Factors Affecting Fecal Glucocorticoids in Wild Female Tana River Mangabeys (Cercocebus galeritus).
Sponsor
Zoological Society of San Diego d/b/a San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance (SDZWA).
Activity
Integrating ecological and social science into community- based conservation.
Genetic Resource to be accessed
African Leopard (Panthera pardus pardus)
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Laikipia, Isiolo and Samburu counties.
Methods to be used
Non- invasive collection in the environment and immobilization.
Project duration
September 2023 – August 2024
Purpose of Research
- Mitigate Human Leopard conflicts in Northern Kenya’s rangelands.
The research aims at understanding the drivers of Human- Wildlife conflicts.
ACCESS TO GENETIC RESOURCES
Details of Applicant
Name :Paul Odhiambo Mireji
Project title
Expanding the Toolbox for Tsetse control in Kenya.
Sponsor
National Institutes of Health - National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIH-NIAID), (Grant No: R01AI169503)
Activity
Tsetse control in Kenya.
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Monitor Lizards, Bush Pigs, Warthogs, Antelopes and other bovines and angulates
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Ndere Island National Park, Shimba Hills National Reserve, Arabuko Sokoke National Reserve
Methods to be used
Bait traps.
Project duration
Friday, September 01, 2023
Purpose of Research
- Expand the toolbox available for tsetse population control.
- Develop Decision Support System (DSS) to monitor tsetse transmitted disease risk in Kenya.
The research aims at controlling tsetse fly transmitted diseases in Kenya.
ACCESS TO GENETIC RESOURCES
Details of Applicant
Name :Save The Elephants
Project title: Elephant Program of Save The Elephants.
Sponsor: Save The Elephants
Activity
Tracking the African Elephant through collaring.
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Elephants
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Samburu County, Marsabit County, Meru County, Laikipia County, Taita Taveta County, Kajiado County, Isiolo County
Methods to be used
Elephant Immobilization.
Project duration
Continuous
Purpose of Research
Determine the eco-evolutionary causes underlying the peculiarity of elephant social and reproductive behaviors.
Determine the environmental and anthropogenic factors affecting large-scale elephant movements in the Samburu-Laikipia and Tsavo ecosystems
Investigate the impact of human activities as drivers of elephant population dynamics, with special attention to illegal killings due ivory poaching and human-elephant conflicts, among other objectives.
The research aims at developing viable and innovative long term strategies for Elephant conservation.
ACCESS TO GENETIC RESOURCES
Details of Applicant
Name
Prof. Marina Ann Cords
Project title
The Kakamega Monkey Project: Blue monkey population monitoring for life history and
social behavior.
Sponsor
None
Activity
Monitoring the study population, including the life history and behavioral trends of
individual animals, in the unique ways possible when a population has a substantial
history of study.
Genetic Resource to be access
Blue monkey
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Kakamega forest station, Kakamega County
Methods to be used
Observational data collection
Project duration
Monday, January 15, 2024 to 2025
Purpose of Research
1. To enhance understanding of the reproductive biology and life history of
Kakamega Forest blue monkeys, including how these biological traits change
with age, social circumstances and environment.
2. To enhance understanding of the extent and significance of social variation, both
between and within groups, focusing on group size and within-group variation in
social profiles, and to see how such factors influence reproduction and survival.
3. To document rare but important social changes in the study animals and the
groups in which they live, such as group fissions, migrations and dynamic male
residence patterns; this documentation may contribute to Goals 1 and 2.
ACCESS TO GENETIC RESOURCES
Details of Applicant
Name
Regina Wamuyu Kihagi
Project title
Phytochemical and pharmacological assessment of isolates from Kenyan medicinal
plants.
Sponsor
KAAD
Activity
To evaluate the phytochemicals and screen for anticancer and neuropharmacological
activities of isolates extracted by ligand from the selected Kenyan medical plants.
Genetic Resource to be access
All plant parts: seeds, leaves, fruits, stem and root bark (Craterispermum schweinfurthii,
Vismia orientalis)
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Kakamenga Forest station
Methods to be used
Sample collection of seeds, stem, leaves and fruits.
Project duration
June, 2023 to end June, 2024
Purpose of Research
To determine the anticancer and neuropharmacological activities of crude extracts of
selected plant species from Kenyan flora
To determine the structures of the compounds isolated by chromatographic method
from extracts of selected plant species using spectroscopic methods.
To design nanoparticles from human serum albumin for ligand fishing of compounds
from the extracts of selected Kenyan flora.
To determine the anticancer and neuropharmacological activities of the compounds
isolated by chromatographic techniques and by ligand fishing.
ACCESS TO GENETIC RESOURCES
Details of Applicant
Name :Ms Maria Gorreti Onyango
Project title
Developng aedes aegypti saliva barcodes as a risk assessment tool for dengue
outbreaks in Kenya
Sponsor
American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
Activity
To assess the prevalence of Dengue virus field-infected mosquitoes in Busia,
Mombasa, Nairobi and Lodwar.
Genetic Resource to be access
Aedes species mosquitoes
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Mombasa and Busia
Methods to be used
BG sentinel trapping
Project duration
January 2024 to December 2024
Purpose of Research
To determine the transmission efficiency for Dengue virus of mosquito population from
these regions and to profile the salivary microbiome of both mosquito population and
associate this to the Dengue virus transmission patterns of those regions.
ACCESS TO GENETIC RESOURCES
Details of Applicant
Name
Dr. Anna Lacasta
Project title
Analysis of African swine fever (ASFV) spread model and immune response of warthog
against ASFV infection
Objectives of the Research
1. To evaluate the cellular immune response of ASF resistant warthogs and compared
to susceptible domestic pigs
2. To analyze the composition of feacal microbiota of warthogs and compare with
domestic pigs to identify key pig health-improving bacteria in the African continent
Methods to be used
For all animals, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) will be isolated from blood
in the presence of anticoagulant, cell populations will be characterized by means of flow
cytometry and subjected to in vitro infection with ASFV and the transcriptomics
evaluated via RNAseq and RT-qPCR at different time points after infection. Blood
samples will be also used to extract serum to perform routine assays, such as ELIZA to
detect virus and anti-ASFV antibodies, antigen screening and virus neutralization assay
(VNA). Faecal samples will be used to isolate DNA and sequencing to identify and
isolate key bacteria with potential pig health benefits in Africa
Sponsor
Rural Development Administration (RDA) of Republic of Korea
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Sus scrofa domesticus (domestic pigs) and Phacochoerus africanus (warthog)
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Nairobi and Machakos Counties
Project duration.
Expected to commence October 2024 to end December 2025
Research Purpose
To gather information on how different warthogs and domestic pics will react to virus
infection and evaluate the differences in immune cell profile and antibody profile in
warthogs compared to domestic pigs
ACCESS TO GENETIC RESOURCES
Details of Applicant
Name
DR Elise Schieck
Project title
Development of novel subunit vaccine for Contagious BovinePleuropneumonia
Objectives
1. To develop a challenge model to increase infection rates and subsequent Contagious
Bovine Pleuropneumonia (CBPP) disease
2. To conduct an on-site trial to compare the efficacy of the novel subunit vaccine for
CBPP to the existing live attenuated T1/44 vaccine (Contavax TM )
Activity for the project
1. Isolation of a more virulent Mmm strains
2. Develop an animal challenge model that results in 80% or more clinical and
pathological signs of CBPP
3. Production of pre-licensure vaccine batches and preparation of an outline/manual of
production
4. Trials conducted on-station to prepare the efficacy of the new subunit vaccine against
Contavax TM , a live attenuated TI/44 vaccine produced by KEVEVAPI
Methods to be used
Blood samples were collected through bleeding from live animals following the ILRI farm
SOPs approved by the IACUC.
Sponsor/Collaborators
International Development Research Centre
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Bos Indicus (Cattle)
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi campus
Project duration.
Expected commencement date Thursday, August 01, 2024
ACCESS TO GENETIC RESOURCES
Details of Applicant
Name
Dr Max Graham
Project title
Supporting broad scale wildlife elephant conservation goals guided by satellite tracking
technology
Objectives of the Research
1. Global scientific understanding of elephant ecology
2. The identification of key elephant corridors for conservation planning
3. Evaluating the performance of Human-Elephant conflicts mitigation measures
4. Assessment of general infrastructure development of elephant movement
Methods to be used
Deployment of 24 a total of satellite collars, the deployment period is proposed to be for
five years from January 2033-December 2027. We have proposed to deploy collars in
both Laikipia and Nyeri Counties
Sponsor/Collaborators
Kenya Wildlife Service, County Government of Laikipia, Laikipia Conservancies
Association, Space for Giants, Wildlife Research and Training Institute.
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Loxodanta africana
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Laikipia County
Project duration.
Period ending 2027
Output
Space for giants will manage the database for all collared elephants on daily basis to
ensure all collars are reporting as expected. Quarterly elephant management reports
detailing the movement of collared elephants will be shared with KWS HQ, KWS
Conservation Research Scientists and wardens, in addition space for giants will
produce weekly movement maps for all stakeholders.
Also space for giants will provide Kenya Wildlife Service with access to the secure
google earth tracking platform that is used to follow the collared elephants in real time
and collar status updates, the data provided by the platform will be shared with our
conservation partners: Loisaba
ACCESS TO GENETIC RESOURCES
Details of Applicant
Name
Stephen Kasyoki
Project title
Biodiversity of oribatid mites (Acari oribatida) in Forest and Agricultural ecosystems in
Taita Hills, Kenya
Objectives of the Research
1. To analyze the distribution and composition of oribatid mites in various ecosystems.
2. To investigate the oribatid mite species diversity of agricultural and forest ecosystem
3. To assess the effects of conversion of primary forest on oribatid mites communities
4. To investigate the potential influence of environmental factors on the biodiversity of
oribatid mites
Methods to be used
Collection of litter and soil corers. The mites will be extracted from the collected
materials using the modified Berlese-Tullgren funnels.
Sponsor
Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academic Sciences (IOZ-CAS), Address: 1 Beichen West
Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 1001001, P.R. China.
Aim of research
To assess and compare the biodiversity of oribatid mites (Acari oribatida) in forests and
in agricultural ecosystems
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Oribatid mites (Acari, oribatida)
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Taita-Taveta County, Taita Hills (Ngangao Indigenous Forest, Coffee Farm, Eucalyptus
Plantation and Cypress Plantation).
Project duration.
Period ending April 2025
Research output
To unravel biodiversity complexities of critically threatened Afromontane forests and
apply knowledge gained from this research to better understand the communities of soil
oribatid mites and their role in the ecosystem
ACCESS TO GENETIC RESOURCES
Details of Applicant
Name
Justus Mukavi
Project title
Natural products from Boxus obtusifolia (Midbr) Hutch. (Buxaceae) and Holarrhena
pubescens Wall.ex G. Don ( Apocynaceae) with activity against protozoan parasites
Objectives of the Research
1. To determine the in vitro antiprotozoal activity and cytotoxicity activity of crude
dichloromethane extract of leaves and twigs of Buxus obtusifolia and leaves and stem
bark of Holarrehena pubescens and their crude alkaloidal fractions obtained by acid-
base extraction.
2. To fractionate the crude alkaloidal fraction by chromatographic technique(column
chromatography (CC) centrifuge partition chromatography (CPC)
3. To submit the fractions to in vitro biological testing against the parasites under study
and to obtain their detailed analytical profiles by UHPLC-ESI QTOF MSMS (LC-MS).
4. To perform PLS modeling with the LC-MS and bioactivity data in order to identify the
most promising active constituents.
5. To isolate these constituents in a target-oriented manner using various
chromatographic methods, including preparative HPLC
6. To elucidate the full structure of the pure compounds using NMR spectroscopy and
possibly Xray crystallography and to evaluate their in vitro antiprotozoal activity and
selectivity.
7. To perform three-dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationship (3D-QSAR)
studies on antiprotozoal and cytotoxicity activities of the bioactive compounds.
8. To investigate the mode of action of the most potent compounds and cross-
resistance with existing antiprotozoal drugs.
Methods to be used
1. Collection of plant materials
2. Acid/base extraction of alkaloids from Buxus obtusifolia and Holarrhena
pubescens.
3. Fractionation of the crude alkaloid fraction.
4. Analytical characterization and biological testing of fractions.
5. PLS modelling.
6. Isolation and analytical characterization of pure compunds.
7. In vitro antiprotozoal assays.
8. Computational methods
9. Determination of mode of action and cross-resistance of strongly active isolates
Sponsor/Collaborators
German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Buxus obtusifolia (leaves and twigs) and Holarrhena pubescens (leaves, twigs and stem
bark
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Gongoni Forest
Project duration.
Expected to end Tuesday, June 30, 2026
Expected results
At the end of the project we expect three publications in peer-reviewed journals. In
addition active compound will serve as leads for development of novel antiprotozoal
agentsagainst NTDs with active efficacy and reduced cytotoxicity.
Details of Applicant
Name: Johanneke Dinie Hemmink
Project title
Next generation vaccines for the control of African swine fever”
Partners / Sponsors
Clinglobal limited
Phibro animal health holdings,inc
MBFT therapeutics
Base immune
Activity
Development of vaccine against African Swine Fever (ASF)
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Sus scrofa domesticus (Domestic pig)
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Nairobi campus
Methods to be used
Nanovaccine Technology
Project duration
October 2023 to September 2025
Purpose of Research
The aim of this project is to develop a safer next generation African swine fever vaccine.
The candidate antigens, known to induce cellular immune responses will be delivered
using a variety of existing and novel antigen delivery systems.
Research Beneficiaries
Findings of this project will be reported to commercial partner in a final study report
Details of Applicant
Name: Dr. Apfelbeck, Beate Anna
Project title: Sociality in the Anthropocene: an experimental study of
(pre)dispersal strategies in a cooperative-breeding bird.
Partners / Sponsors / Co-PI
Kenya wildlife Service (KWS)
County Government of Taita Taveta
Dawida Biodiversity Conservation Group (DaBiCo)
Department of Bioscience, university of Salzburg
National Museum of Kenya (NMK)
Department of Ecology and Ecosystem Management, Technical University of Munich
Activity
To combine an experimental approach with animal tracking and the analysis of unique,
long-term life-history data to assess how anthropogenic habitat change can shape the
propensity and timing of natal dispersal in complex social systems such as cooperative
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Phyllastrephus placidus
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Taita Taveta County
Methods to be used
Nest and group monitoring
Experimental simulation of habitat degradation
Statistical analysis: Modelling in direct drivers of dispersal strategies under
anthropogenic change
Purpose of Research
Investigate the effect of (simulated) habitat quality on natal dispersal decisions
by experimentally manipulating baseline CORT levels in subordinate and
dominant group members.
Quantify the natal dispersal behavior of subordinate Placid greenbuls through
state-of-the-art animal tracking.
Model different pathways through which habitat degradation can modulate
dispersal strategies in tropical cooperative breeders.
Research Beneficiaries
Technical support, Funding for one Kenyan PHD student
Exchange Programs/Short- Term Training
Educational and local community outreach
Capacity building in local level
Dissemination of research findings
The project grants provides funds to support field research, training activities and
laboratory activities
Local field assistants have been paid regular salaries
Details of Applicant
Name: Haoxin Investment limited
Project title The extraction and processing of Aloe from water and boiling to
condensation in to Gum
Partners / Sponsors / Co-PI
Kenya Wildlife Service
Haoxine Company Ltd
SAUM Community
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
SAUM Community West Pokot
Methods to be used
To extraction processing of Aloe from water and boiling to condensation into
Activity
The extraction and processing of Aloe from water and boiling to condensation into Gum
Objectives
To improve the community livelihoods, Infrastructure, and household income
To educate the local population on the importance of conservation and sustainable
resource management
To establish a transparent payment system to motivate local community
To ensure safe and environmentally responsible extraction and processing method
To strengthen security collaboration with the County Authorities
To support education and welfare initiative
To promote peace unity and moral values through community engagement and training
programs
Research Beneficiaries
Project seed funding or venture capital
Incentive and upfront payments
Royalties and milestone payment
Bonuses and other form of community
Details of Applicant
Name: Jan Stejskal
Project title:
Artificial Reproduction of the Northern White Rhinoceros (NWR) Held in Ol Pejeta and
Utilization of NWR Remains for Scientific and Educational Purposes – Update, January
2023
Partners / Sponsors
Kenya Wildlife Service
Wildlife Research and Training Institute
Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Nature Conservation Agency of the Czech Republic
Avantea
ZOO Dvůr Králové
Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research in the Forschungsverbund Berlin
e.v.(IZW Berlin
Activity
To prevent extinction of the northern white rhinoceros (NWR, Ceratotherium simmum
cottoni or Ceratotherium cottoni), the most endangered rhinoceros on the planet. Four
NWR were transported from ZOO Dvůr Králové, the Czech Republic
Objectives
Overall objective:
To save the NWR from extinction and use their remains to highlight the plight of this key
species
Specific objectives:
1. To undertake artificial reproduction of the northern white rhinoceros.
2. To utilize remains of NWR for educational and scientific purposes
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Northern White Rhinoceros and southern white Rhino
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Ol Pejeta conservancy
Methods to be used
Oocyte collections from Fatu, the younger NWR female in Ol Pejeta.
Special needle is activated to puncture through the intestinal wall into the ovary and to
harvest the oocyte from the follicle
The device is placed trans-rectally and once a follicle shows up on the screen of the
ultrasound-laptop
Purpose of Research
Artificial Reproduction of the Northern White Rhinoceros (NWR) Held in Ol Pejeta and
Utilization of NWR Remains for Scientific and Educational Purposes
Research Beneficiaries
Benefits to conservation:
1. Saving the NWR from extinction
2. Testing of the cutting edge technology for conservation purposes with potential
application even for other endangered species
3. Raise awareness on the plight of endangered species
Benefits to Kenya:
1. Involvement of Kenya Wildlife Service and OPC in the NWR rescue project helps to
enhance its position as a conservation champion
2. In case of success, progeny of the NWR will be shared between Czech Republic and
Kenya Governments as per the existing agreements.
3. Parties to this technical proposal will enhance capacities of Kenyan personnel both in
Kenya as well as in the facilities outside of Kenya. This may include visits, exchange
programs and training in this area and technology transfer.
4. Taxidermy of Sudan shall be returned to Kenya to raise awareness on the plight of
endangered species.
5. In the long-term, a research license for the technologies used to save the NWR will
be potentially provided to Kenya to assist in species recovery programes and
improvement of biobanks infrastructure.
6. The project has a big potential for promotion of Kenyan nature conservation through
media and different types of publication, including scientific papers.
Details of Applicant
Name: Damien Farine
Project title
Collective movement, social dynamics and fitness consequences of social decision-making across
temporal scales
Partners / Sponsors / Co-PI
KWS
Mpala
MPI-AB
NMK
Activity
To investigate collective movement and social dynamics of vulturine guineafowls
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Vulturine guineafowl
Project duration
5 years
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Mpala Research Centre, Laikipia
Methods to be used
Long term tracking-maintaining detailed observations of inter-individual relationships for
hypothesis testing.
Short term high-resolution tracking-e-0bs tags will be used to record the position of
individuals with sub-centimetre accuracy.
Field experiments-creating foraging sites with differing distributions of food.
Catching and processing of birds using walk-in traps baited with maize or millet and
under constant observation.
Purpose of Research
To investigate the behavioural mechanisms that underpin collective behaviour in wild social groups
and how these vary among groups and across different ecological conditions.
To investigate how individual differences in social behaviour and between individual relationships
impact coordinated action.
To determine how coordination among group members itself shapes the process of natural
selection on the individuals that constitute the group.
Research Beneficiaries
The research program will host up to 5 postdoctoral fellows, 5 PhD students, 4 MSc students, 2
undergraduate diploma students in the current phase. The research program will also fund
tuition fees for 4 Kenyan nationals to undertake graduate and postgraduate research projects
based in Kenyan institutions.
Exchange programs and short-term training-specialized training, lectures and workshops to be
offered to field assistants, undergraduate or graduate programs.
Equipment and facilities-support research capacity strengthening at MRC by contributing to
researcher time, vehicles and fuel to identified priority programmes.
Education and public outreach-the users will develop educational outreach materials and
disseminate materials appropriately.
The project grant will provide funds to support the research and training activities outlined in the
proposal including salaries for project staff, scholarships and consumables.
Details of Applicant
Name: Michael Brogna
Project title
Effect of human disturbance on African mammal communities in Laikipia, Kenya
Partners / Sponsors / Co-PI
Kenya Wildlife Service KWS
Mpala Research Centre MPALA
County Government Of Laikipia CGL
The University Of Californian Santa Cruz UCSC
Lion Landscapes LL
Wildlife Research and Training Institute WRTI
Activity
To measure the responses of large carnivores and the wider mammal community
through speakers and camera traps to determine the effect of human disturbance on the
ecosystem.
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Large Carnivores
Project duration
2024-2025
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Mpala Research Centre, Laikipia
Methods to be used
Large carnivore step length and turning angle from opportunistically collected SMART
collar data within the study area will be used to compare the movement and behavior of
large carnivores in response to each experimental treatment. Significance will be
analyzed with repeated-measures ANOVAs21 across playback treatments.
Sixteen camera traps will be embedded within each playback grid to capture grid
utilization by large carnivores, herbivores, mesocarnivores, and small mammals during
playback treatments. Measures of species occupancy, co-occupancy, and temporal
activity will be compared in utilization across treatments.
In weeks 2 and 4 of each 5-week treatment, food items will be provisioned at stations in
front of camera traps embedded in the grid. Herbivores will be provisioned with small
buckets of water, mesocarnivores with a single hard-boiled chicken egg and tuna-scent
lure, and small mammals with 4g of millet seed mixed into 500mmL of sand. Each type
of provisioned item will be replicated in front of 5 camera traps. Camera trap
provisioning stations will be spatially segregated and reconfigured between provisioning
sampling periods to prevent habituation to provisioned food items. Repeated-measures
ANOVAs and giving up densities will be used to analyze significance across playback
treatment.
Purpose of Research
To understand how humans and livestock impact fine scale mammal behavior and
movement.
To understand how changes in large carnivore behavior and movement impact
herbivore, mesocarnivore, and small mammal habitat occupancy.
To understand how changes in large carnivore behavior and movement impact
herbivore, mesocarnivore, and small mammal foraging ecology.
Research Beneficiaries
Non –Monetary
To train One PhD Student
Specialized training and capacity building Insight from this project will not only aid in
conserving the African mammal community, but will also increase the capacity for
coexistence for pastoralists and wildlife across multi-use landscapes.
Local community capacity building.
Outreach project, education and awareness- Dissemination of Findings: With the
proper education and outreach, autonomous playback speakers could become as
ubiquitous a tool in conservation monitoring and intervention as motion sensor camera
traps are today.
Monetary
HDAM is currently financially supported by internal funding through the department of
environmental studies at UCSC
The P1 and partners will also contribute in form of their own research training.
Details of Applicant
Name: JULIE M.K. OJANGO
Project title: Building a reference quality annotated genome for red Maasai sheep as a
resource to understand complex trails such as susceptibility to GI helminth infection
Partners / Sponsors / Co-PI
Directorate of veterinary service
The International Research Institute
The university court of the University of Edinburgh
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Red Maasai sheep
Project duration
5 years
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
ILRI Kapiti Ranch, Machakos County, Kenya
Methods to be used
‘Trio-binning’ method for genome assembly
To annotate the new genome assembly a transcriptome will be generated
Application of the new assemblies to further investigate the genomic control of susceptibility to GI
helminth infection
Use the associated transcriptome annotation, particularly for tissue types that are relevant to the
parasites mode of infection.
Activity
To generate a reference quality genome assembly for the Red Maasai sheep, from a trio
of animals (a ewe, lamb and their offspring) generated from the ILRI flock at Kapiti in
Kenya. This new reference assembly will provide resources to understand the genomic
control of complex traits that pose significant barriers to productivity in small holder
systems
Objectives
Generate Red Maasai trios (ewe, ram and their offspring) at ILRI and collect up to 24 tissues and cell
types from a male fetus (the offspring from the trio) at day 90-95 of gestation. Extract DNA and RNA and
isolate and fix nuclei for shipping from ILRI to Roslin for genome sequencing, bulk RNA-Seq and single
cell RNA sequencing.
Use a trio-binning approach to generate a reference quality assembly for the Red Maasai that can be
contributed to global pangenome efforts for sheep, and ensure East African indigenous breeds are
represented.
Provide high quality transcriptiome annotation of these assemblies using bulk RNA-Sequencing and
single-cell sequencing to identify tissue- and cell type specific gene expression profiles and interrogate
breed specific differences that might be driving complex traits such as susceptibility to GI helminth
infection.
Research Beneficiaries
Dissemination of research
The findings of the research project will be published in peer-reviewed scientific journals and will
be open to the public.
Details of Applicant
Name: Johanneke Hemmink
Project title
“ChAdOx1 vectored vaccines for Nairoviridae and Rift valley fever and noninterference
with existing small-ruminant vaccines”
Project
Partners / Sponsors / Co-PI
Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS)
The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI)
Clinglobal Limited
The Pirbright Institute, UK
The University of Oxford, UK
KEMRI, Wellcome trust, Kenya
MCI Sante animal health, Marocco
Activity
To determine if combination vaccines are as effective as individual vaccines and whether the newly
developed vector vaccines are immunogenic
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Sheep
Project duration
2025
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
ILRI Kapiti research station and wildlife conservancy in Machakos
Methods to be used
Groups of sheep will be immunised with different combinations of vaccines
Blood samples will be collected weekly for serum isolation.
Purpose of Research
1. To evaluate whether addition of RVF vaccine (either ChAdox1-RVF and/or other
commercially available RVF vaccine) to the already commercially available bivalent SGP/PPR
vaccine,interferes with the development of humoral immune responses to SGP and PPR (Non-
interference).
2. To evaluate whether ChAdOx1 vectored vaccines for Nairoviridae are safe and induce
detectable immune responses in sheep (Immunogenicity).
Research Beneficiaries
Generation of knowledge can be used for the control of disease in small ruminants in Kenya and
elsewhere
Dissemination of research-findings will be published ina final study report
Details of Applicant
Name: Kenyatta University
Project title:
Building knowledge for sustainable biodiversity conservation from virtual learning to
hands-out experience (BIOCOVE)
Partners / Sponsors / Co-PI
Kenyatta University
Kenya Forest Service – Kenya
Natural History Museum-University of Oslo, Norway
Activity
To focus on diversity of indigenous plants species in Kenya
.Objectives
Phylogenetic studies in the mainland Africa clade of dyschoriste (acanthaceae)
Phylogeny, taxonomy, and conservation of the genus Cyrtanthus Aton (Amaryllidaceae)
in East Africa
Taxonomic revision of phyllopsora and related rainforeslichens in Kenya
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Indigenous plant species
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Ngong, Lukenya, Kimeita, Irangi, Chogoria, Mbololo, Ngangao Magadi
Road, Thika, Donyo Sabuk, Athi River plains, Lukenya hills, Katumani, Machakos,
Makongo forest, Sagalla, Kasigau, Mutomo, Mwingi, Embu Tharaka, Laikipia National
Park, Londiani area, Gilgil, Mount Kachagalau, Mt.Kasigau, Marakwet
Kapiti plains, Nairobi around Water treatment in Ruai,Mangea Hill, Nairobi
Area, Athi plains, Gumbiro songea, Ol Eskut ,Ol Esayeti,Malindi,Tugen hills, Isinya and
Konza areaand kakamenga
Methods to be used
Collection of materials from the forest
DNA extraction and sequencing
Morphological and anatomical studies
Phylogenetic markers will be aligned, trimmed, and concatenated.
Research Beneficiaries
Non -monitoring
Training and skills building for a masters student
Dissemination of research findings
Monitoring
In the event of any royalties generated from the parties will agree on a separation
written agreement detailed modalities on IP management are outlined in mutually
agreed terms
Details of Applicant
Name: Jörg Jores
Project title: Phenotypic and genetic characterization of bacteria of camels and dogs
in East Africa
Partners / Sponsors / Co-PI
Directorate of veterinary service DVS
International livestock research institute ILRI
Institute of veterinary Bacteriology IVB
Activity
To investigate specimens from dromedary camels as well as dogs and isolate GRAM-
negative bacteria such as Escherichia spp., Klebsiella spp., Pseudomonas spp. and
others as well as GRAM-positive bacteria such as Staphylococaceae. The strains will
be characterized and compared regarding their genomes using next generation
sequencing, their phenotypic resistance to a spectrum of antimicrobials and their
temperate phages.
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Camels and Dogs
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Isiolo, Laikipia, Marsabit
Methods to be used
Collection of canine and camelid specimens
Phenotypic characterization and antimicrobial susceptibility testing
Next generation sequencing
Genome assembly, annotation and in silico characterization of extrachromosomal DNA
Generation of Minimum Spanning (MS) trees using Multilocus Sequence Typing (MLST)
data
Detection of genes encoding antimicrobial resistance and virulence factors
Purpose of Research
To characterize the strains phenotypically and ginotypically to show antibiotic
treatments options and to investigate host-pathogenic interactions
Research Beneficiaries
The findings of the research project will be published in peer- reviewed scientific
journals and will be open access
The results of research project will be generate knowledge which can be used to control
ASF assessing the cross- protection of an already licensed vaccine in Vietnam
Details of Applicant
Name: Stotra Chakrabarti,
Project title
The role of resources and competition in shaping fine-scale territorial and fission-fusion
dynamics in a non-model population of a model species – Tsavo Simba Research Project
Partners / Sponsors / Co-PI
Regents of the University of Minnesota, USA (UMN)
Macalester College, Minnesota, USA (MAC)
Wildlife Research & Training Institute, Kenya (WRTI)
Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS)
Activity
To understand the fundamental lion social behavior, movement parameters, conflict management
and capacity sharing
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Lion (Panthera leo)
Project duration
2025-2028
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Park,Chyulu Hills
Methods to be used
Satellite-GPS collars, enabled with proximity sensors.
Remote-camera based relative abundance indices (RAI)34.
VHF and satellite tracking
Calculate RAI and group-size of spotted hyenas within each lion-group home-range using the same
method as that for prey.
Purpose of Research
To investigate the role of resource dispersion and competition in mediating fine-scale territorial and FF
dynamics within and between the sexes in a social species.
To investigate the effect of resource heterogeneity on female- and male-group territoriality
To investigate the effect of resource heterogeneity and inter-specific competition on intra- and inter-sex
FF dynamics
To develop a lion database software to integrate behavioral data from population monitoring efforts
Research Beneficiaries
Knowledge transfer and technical support- The TSRP will support future graduate research and
training either through support of tuition fees or through access to data and technical and
logistical support and mentoring to fulfil research requirements.
MAC and UMN currently supports WRTI in carrying out a lion scat collection and examination study
at Amboseli and will continue to do so.
MAC and UMN has committed resources in the development of the lion database-management
software
Details of Applicant
Name: Elizabeth Annie Cook
Project title Immunogenetic diversity in Kenyan Livestock species
.
Partners / Sponsors / Co-PI
Directorate of Veterinary service
The international livestock Research Institute
The University Court of the University of Edinburgh
USRUC
The Pirbright Institute
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Livestock species
Project duration
The project runs until 2027
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Kapiti Research Station
Ol Pejeta conservancy
Kiambu County
Methods to be used
Study population
Sampling
Large scale MHC genotyping study
High resolution immunogenic analyses
Predicting variants driving immune phenotypes - single cell sequencing
Sample analysis
Large scale MHC genotyping study
High resolution immunogenic analyses
Predicting variants driving immune phenotypes - Generation & validation of AI
Models
Disposal of animals
Activity
Conduct a series of analyses that together will provide a complementary and high
Resolution analysis of immunogenetic variation in Kenyan livestock species that
Will provide a foundation for future breeding and vaccine development research.
Objectives
Overall objective:
Use of a range of genomic and NGS technologies to assess the diversity of various
immunogenetic loci in breeds present in Kenya for a range of livestock species
Specific objectives:
Use NGS to define the allelic variation found in polymorphic immunerelated
genes (e.g. MHCI and MHCII genes)
Use NGS to define the repertoire of expressed immune-related genes (e.g.
TCR and NK genes)
Use of genomic analysis to look at structural genome variation between
Breeds
Use of genomic analysis to provide a high resolution look at the structure
of immunogenetic loci
Generation of single cell expression data across a cohort of African
Animals
Calling and fine-mapping of regulatory variants
Generation and validation of AI models at predicting functional variants.
Analysis of existing loci including ECF tolerance locus
Research Beneficiaries
Capacity development
The Research Project has trained one PHD student and several laboratory technicians
at ILRI in the use of modern genetic analysis
Technology transfer: will improve the understanding of how genetic diversity influences
the responses of animals to disease. Some of the methodologies used will be
transferred to ILRI.
Dissemination of research: The findings of research project will be published in peer-
reviewed scientific journals and will be open access
Equipment purchased and brought to Kenya: CTLGH partners have funded a purpose
build laboratory at the ILRI campus
Research: The results of research project will enhance the understanding of the genetic
make –up of cattle breed important to Kenyan farming industry
Details of Applicant
Name: Ben Jonathan Evans
Project title “Sex chromosomes of the Marsabit Clawed Frog, Xenopus borealis and
other insights into frog diversity in Kenya.
.
Partners / Sponsors / Co-PI
Kenya wildlife service KWS
County Government of Kwale
County Government of Taita –Taveta
County Government of Kakamega
McMaster University
National museums of Kenya
Wildlife research and training institute
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Marsabit Clawed Frog (Xenopus borealis)
Project duration
10 years
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Kakamega, Kiambu, Kisumu, Laikipia, Machakos, Marsabit, Meru, Nairobi, Nakuru and Nyeri
Methods to be used
1. Collections of frogs through baited traps that are made from buckets and also use of
hand held nets
2. Transport of live frogs using plastic containers (Tupperware) that have air holes and
that include damp sponges to prevent desiccation.
3. Breeding of frogs facilitated by injecting a female and male with a hormone called
human chorionic gonadotropin
4. Gene editing
Activity
Identifying the sex chromosomes of the west population of X. borealis
Understanding how sex determination occurs and rapidly evolves in this frog
Understanding frog diversity in Kenya
Objectives
To study how sex determination works in X. borealis
To contribute to understanding and documentation of amphibian (frog) diversity in Kenya
Research Beneficiaries
Training at various certificate levels. The programme aims to build capacities of both
providers and users at various levels.
Specialized training and exchange.
The programme will establish facilities and equipment at the NMK.
Outreach programme through elaborate education and awareness strategy.
The programme supports salaries for currently enrolled students and is granted funds
by the Natural Science and Engineering Research Council of Canada.
Details of Applicant
Name: LEETH MUTHONI KIMANI
Project title
Alloe secundiflora and aloe turkanesis, barbansis &cultivated aloe vera for commercial purpose
.
Partners / Sponsors / Co-PI
Kenya wildlife service
Baringo County Government
Baringo bio-enterprise co-operative society
Standen international limited
Darppon medical company
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Alloe secundiflora , aloe turkanesis, barbansis &cultivated aloe Vera
Project duration
5 years
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Baringo County
Methods to be used
Leaves are cut from the plants using a sickle
When any aloe leaf is cut, a yellow liquid drips from canals (the so-called aloin cells) situated just
below the rind
Leaves are stacked (cut edges facing inward) around a hollow in the ground which is lined with a
plastic sheet
The yellow bitter exudate which is released from the cut edges are collected in the central basin.
This exudate is then boiled by the tappers in a drum to remove water. Once cooled, the exudate
solidifies into a dark brown, amorphous, glass-like solid known as aloe lump (Fig. 2.6) and is
sold as a laxative product.
Harvested leaves are washed in a sterilizing solution then further rinsed with water
Once tappers have extracted the bitter sap from harvested leaves, they wash and boil the sap in
high heat to produce gum.
Leaves are harvested with the base of the leaf sealed
The leaf is peeled or pulled from the stem in order to prevent gel exposure. This results in a better
quality sap as exposed sap allows for bacterial contamination
The whole leaves are simply sliced gel tapped and boiled to produce the gum.
Then manual filleting usually takes place on a stainless steel surface being the most preferred
method.
Activity
To buy Aloe from Bio Enterprise Cooperative Society in Baringo in gum form and selling the same
both locally and internationally
Objectives
To establish a sustainable aloe supply chain
To improve local community livelihood through employment and income generation
To promote biodiversity conservation through responsible harvesting
To position Baringo aloe gum in national and international market
Research Beneficiaries
Standen international limited is a newly established business venture and will explore
possibilities of supporting capacities of both users and providers at various levels of
appropriate cultivation and sustainable harvesting training
Standen international limited is based in kenya and will continue to invest in
infrastructural development on the aloe biotrade value chain ranging from research,
development and commercialization in kenya that will provide a means of livelihood to
the local community
Standen international will actively seek collaborations with various stakeholders in the
aloe farming sector to promote sustainable cultivation and harvesting
The company will engage eight employees who will earn a monthly salary
It will pay royalties at 5% of the gross sales of every million Kenyan shillings to
providers
Details of Applicant
Name: Darcy Lynne Ogada
Project title
‘Raptor Research and Monitoring in Kenya’
Partners / Sponsors / Co-PI
County government of Laikipia (CGL)
County government of Samburu (CGS)
County government of Kajiado (CGK)
Kenya forest service (KFS)
The peregrine fund (TPF)
Zoological society of San Diego d/b/a San Diego zoo wildlife alliance (SDZWA)
North Carolina zoological society (NCZS)
Lion landscapes (LL)
University court of the university of st Andrews (USTA)
University of Exeter (UE)
University of Helsinki (UH)
Wageningen University (WU)
Stitching wageningen (WR)
University of Groningen research (UG)
Endangered wildlife trust (EWT)
University of Cape Town
Hawk watch international (HWI)
University college Dublin national university of Ireland Dublin (UCD)
National geographic society (NGS)
Konrad Lorenz research center (KLRC)
Birdlife South Africa (BLSA)
Kenya bird pray trust (KBOPT)
International livestock research institute (ILRI)
Joko Kenyatta University of agriculture and technology (JKUAT)
Kipeto energy KPL (KEP)
National museum of Kenya (NMK)
Save the elephants (STE)
Lewa wildlife conservancy (LWC)
Northern range lands trust (NRI0)
Wild life research and training institute (WRTI)
Activity
Monitoring raptor genetics and the threat exposure of raptors to heavy metals and pesticides.
Objectives
Conduct twice annual aerial monitoring surveys of the three largest Rüppell’s
Vulture breeding cliffs in northern Kenya;
Opportunistically conduct aerial surveys of historical and current Rüppell’s Vulture
breeding cliffs throughout Kenya to determine their current status and population
numbers;
Opportunistically conduct aerial surveys of tree nesting vultures/raptors in remote
areas of Kenya to determine their current status.
Measure changes in raptor abundance between time periods, habitat classifications,
regions, or similar variables;
identify species showing significant declines and/or meriting conservation listing; and
gauge the effectiveness of protected areas in mitigating
Conduct monthly monitoring surveys of raptor nests in protected areas in Narok,
Kajiado and Laikipia counties;
Opportunistically conduct nest surveys of tree nesting vultures/raptors in remote
areas of southern and northern Kenya to determine status and conduct monthly
surveys and monitoring of populations of Mackinder’s Eagle Owl (MEO) in Laikipia
and Nyeri counties, and Mt Kenya.
Conduct monthly surveys and opportunistic searches for Abyssinian Owl on Mt
Kenya, Assess diet of these two species by collecting owl pellets and identifying
prey items,
Identify and assess threats to Kenya’s owls due directly as a result of human activity,
and through possible impacts
Understand the temporal and spatial movements of Secretary birds and the threats they
face in these areas,
Expand the limited knowledge of breeding productivity of this species in relation to climate
change.
To identify specific threats to raptor species that are suspected to be declining or
known to be at risk of global extinction;
Improve our knowledge of the basic biology and ecology of raptor species, including
habitat use, food and range requirements, breeding locations, home range size, etc.
Provide training and mentorship to increase Kenyan capacity to conduct tagging-
related research projects on raptors and use tagged vultures and other avian
scavengers as sentinel species to rapidly locate animal carcasses.
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Secretary bird, Hooded vulture, White-backed vulture. Rappel’s vulture, Lappet-faced
vulture, White-headed vulture, Bateleur, Augur buzzard, Tawny eagle, Steppe eagle,
African hawk-eagle, Martial eagle, Long-crested eagle, Verreaux’s Eagle, Wahlberg’s
Eagle, Ayres’s Hawk-eagle, Crowned Eagle, Montagu’s harrier, Pallid harrier, African
Fish-eagle, Cape Eagle Owl, Abyssinian Owl.
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
In northern Kenya our core areas are Laikipia and Samburu, but activities spillover to Marsabit,
Meru, Isiolo, Baringo, Nakuru, Wajir, Turkana and Nyeri once in a while. In southern Kenya,
our core areas are in the Masai Mara ecosystem in Narok, and in Kajiado, especially near the
Kipeto Wind Farm and the greater Amboseli region, with occasional spillover to Taita-Taveta
County.
Methods to be used
Aerial surveys of raptor breeding cliffs and trees
Raptor road surveys
Ground surveys of raptor breeding cliffs and trees
Owl surveys
Study of Endangered Secretary birds
Movement/tracking ecology
Purpose of Research
To better understand raptor genetics and the threat exposure of raptors to heavy metals and
pesticides.
Research Beneficiaries
Non-monetary benefits
Educational benefits: since inception TPFS Africa programme has supported 27 degrees
Specialized training and exchange programs, workshops and conferences in regards to the
conservation
Infrastructure and Specialised Equipment: These are based in the TPF field stations in
Laikipia and Maasai Mara.
Outreach Programme - Public education and awareness
Monetary benefits
TPF fund for the 2023 fiscal year has been provided by BAND
foundation.($60,000),NGO($100,0000),SDZWA annually(10,000),DallasZoo annually
($5,000),AZA Grands fund ($28,000),kipeto Energy PLC($85,000 and AZA Vulture
SAFE($18,000),.And previous budget were $332,932 in 2021and $384,643 in
2022.Ongoing fundraising effort shall be madeto maintain or increase the budget for
future year
The Programme employs 11 Kenyans full-time (1 Laikipia County, 3 Narok County, 3
Kajiado County), 1 Kenyan part-time, and further contracts the local services of between
2-8 professionals at any given time; Based on further developments and increased
capacity, the Programme will keep employing Kenya citizens from the various counties
in which it operate
In the event of exploitation of intellectual property and associated technologies,
Copy rights and media assets will attract 15% royalty on gross revenue to the
Providers and any other form of IP will attract a minimum of 10% on gross revenue.
The modalities on the share of these benefits will be provided in the MAT.
Details of Applicant
Name: Dustin Rubenstein
Project title
Coping with environmental uncertainty: behavior, morphology, genetics and physiology of
African birds.
Partners / Sponsors / Co-PI
Trustees of Columbia University
Mpala
WRTI
KWS
County Government of Samburu
County Government of Laikipia
Activities
- Capture unmarked birds and replace missing bands on previously captured birds.
- Collect blood, plasma, feathers and feces from all individuals captured.
- Population census.
- Locate nests and identify parents and helpers using behavioral observations.
- Monitor nests daily to determine hatching and chick growth (as well as natural
predation events).
- Observe antipredator activity at nests using predator (hawk, snake) models.
- Band all chicks in the nest.
- Capture and band any unmarked parents.
- Collect blood, plasma, feathers and feces from all individuals (adults and chicks)
captured.
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Lamprotornis Superbus
Onychognathus morio
Lamprotornis fischeri
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Laikipia and Samburu
Methods to be used
Baited pull string traps
Mist nets
Purpose of Research
To understand how social behavior influences adaptive coping in African Starling birds.
Research Beneficiaries
The research program will host undergraduate, graduate students and postdoctoral
researchers including American and Kenyan citizens.
The research program will continue to collaborate with Mpala to provide or contribute to special
trainings, lectures and workshops offered to field assistants, undergraduate or graduate students.
The research program will support research capacity and strengthening at Mpala by
contributing researcher time and existing equipment.
Education and public outreach.
Upon completion of the proposed research activities, the findings will be disseminated as
reports, journal publications and presentations to various lead agencies including KWS,
County governments and other relevant stakeholders and such information can be used for
decision making in connection with conservation and ecological monitoring.
The program will continue to improve the capacity of the local community by providing training to
school students and young researchers from Kenya.
The project grant will provide funds to support the research and training activities including
salaries for project staff and consumables.
Details of Applicant
Name: Jenna Stacy Dawes
Project title
Twiga Walinzi Initiative: Giraffe Conservation in northern Kenya in Support of Kenya’s
National Giraffe Strategy.
Partners / Sponsors / Co-PI
Kenya Wildlife Service (“KWS”)
County Government of Samburu (“SAMBURU”)
County Government of Isiolo (“ISIOLO”)
County Government of Laikipia (“CGL”)
County Government of Baringo (“BARINGO”)
Loisaba Community Trust (“LCT”)
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy (“LWC”)
Borana Conservancy Limited (“BCL”)
The Mugie Conservancy Limited (“TMCL”)
Mpala (“MPALA”)
Ol Pejeta Conservancy Limited (“OPCL”)
Ol Jogi Limited (“OJL”)
Namunyak Projects Limited (“NPL”)
Ngilai Community Conservancy (“NGILAI”)
Kalepo Community Conservancy Limited (“KALEPO”)
Ruko Community Conservancy Limited (“RUKO”)
Naibunga Conservation Limited (“NCL”)
Sera Community Conservancy (“SERA”)
Nannapa Community Conservancy CBO (“NANNAPA”)
Zoological Society of San Diego dba San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance (“SDZWA”)
Northern Rangelands Trust (“NRT”)
Vetinwild Limited (“Vetinwild”)
Giraffe Conservation Foundation East Africa Limited (“GCF”)
The Nature Conservancy (“TNC”)
The Wildlife Research and Training Institute (“WRTI”)
Activity
To carry out community-based giraffe conservation program in northern Kenyan
Rangelands.
To establish a Wildbook for Giraffe online photo ID system and database.
To facilitate Giraffe conservation and research in Africa through outreach programmes
and capacity building.
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Giraffe
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Baringo, Isiolo, Laikipia, Meru, Samburu Counties
Methods to be used
1. Photo Surveys
2. Trail Cameras
3. Road Surveys
4. Genetic Surveys
5. Satellite Tracking
6. Vegetation Monitoring
7. Human Dimensions of Reticulated Giraffe Conservation (Surveys and community focus
group discussions.)
Purpose of Research
The main objective of this collaborative research program is to gather socio-ecological and genetic field
data on reticulated and Nubian giraffe, people, and livestock across multiple sites in northern Kenya in
order to contribute to giraffe conservation efforts and support Kenya’s national giraffe strategy. The
program intends to do this through the methods listed below:
1. Assess the range, home range size and habitat occupancy of giraffe within the study areas to gain
insight and understanding of their seasonal movement patterns and critical linkage and habitat corridors,
as a tool to inform and guide conservation efforts moving forward;
2. Conduct regional population monitoring assessments of reticulated and Nubian giraffe populations in
order to estimate relative abundance and population dynamics utilizing road-based survey methods, SNP
genotyping, and individual identification tools (GiraffeSpotter.org);
3. Conduct road-based and camera trap surveys to monitor and document the impact and effects of large-
scale infrastructure projects on wildlife, specifically giraffe, in northern Kenya;
4. Document and assess the level of interaction between livestock and giraffe through vehicle-based
monitoring and satellite tracking to understand the impact land degradation, due to livestock
overgrazing/browsing, is having on the landscape;
5. Collect opportunistic tissue (both fecal and hair) samples of giraffe to contribute to collaborative giraffe
taxonomy and genomics research in collaboration with Kenya Wildlife Service, Giraffe Conservation
Foundation (GCF), Mpala Research Centre, and Senckenberg Research Institute;
6. Opportunistically contribute to noninvasively recording instances of giraffe skin disease to help
collaborators document and assess the severity or prevalence of giraffe skin disease in giraffe populations
in northern Kenya;
7. Utilizing the information collected through this initiative, provide conservation management
recommendations in coordination and support with the National Recovery and Action Plan for Giraffe in
Kenya;
8. Use surveys and focus group discussions of community members to study the motivations behind
giraffe poaching and collaborate with communities and conservation practitioners (including KWS) to
design interventions to reduce giraffe poaching;
9. Increase education and awareness of giraffe decline within nearby communities to decrease human
wildlife conflict and giraffe meat consumption.
Research Beneficiaries
Multiple trainings on data collection techniques, survey methods, and computer skills, have been
held for the field teams.
The Programme has established an elaborate education and awareness project targeting various
stakeholders.
The project will continue to undertake training on human wildlife conflict, spatial ecology,
community engagement, infrastructure mitigation and all other trainings pertaining to giraffe
conservation.
The programme has provided 24 school year bursaries in Namunyak, Loisaba, and Ruko
Conservancies, has engaged 228 students on field trips to Ol Pejeta Conservancy in 2022 alone, and
delivered conservation lessons to over 800 students.
The Programme has supported infrastructure development in Loisaba, 200 desk to the schools
bordering Loisaba. 10 teachers’ desks. Namunyak, Ngilai, Kalepo, and Ruko Conservancies .
An ongoing Kenyan student internship program as well as further capacity enhancement
opportunities like conferences, presentations, workshops, and trainings for the teams.
Details of Applicant
Name: HANNAH KARURI
Project title
SoilBON: Monitoring of soil biodiversity
Partners/Sponsors/PIs
KFS
UNVERSITY OF EMBU
Leipzig University
GSBI
Activity
To determine how sustainable use of ecosystems can safeguard soil biodiversity.
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Soil
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Irangi forest and the areas around University of Embu
Methods to be used
Genetic sequencing of the soil organism’s
Purpose of Research
The goal of SoilBON is to further connect multi-national partners and initiatives in a
worldwide effort to understand soil biodiversity, document how it is changing, how these
changes affect people who rely on soil living resources for their well-being and livelihoods,
and how a sustainable use of ecosystems can safeguard soil biodiversity.
Research Beneficiaries
Technology transfer through dissemination of research findings.
Details of Applicant
Name: Ed Wieland Sebastian Paul
Project title
Influence of different post-harvest processes on the quality of Kenyan
coffees.
Partners / Sponsors / Co-PI
Chepsangor Hills Coffee Farm (Dr.Rosbella Langat)
Zurich University of Applied sciences
Coffee Excellence Center
Activity
Analysis of chemical composition of the green beans
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Green coffee beans
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Nandi Hills off Kimwani Road
Methods to be used
Analysing the chemical composition of the green beans
Purpose of Research
To determine how different post-harvest processes influence the quality of Kenyan
coffees.
Research Beneficiaries
Publications of the findings will raise awareness among the possible buyers on the
quality of coffee that is processed thus increasing sales and income for the farmers.
Project Duration
2023-2029
Details of Applicant
Name: Cesare Pacioni
Project title
Mechanistic Insights into Climate Change Effects on Fragmented Populations of
Tropical Forest Birds
Partners / Sponsors / Co-PI
1. NMK
2. KWS
3. University of Salzburg
4. FWO
5. Ghent University
6. WRTI
7. University of Munich
8. DaBiCo
Activity
To determine how climate change affects fragmented populations of tropical forest
birds.
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Olive sunbird (Cyanomitra olivacea), placid greenbul (Phyllastrephus placidus), stripe-
cheeked greenbul (Andropadus milanjensis), Taita thrush (Turdus helleri), Taita white-
eye (Zosterops silvanus), white-starred robin (Pogonocichla stellata), and yellow-
throated woodland warbler (Phylloscopus ruficapillus)
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Dawida Biodiversity Conservation Ngangao, Wundanyi
Methods to be used
Nest Monitoring
Testing the impacts of thermal stress
Quantifying thermoregulatory capacity
Integrating mechanistic forecasts of habitat suitability
Project duration
Three years
Purpose of Research
1. To assess the thermoregulatory capacity of tropical forest-dependent birds across a thermal
gradient.
2. To predict how climate change and forest fragmentation will affect habitat suitability at the
landscape level based on the species' thermoregulatory capacity.
3. To investigate the mechanisms by which the predicted ecophysiological habitat suitability
impacts life-history strategies.
Research Beneficiaries
MSc student Vincent Onyango
Undergraduate/graduate students from University of Salzburg
Field assistants from DaBiCo
Local field assistants
KWS-Taita Hills
Local community (DaBiCo resource center)
Details of Applicant
Name: Francesca Vitali
Project title
“A study on physiology, immobilizations, and disease of Eastern black rhinoceroses (Diceros
bicornis michaeli) in Kenya: determining ways of improving safety and success.”
Partners / Sponsors / Co-PI
Global Health Program, Smithsonian Institution, Washington DC, USA
Mpala Research Centre, Nanyuki, Kenya
Kenya Wildlife Service, Nairobi, Kenya
Wildlife Research and Training Institute, Naivasha, Kenya
National Geographic
Activity
1. Advancing understanding of the pathophysiological mechanism occurring during chemical
immobilization in free-ranging eastern black rhino in order to advance anaesthetic management
and prevent capture related morbidity.
2. Validating and using innovative non-invasive biomarkers to measure the short-term effects of
stress associated with capture and translocation, in order to shed light on stress mechanism
affecting the translocation outcomes.
3. Improving the success of translocations, by understanding how to mitigate the long-term effects
on psychological stress and reproductive physiology.
4. Construction of an allostatic load index that will be used to detect individual's sensitivity to
translocation morbidity and used to guide selection of candidates for translocation.
5. Detection and quantification of Clostridium perfringens toxins and biotypes in Eastern black
rhino faeces.
6. Determine whether there is an association between the C. perfringens load and toxin production
with the stress associated with ear notching and translocations of eastern black rhinos.
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Wild Black Rhino
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
All rhino sanctuaries.
Methods to be used
Rhino sampling
Field and laboratory analysis
Project duration
2025-2027
Purpose of Research
To identify new ways to evaluate and mitigate capture- and translocation-associated short- and
longer-term morbidity in free-ranging eastern black rhinos, to improve the health and welfare of
this species in the wild, and its conservation.
Research Beneficiaries
Research will improve the outcome of translocations
This study makes disease management a priority in the conservation of rhinos therefore reducing
mortalities.
Details of Applicant
Name: Nicholas Pilfold, PhD
Project title
Leopard conservation in northern Kenya’s rangelands
Partners / Sponsors
KWS
WRTI
The Nature Conservancy
Suyian conservancy
Olpajeta conservancy
Borana conservancy
Lewa Wildlife conservancy
Mugie
Nannspa community conservancy
Lolldaiga Hills
Activity
To conduct and integrate ecological and social science to support community‐based
conservation of predators, namely the African leopard, in Laikipia, Isiolo, and Samburu
Counties.
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Panthera pardus (Leopard)
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Loisaba Conservancy,
Methods to be used
Sampling
Remote cameras
Use of scent lures
Project duration
2024-2025
Purpose of Research
The purpose of the Leopard Conservation in Northern Kenya’s Rangelands is to
conduct and integrate ecological and social science to support community‐based
conservation of predators, namely the African leopard, in Laikipia, Isiolo, and Samburu
Counties.
Research Beneficiaries
This project has the potential to benefit local communities in several ways:
Reduce leopard conflict and poaching and thus increase benefits from leopard
tourism and conservation efforts.
Provide the scientific knowledge and monitoring for communities to lead leopard
conservation in ways that suit their local abilities.
Direct training and employment benefits of research associates recruited and
hired from within local pastoralist communities. It is also hoped that Kenyan
university students can be involved as the project develops.
Increased opportunity for and access to education programs and materials is a
frequently cited and prioritized need for pastoralist communities. Engaging with
local teachers and Wildlife Clubs will enable the Leopard Conservation in
Northern Kenya’s Rangelands to share conservation-focused lessons.
Internships and attachments for WRTI diploma students as well as Kenyan
university undergraduates.
Annual lecture series given at WRTI campus for diploma and certificate students.
Details of Applicant
Name: Malak Ettaj
Project title
Transmission of Infectious Pathogens in Wild Baboons in Mpala, Kenya: Investigating
the role of social behaviors in disease spread
Partners / Sponsors / Co-PI
Prof Meg Crofoot (Max Planck Institute of Animal Behaviour)
Prof Damien Caillaud.
KWS
WRTI
Institute of Primate Research
Smithsonian Institution
Activity
To determine how social interactions influence disease spread and pathogen survival in
wild baboons in Mpala, Kenya.
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Papio anubis (baboon)
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Mpala Research Centre
Methods to be used
Fieldwork will be conducted at the Mpala Research Centre, where wild baboons
are regularly observed. Daily monitoring of baboon movement patterns, social
interactions (such as grooming, fighting, and mating), and behavioral traits will be
documented.
Fecal samples will be collected for analysis of gastrointestinal parasites such as
Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, and Strongyloides stercoralis. These will
be cultured to identify eggs and larvae and confirm the presence of the parasites.
Swabbing will be used to detect other zoonotic pathogens on baboons’ bodies.
Serological analysis will be performed to identify pathogens present in the
baboon bloodstream
Behavioral observations will be coded and analyzed to determine the frequency
and context of social interactions such as grooming, play, fighting, and sexual
behavior. This will be correlated with the occurrence of pathogen transmission
events.
Contact tracing will be used to understand how baboons come into contact with
each other, and pathogen transmission pathways will be mapped. Additionally,
the survival mechanisms of pathogens in the environment will be studied, with
special attention given to how pathogens persist outside hosts and the potential
for indirect transmission (e.g., through contaminated surfaces or water sources).
Purpose of Research
To determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites and other zoonotic pathogens
in wild baboon populations at Mpala Research Centre.
To assess how specific social behaviors (e.g., grooming, fighting, mating) influence the
transmission of identified pathogens within baboon groups.
To study the survival and environmental transmission mechanisms of identified
pathogens and their potential for zoonotic transmission to humans.
To analyze the interactions between social behaviors and pathogen transmission
dynamics to understand how evolutionary pressures shape social behavior in wild
baboons.
Research Beneficiaries
The users will access and utilize baboon biological resources, progeny, derivatives,
genetic information and associated biotic and abiotic covariate information
For the current phase of the program the MBRP will train 5 MSC students and 4 PhD
students and 2 postdocs. Five MSc and atleast 2 PhD students will be recruited within
kenya. The MBRP will support these study programs either through support of tuition
fees or through access to data and technical and logistical support and mentoring to
fulfill research requirements for studentswho have paid for their tuition. In all instances it
will also provide the opportunity for students to utilize field or laboratory work activities
for the purposes of their MSc or PhD research projects, thereby leading leading to the
award of such degrees.
In the current phase, the MBRP will also support 1 kenyan post-doctoral researcher
based at the MPG in Germany. Other MBRP positions within the current phase will be
recruited internationally in open calls.
Details of Applicant
Name: Karen Marshall
Project title
Testing the performance of short-hair (SLICK) dairy cattle in an East African
environment
Partners / Sponsors / Co-PI
DVS
ILRI
Livestock Improvement Corporation Limited
Activity
To find out the performance of short-hair (SLICK) dairy cattle in an East African
environment
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Project duration
5 years, from 2024 to 2029.
Cattle
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Kapiti ranch in Machakos
Methods to be used
Number of animals
Trait recording
Genotyping
Weather information
Data capture
Data analysis
Purpose of Research
To test the performance of the short-hair SLICK phenotype in an East African environment, to make
recommendations back to the East Africa dairy industry.
Research Beneficiaries
The international livestock research institute with headquarters in Nairobi
Livestock improvement corporation
Details of Applicant
Name: John Kabue
Project title
ECOLOGICAL AND SOCIAL INFLUENCES ON WILD BABOONS (Papio anubis) SLEEP
PATTERNS AT MPALA RESEARCH CENTER, KENYA.
Partners / Sponsors / Co-PI
Max-Planck-Gesellschaft zur Förderung der Wissenschaften e.V.
Smithsonian Institution
Institute of Primate Research
Mpala
Wildlife Research and Training Institute
Kenya Wildlife Service
Activity
To determine how ecological and social influences on wild baboons (Papio anubis) influence sleep
patterns
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Papio anubis (baboon)
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Mpala Research Centre
Methods to be used
1. Simultaneous tracking of wild olive baboons from 10 different social groups using
collars fitted with GPS sensors and triaxial accelerometers (acc). GPS collar data will
be used to track where baboons sleep each night. Accelerometers will measure sleep
parameters across different habitats, including cliffs, trees, and pylons.
2. Climate data such as temperature and precipitation will be collected from field
meteorological stations and satellite-based climate monitoring tools.
3. Distance between sleeping sites and human settlements, roads, and agricultural
zones will be mapped using GIS. Noise levels will be recorded with sound meters.
Sleep duration and fragmentation will then be compared between baboons in high-
disturbance and low-disturbance areas.
4. GPS and thermal imaging cameras will track proximity between individuals at night.
5. A combination of generalized spatial and statistical methods will be employed to quantify
the effects of ecological, social, and environmental factors on baboon sleep. Data analysis
and presentation will be done using R statistical software.
Purpose of Research
1. To determine the impact of different sleeping sites on baboon sleeping patterns
2. To determine the impact of human settlement and other anthropogenic activities on baboon
sleeping patterns
3. To determine the impact of social dynamics on baboon sleep patterns
4. To determine the impact of seasons and climate change on baboon sleeping patterns
Research Beneficiaries
Generation of new information on the impact of ecological and social factors on olive baboon sleep
patterns and behavior. This knowledge will inform policy, guide conservation efforts, and support
sustainable human-wildlife coexistence in our increasingly changing landscapes.
The users will improve the capacity of the local community by providing training to school students
and young researchers from Kenya. This will be achieved by employing young research assistants
and providing trading on conducting world-class scientific research by providing internships to
current students to gain first hand research experience and training fields’ assistants.
The users will also engage with primary and secondary school students, for example by providing
lectures and conducting hands-on science activities with school classes that visit the Mpala.
Details of Applicant
Name: Jeremy Keith
Project title
Development and implementation of a transformative and sustainable strategy for
malaria control in Africa using symbiont-based transmission blocking: Phase 2
Enhancing Microsporidia MB Transmission and Dissemination (SMBV-EMTD)
Partners / Sponsors / Co-PI
KENYA MEDICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE (KEMRI)
PWANI UNIVERSITY
INTERNATIONAL CENTRE OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY AND ECOLOGY (icipe)
GENOME RESEARCH LIMITED (GRL)
KENYA WILDLIFE SERVICE (KWS)
Activity
To develop and implement a transformative and sustainable strategy for malaria control
in Africa using symbiont-based transmission blocking: Phase 2
Enhancing Microsporidia MB Transmission and Dissemination (SMBV-EMTD)
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Microsporidia MB
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Kenya (icipe) and France
Methods to be used
one-way tunnel test will be used to separate female mosquitoes by providing a blood
source contaminated with ivermectin.
A cage containing the blood source will be linked to the rearing cage via a Plexiglas
tube.
The blood will be contaminated with ivermectin, and once female will be fed, they will be
trapped outside the rearing cage with males will remaining in the rearing cage.
An alternative method will involve a one-way tunnel and a blood source accessible
through a Permanet 3, an ITNs which combines the pyrethroid insecticide and synergist
piperonyl butoxide (PBO).
artificial Intelligence-driven automated pupae and/or adult sex separator(s), two recent
methods developed by Senecio robotics
Project duration
10 years
Purpose of Research
1) To determine what intrinsic and extrinsic factors enhance the spread and prevalence
of Microsporidia MB.
2) To assess the conditions that would either maximize the impact of a Microsporidia
MB-based strategy or prevent its desired outcome.
3) To develop a viable dissemination strategy that is based on research in pilot release
sites and has been tested under semi-field conditions.
Research Beneficiaries
Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI)
PWANI University
International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe)
Genome Research Limited (GRL)
Details of Applicant
Name: Eric Awas
Project title
PHYTOCHEMICAL INVESTIGATION OF BISCHOFIA JAVANICA, PITTOSPORUM
VIRIDIFLORUM AND ENTADA LEPTOSTACHYA SPECIES FOR ANTI-PLASMODIAL
PRINCIPLES
Partners / Sponsors / Co-PI
KFS
Institute of Chemistry, University of Postdam
University of Nairobi
Activity
To identify secondary metabolites from selected Kenyan plants and establish their anti-plasmodial
activity.
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Fabaceae (Entada leptostachya), Euphorbiaceae (Bischofia javanica) and Pittosporeceae
(Pittosporum viridiflorum)
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
School of Biological Sciences, Chiromo Campus, and University of Nairobi, Kenya.
Methods to be used
Plant Collection
Sample Preparation
Chromatographic Separation of Compounds
Structure Determination
Evaluation of in vitro Antiplasmodial Activity of synthesized and derivatised compounds
Determination of Cytotoxicity
Structural Modification
Purpose of Research
To isolate and characterize secondary metabolites from E. leptostachya, B. javanica and P.
viridiflorum.
2. To determine the in vitro anti-plasmodial activities of the isolated compounds and establish their
selectivity indices.
3. To establish the structural features responsible for anti-plasmodial activity through Structure
Activity Relationship studies.
Research Beneficiaries
KFS
Conservasionists and for ecological monitoring
PhD Student Eric Awas
Details of Applicant
Name: Laure Kaiser
Project title
Toward sustainable biological control of the Mediterranean corn borer: from the
adaptive mechanisms to the mass release of a new Cotesia species”
Partners / Sponsors / Co-PI
Dr. Paul-Andre’ Calatayud- International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology
(ICIPE) & Institute de Recherche pour le Development (IRD)
Dr. Jean-Michel Drezen -Centre national de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) &
University of Tours (UoT)/Institute for Research on the biology of the insect (IRBI)
Mr. Jean- Baptiste Thibord-Institut du Vegetal (Arvalis)
“Agence Nationale pour la recherche” “Agence Francaise pour la Biodiversite’-
Ecophyto”
Activity
Conducting the research and development necessary for future use of the newly
described parasitoid species Cotesia typhae nov. sp. as a biocontrol agent against the
maize stem borer Sesamia nonagrioides.
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Cotesia typhae species, (Hymenoptera: Braconidae)
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Kenya (icipe) and France
Methods to be used
Host and parasitoid mass rearing with the perspective of industrial production
and commercialization
Sampling of biological materials
Evaluation of the parasitism potential of cotesia typhae
Analysis of the reproductive success of genetic, physiological and behavioral
components and molecular mechanisms of virulence
Data collection through GPS coordinates
Laboratory Methodology
Purpose of Research
Evaluate risks and benefits of introducing C. typhae in France.
Identify mechanisms of C. typhae reproductive success and the factors of
variation, by uncovering physiological and behavioral components of this
success, the genes involved and their function.
Test the parasitic efficiency of C. typhae against S. nonagrioides on maize
plantations in greenhouses.
Set up methods for host and parasitoid mass rearing with the perspective of
industrial production and commercialization.
Devote to the scientific coordination and juridical aspects of the project.
Research Beneficiaries
If successful, the biocontrol agent against S. nonagrioides will allow reducing chemical
treatment of maize. This project will also contribute to understand behavioral and
molecular processes at play in reproductive success and adaptation to new habitats,
which are essential components of successful biological control programs.
Fill gaps in the knowledge on the Mediterranean maize borer ecology in France.
It will provide the genome sequence of C. typhae that will enrich the Cotesia database
and thus serve the scientific community studying the evolution of different gene families
in this genus.
CoteBio will allow to relate data on the reproductive success evaluated in the lab and in
semi-field conditions (WP3), which will contribute to fill the gap between lab
observations and what happens in real life, a common obstacle in biology.
It will also produce data on parasitoid and host insect responses to variable
temperatures, which are invaluable for models of population dynamics incorporating
climatic data, currently developed in EGCE in the context of global warming.
Altogether, C. typhae biocontrol would offer maize growers the possibility to produce
maize with environmentally safe methods.
This new biological control method would also create new job opportunities in the fields
of production and commercialization.
Scientific and technical investments realized in this project would open new avenues for
the production of other larval parasitoids that are interesting for their host specificity, like
Cotesia glomerata a parasitoid of cabbage Lepidoptera pests (Pieridae).
Details of Applicant
Name: Meredith C. Van Acker, Ph.D.
Project title
Tracking avian, bat, and livestock movement to infer pathogen transmission in Nairobi, Kenya
Partners / Sponsors / Co-PI
Dr. James Hassell
Dr. Jared Stabach
Dr. Eric Fèvre
Dr. Titus Imboma
Dr. Paul Webala
National Museum of Kenya (NMK)
Wildlife Research Training Institute (WRTI)
Activity
We aim to trap, sample, and deploy movement and contact tracing units on birds, bats, and
livestock.
Genetic Resource to be accessed
Tracking avian, bat, and livestock movement to infer pathogen transmission in particular,
house sparrows (Passer domesticus), Marabou storks (Leptoptilos crumeniferus), Wahlberg's
epauletted fruit bat (Epomophorus wahlbergi) and the straw-coloured fruit bat (Eidolon helvum).
• E. helvum: 53 total bats divided across 18 sites = 3 bats per site.
• E. wahlbergi: 95 total bats divided across 18 sites = 6 bats per site.
• P. domesticus: 77 total sparrows divided across 18 sites = 5 sparrows per site.
• L. crumeniferus: 91 storks divided across 3 sites = 30 storks per site.
• Pigs: 64 pigs divided across 18 sites = 4 pigs per site.
• Chickens: 65 total chickens divided across 18 sites = 4 chickens per site.
• Cattle: 64 cows divided across 18 sites = 4 cows per site.
• Goats: 64 goats divided across 18 sites = 4 goats per site.
Specific Site in which access will be undertaken
Nairobi, Kenya
Methods to be used
Sampling and Tagging Strategy
Location Data Collection using GIS
Bat Sampling & Capture
Power Analysis & Sampling Design
Laboratory Methodology
Project duration
October 2022 – August 2026
Purpose of Research
The main objective is to collect biological samples for pathogen screening and deploy proximity
sensors and GPS tags on live birds, bats, and livestock to;
(1) Identify areas with increased transmission of zoonotic pathogens between reservoir hosts
(bats and birds) and intermediate hosts (livestock) across an urbanization gradient and at select
urban-wildland interfaces, and
(2) Characterize the movement patterns and proximity between birds, bats, and livestock.
Together this data will be used to construct contact and transmission networks between animals
to describe high risk interfaces for humans in Nairobi, Kenya.
Research Beneficiaries
The research aims to trap, sample, and deploy movement and contact tracing units on birds, bats,
and livestock to inform decision makers such as.NGOs, researchers, and national agencies