The Great Southern BioBlitz 2024 edition, Kenyan chapter was a remarkable event for young naturalists and nature enthusiasts in Nairobi, Kenya. it was organized through collaboration with the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW) and local universities’ nature and environment clubs. The event spread out over four-day September 20th – 23rd). It drew students from institutions; including the Wildlife Clubs of Kenya (Center for Tourism Training and Research), University of Nairobi, Africa Nazarene University, Nature Kenya, and the Giraffe Centre.
The BioBlitz main mission is to highlight the rich biodiversity of the Southern Hemisphere in the flourishing spring season while engaging the public in science and nature education through the citizen science platform iNaturalist mobile application.
An Eye-Opening Encounter with Nature
During the BioBlitz activities, participants explored diverse ecosystems within the Nairobi metropolitan area, Kiambu and Kajiado counties. The key locations included the Giraffe Centre Nature Trail, the Nairobi National Museum, the Ondiri Wetlands, and the Naretunoi Conservancy a wildlife dispersal area for Nairobi National Park. Over the course of four days, armed with smartphones, cameras and binoculars participants observed, documented, and collected data on the natural flora and fauna of these ecosystems with a lot of passion
For many first-time participants, this was a profoundly transformative experience. Many described it as “eye-opening” and a catalyst for a deeper connection with the environment.
Through hands-on experience, the participants’ determination to preserve and protect nature was solidified. AFEW’s youth-focused engagement model has proven successful, with more than 85% of participants under 30.
Integration of technology through the use of the iNaturalist mobile app to document and identify species in real time was a powerful tool for helping beginners familiarize themselves with the wonders of the natural world and biodiversity in the areas explored.
Fostering the Future of Conservation
The Great Southern BioBlitz is more than an event; it represents a commitment to nature conservation through citizen participation. By integrating aspects of young people, AFEW Kenya has not only boosted awareness but also contributed valuable data for monitoring biodiversity in Kenya. The initiative is a testament to how grassroots efforts can significantly contribute to environmental protection through quality data that can contribute to research and policy decisions on nature areas.
Sir David Attenborough, the renowned British naturalist, once said:
“It is that range of biodiversity that we must care for—the whole thing—rather than just one or two stars.”
This quote resonates deeply with the purpose of the BioBlitz, which aims to appreciate and document the richness of ecosystems as a whole.
Looking Ahead: A Call to Action
As we await the final data from the 2024 edition, it’s clear that more and more citizens are becoming involved in nature conservation efforts. We urge all stakeholders, institutions, and individuals to participate in future editions of the Great Southern BioBlitz.
Additionally, events like bird ringing and environmental cleanups offer further opportunities for hands-on involvement in conservation. More information about these events can be found on the AFEW-Giraffe Centre’s social media platforms and website.
Let us come together to foster a society that exists in harmony with nature, ensuring a future where biodiversity flourishes and ecosystems thrive. By contributing to initiatives like the Great Southern BioBlitz, we take important steps toward safeguarding our planet for generations to come.
Author’s contact:
Kelvin Munene Njeru
0729844844
Photographer:
Tobby Odhacha
instagram: @tobbyodhacha
