Connect with us

Feature

Serah Munguti: Taking environmental conservation a notch higher

Serah is the policy and advocacy manager at Nature Kenya, Africa’s oldest environmental society.

Published

4 years ago

on

Serah Munguti, 44, traces her love for By wildlife from an encounter at the Amboseli National Park in her early years. Since her father worked as a mechanic in one of the hotels in Amboseli, they had a chance to visit him and on one of those visits, she witnessed the spectacular elephants’ dust bath. From the worker’s camp, which was situated at a higher ground, the scenes from below were a sight to behold for young Serah.

When her father, who was the breadwinner of the family passed on while she was in standard five, things certainly became challenging financially. Nonetheless, her mother held the fort as she had done earlier when her father was away at work. Her mother fended for Serah and her five siblings with proceeds from her farm in Makueni.

“My mother taught us to work hard. We worked on our farm and given how dry our home area was, we used to wait eagerly for the rains and we would plant on the first day of the rains. We didn’t give it, say, three days to test it out. As a result of how she brought us up, I am not a last-minute person and I am aggressive by nature,” says the Moi University graduate.

It is this aggressive nature that has seen her sail through even the hardest of the trials that life has thrown at her. Otherwise she would have become a school dropout due to lack of fees. Her boldness to speak up helped her secure a bursary from the school’s coffers. Secondly, the wildlife management course she undertook was no walk in the park but she saw it to completion.

Finding her place in conservation

All through primary and secondary school, she was an active member of the Wildlife Club, a testament of her love for nature. After graduating in 1999, she became a guide at a butterfly farm in Karen. Her work entailed showing tourists around on weekends. All the while, she was looking for a more stable job. She eventually found her way to the Institute of Primate Research, also situated in Karen.

“The director took me under his wing and had me help out in different projects. We even travelled to the Tana Delta, stayed around for a month tracking monkeys for a census. I then found out I was expectant so I had to go back to Nairobi,” she chuckles.

She took some time off after the birth of her son in 2001. The following year, she was back on the road looking for a job while her mother looked after her son back in Makueni. It was during this period that she came across Nature Kenya where, despite being turned down, she went back to seek audience with the executive director.

“This time round, I asked for a volunteering gig but I was categorical that I could not volunteer for free. It’s like something clicked and the executive director remembered a position that had been vacant for so long that everyone had forgotten about it,” she says incredulously.

The job was a programme assistant position but clearly was out of her depth due to lack of experience. She started out as an intern in February 2003 as she learnt the ropes. Seeking to grow in her field, she got a European Commission on Education scholarship for a Master’s in water and coastal management. With her son still staying with her mother, it was the best time to grab the opportunity with both hands.

As part of the pioneer class, Serah and her cohort of 10 from around the globe started off the programme in May 2004, dividing the 18-month course period between Portugal where she did the coursework and Spain for her thesis. On coming back, the executive director immediately acknowledged her potential and created a position for her as an advocacy officer in 2006.

“I’d explained to him that I would like to be more involved in natural resource management and in his wisdom, he conjured up the position although it was not clear what role I would play,” says the 44-year-old.

Defining moments

Since it was an entirely new position, for the first few months, all she did was attend meetings just to be aware of the topical issues in conservation. Nonetheless, it was not a smooth learning curve as being young and a woman in a male-dominated field had its fair share of challenges.

“I remember one plenary meeting where the speaker gave everyone else the chance to ask questions, ignoring my raised hand until someone else, who was his peer, pointed it out. My question opened up room for even more discussions,” she states.

Soon after, the time came for her to spring into action when the few flamingoes at Lake Natron came under threat by a developer. Besides the obvious environmental challenge that this posed, the legislation had come from neighbouring Tanzania.  Joining forces with other conservation groups, Serah and her colleagues started agitating for the project to be cancelled by holding campaigns and speaking to the media. After a successful campaign, Serah’s title was reviewed to take on the communication role as previously Nature Kenya was not doing any sort of external communication.

Pushing for conservation through policy

The next bit that would cement her place in this field was the most challenging but certainly the most rewarding. In December 2007, they got wind that several foreign organisations were clamoring for the Tana Delta and naturally, their first move was to halt the project as there were no conservation systems or community consultation put forth.  Between then and 2011, she was embroiled in setting up press conferences and meetings with the government, court cases and mobilising communities around the area to agitate for conservation of the Tana ecosystem.

“We went to the ground to talk to the communities and even went to the EU parliament to ask them to assess their policies which spelled doom for the Tana. Our lives were even threatened!” she narrates.

As the face of the campaign, she felt the brunt of the fire when a Canadian CEO flew down to threaten her for interfering with his company’s plans. However, with the backing of the EU, the company got delisted from the Canadian stock exchange.

Their light at the end of the tunnel, however, was a high court ruling in 2012 that declared that the local community had a right to be involved. Afterwards, she and her colleagues in the environmental space were able to organise a trip for all the stakeholders to the Tana Delta which was the genesis of a strategic land use plan that would benefit all.

It was during this time that Serah’s grit came into play and the success of the project was felt not just by the environment but the locals as well. However, the biggest milestone was when the land use plan she had helped put in place won an excellence award in 2016 and was to be used as a model for sustainable development globally. She was also nominated for the continental Tusk Conservation award in 2017.

In due course, communication being a very key aspect, was set aside as a stand-alone department after which Serah became the policy and advocacy manager.

Since taking up this role, Serah’s ultimate goal is to mainstream conservation such that non-environmental sectors can take the lead in conservation as according to her, it is costly for any sector to ignore nature in the quest for development. As such, through Nature Kenya, she works very closely will the government and private firms to ensure that development interests are taken care of without destroying the ecosystem.

“We realised that for us to be able to do our work, we needed to have the right policies in place and for them to be implemented, especially since most people consider conservation as a hindrance to development. As it is, when you are dealing with the government you need to have grit,” notes the natural resource policy expert.

Now a mother to a teenage son, Serah’s definition of parenthood as a single mom is being there for her child at all times. This, she says, has enabled her and her son to have a relationship that is founded on love and trust that those around them are always in awe of how open they are with each other. Her secret?

“It’s good for children to have the assurance that you will always be there for them, be it emotionally or physically showing up. Be the parent but also be the friend.”

Passionate about mentoring others, she urges young women, especially, to not wait for affirmative action but to intentionally work towards success.

“Nothing spectacular ever came out of the comfort zone. If you want success, believe in yourself, dare to be different and never underestimate the power of teamwork,” she says in conclusion.

This article was first published in the April 2020 issue of Parents Magazine

 

 

Related Topics:
Continue Reading

Feature

The Festival of Breaking the Fast: Understanding Eid al-Fitr

Published

3 weeks ago

on

March 19, 2026

By

As the crescent moon appears in the night sky, marking the end of the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, millions of people around the world transition from a period of deep reflection to one of vibrant celebration. Eid ul-Fitr, often called the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” is one of the most significant dates in the calendar, representing a harmonious blend of spiritual accomplishment and communal joy.

Why is Eid al-Fitr celebrated?

Eid al-Fitr marks the conclusion of Ramadan, a month-long period where observers fast from dawn until sunset. The celebration is, at its core, a way to show gratitude. After thirty days of practising self-discipline, patience, and increased charity, the festival serves as a reward for the spiritual “marathon” completed during the holy month.

It is also a time to celebrate the revelation of the Quran, which is believed to have begun during the final ten days of Ramadan. By completing the fast, individuals celebrate the strength and willpower they gained, reinforcing their commitment to their values for the year ahead.

The importance of the day

Eid ul-Fitr is far more than just a day off from work or a festive meal; it serves several critical functions:

  • It acts as a bridge between the intense devotion of the previous month and a return to daily life, carrying forward the lessons of empathy and mindfulness.

  • The day begins with a special congregational prayer. This gathering brings together people from all walks of life, emphasising equality and unity within the community.

  • A key pillar of the holiday is Zakat al-Fitr, a mandatory charity given before Eid prayers. This ensures that everyone, regardless of their financial status, can enjoy a festive meal and join the celebration.

What does Eid al-Fitr mean?

While the literal translation is “the feast of breaking the fast,” the deeper meaning of Eid revolves around renewal.

  1. Many view the day as an opportunity to start fresh. It is a traditional time for reconciling differences, forgiving past grievances, and strengthening bonds with family and neighbours.

  2. After experiencing the hunger and thirst of a fast, the “Fitr” (breaking of the fast) takes on a profound meaning. It is a moment to appreciate the necessities of life (food, water, and health) that are often taken for granted.

  3. Beyond the religious context, it is a day defined by hospitality. Homes are opened, special sweets are shared, and children often receive gifts or Eid (money), creating a sense of wonder and belonging that lasts a lifetime. 

Common traditions around the world

While customs vary by region, a few hallmarks remain constant:

  • Wearing new or best-quality clothes to honour the occasion.

  • In many cultures, the holiday is nicknamed the “Sweet Eid” due to the variety of desserts, like sheer khurma or baklava, served to guests.

  • The universal phrase used to wish others well is “Eid Mubarak,” which translates to “Have a blessed Eid.”

In essence, Eid al-Fitr is a beautiful reminder that discipline leads to joy, and that the greatest celebrations are those shared with others.

For more, click HERE to join our WhatsApp channel!

Continue Reading

Feature

The Festival of Breaking the Fast: Understanding Eid al-Fitr

Published

3 weeks ago

on

March 19, 2026

By

As the crescent moon appears in the night sky, marking the end of the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, millions of people around the world transition from a period of deep reflection to one of vibrant celebration. Eid ul-Fitr, often called the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” is one of the most significant dates in the calendar, representing a harmonious blend of spiritual accomplishment and communal joy.

Why is Eid al-Fitr celebrated?

Eid al-Fitr marks the conclusion of Ramadan, a month-long period where observers fast from dawn until sunset. The celebration is, at its core, a way to show gratitude. After thirty days of practising self-discipline, patience, and increased charity, the festival serves as a reward for the spiritual “marathon” completed during the holy month.

It is also a time to celebrate the revelation of the Quran, which is believed to have begun during the final ten days of Ramadan. By completing the fast, individuals celebrate the strength and willpower they gained, reinforcing their commitment to their values for the year ahead.

The importance of the day

Eid ul-Fitr is far more than just a day off from work or a festive meal; it serves several critical functions:

  • It acts as a bridge between the intense devotion of the previous month and a return to daily life, carrying forward the lessons of empathy and mindfulness.

  • The day begins with a special congregational prayer. This gathering brings together people from all walks of life, emphasising equality and unity within the community.

  • A key pillar of the holiday is Zakat al-Fitr, a mandatory charity given before Eid prayers. This ensures that everyone, regardless of their financial status, can enjoy a festive meal and join the celebration.

What does Eid al-Fitr mean?

While the literal translation is “the feast of breaking the fast,” the deeper meaning of Eid revolves around renewal.

  1. Many view the day as an opportunity to start fresh. It is a traditional time for reconciling differences, forgiving past grievances, and strengthening bonds with family and neighbours.

  2. After experiencing the hunger and thirst of a fast, the “Fitr” (breaking of the fast) takes on a profound meaning. It is a moment to appreciate the necessities of life (food, water, and health) that are often taken for granted.

  3. Beyond the religious context, it is a day defined by hospitality. Homes are opened, special sweets are shared, and children often receive gifts or Eid (money), creating a sense of wonder and belonging that lasts a lifetime. 

Common traditions around the world

While customs vary by region, a few hallmarks remain constant:

  • Wearing new or best-quality clothes to honour the occasion.

  • In many cultures, the holiday is nicknamed the “Sweet Eid” due to the variety of desserts, like sheer khurma or baklava, served to guests.

  • The universal phrase used to wish others well is “Eid Mubarak,” which translates to “Have a blessed Eid.”

In essence, Eid al-Fitr is a beautiful reminder that discipline leads to joy, and that the greatest celebrations are those shared with others.

For more, click HERE to join our WhatsApp channel!

Continue Reading

Feature

Living with Parents vs Moving Out Featuring Hoch Muhoro

Published

2 months ago

on

February 2, 2026

By

Modern times have pushed the narrative of moving out at 20 or 21, and it has largely been embraced. While the parents’ home is seen as a free place you pay for with your mental health, it is a strategic base for many and a point of debate for others.

Let’s explore both sides of this dilemma, using the case of Kenyan creator Hoch Muhoro to anchor the conversation.

Is moving out a strategic sanctuary or stunted growth?

For decades, the metric of success for a young African adult was defined by finishing school, getting a job, and getting your own roof. To stay a day longer was to invite whispers of a failure narrative. However, as the cost of living in cities like Nairobi skyrockets and the digital economy changes how we work, the rules of independence are being rewritten.

Hoch Muhoro redefining narratives

The conversation recently reached a fever pitch following the story of Hoch Muhoro, a  Kenyan digital creator who lives with his mother. To traditionalists, his situation is an anomaly, perhaps even a failure. But to a growing number of digital nomads and strategic savers, Hoch represents a bold counter-narrative.

Hoch argues that his choice isn’t about an inability to provide but about companionship, care, and the rejection of societal timelines that don’t serve the individual. His relationship with his mother, documented with transparency, highlights a shift from dependence to intentional cohabitation.

The argument for moving out

Proponents of moving out early argue that the cold world is the only place where true character is built. There is a unique psychological drive that comes from knowing your next meal depends entirely on your hustle. This survival mode often sparks the creativity and resilience needed to excel in competitive industries.

Living alone offers the freedom to fail, to host, and to explore one’s identity without the background noise of parental expectations or curfews. In many circles, including the dating market, living at home carries a stigma of immaturity that can be hard to shake, regardless of your bank balance.

The argument for staying home

On the flip side, the Hoch Muhoro approach offers benefits that the struggle-to-pay-rent lifestyle cannot match. By eliminating rent, individuals can funnel that capital into investments, equipment for digital creation, or emergency funds.

The isolation of life alone can be brutal. Multigenerational living provides a support system that wards off the loneliness often associated with early adulthood. Living at home also allows adult children to support ageing parents, creating a symbiotic relationship rather than a parasitic one.

Context is necessary

Is it better to move out? The answer is not a yes or no, but a when and why. If staying at home makes you lazy, complacent, and fearful, it is a cage. But if, like Hoch Muhoro, it provides the peace of mind to create and the opportunity to cherish family bonds, then it is a strategic advantage.

Independence isn’t just about having your name on a lease; it’s about the ability to make decisions that best serve your future self. Maybe the most adult thing you can do is ignore the neighbours and stay where you are supported.

For more, click HERE to join our WhatsApp channel!

Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2017 Zox News Theme. Theme by MVP Themes, powered by WordPress.