Kenya’s scientists are delving into the mysteries of a powerful wind that shapes the climate across East Africa. Known as the Turkana Low-Level Jet (LLJ), this wind is more than just a meteorological curiosity—it’s a driving force behind both flooding and droughts and plays a key role in powering Africa’s largest wind farm.
The world faces a significant challenge in meeting its 2030 renewable energy generation target. According to the latest statistics from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)
Access to safe and affordable cooking energy remains a significant challenge in developing countries, including Kenya. Traditional energy sources contribute to respiratory diseases and climate change through deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions.
By Bernard Gitau @benagitau The Historic Town and Archaeological Site of Gedi has been officially added to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list, making it Kenya’s eighth World Heritage Site. This accolade highlights the significance of Gedi’s historical and cultural value. Dr. Fredrick Manthi, Director of Antiquities, Sites and Monuments, commented, “The inscription of Gedi underscores the National Museums of Kenya’s commitment to conserving and promoting Kenya’s heritage for posterity. This recognition underscores the historical and cultural significance of Gedi, solidifying its place as a vital part of Kenya’s rich heritage.” Situated in Kenya’s coastal region, Gedi offers a glimpse into Swahili culture from the 13th to 17th centuries. The site features stone houses, a palace, and a mosque within a lush forest, reflecting the sophisticated architecture and urban planning of the Swahili civilization. Prof. Mary Gikungu, Director-General of the National Museums of Kenya, expressed, “We are deeply honoured by this inscription, which highlights the importance of preserving and promoting our cultural heritage. The recognition of Gedi as a World Heritage Site not only elevates its status globally but also reaffirms our commitment to safeguarding our national treasures for future generations.” The addition of Gedi follows a rigorous evaluation by the World Heritage Committee, which recognized its outstanding universal value. Professor Peter Ngure represented Kenya at the 46th Session of the World Heritage Committee in New Delhi, India, on July 27, 2024. He stated, “Thank you for giving Kenya the opportunity to present the Historic Town and Archaeological Site of Gedi—a prominent Swahili city-state on the East African Coast. The property is an outstanding testimony to the social and economic structure of its 13th-century inhabitants.” This new designation enhances conservation efforts and opens avenues for sustainable tourism, research, and international collaboration. The National Museums of Kenya, alongside local and international partners, will focus on preserving Gedi’s archaeological and biological integrity while improving visitor experiences through enhanced infrastructure and educational programs. With Gedi’s inclusion, Kenya now boasts eight World Heritage Sites: Lake Turkana National Parks, Mount Kenya National Park and Forests, Lamu Old Town, Sacred Mijikenda Kaya Forests, Fort Jesus, Kenya Lake System in the Great Rift Valley, Thimlich Ohinga Archaeological Site, and the Historic Town and Archaeological Site of Gedi. This addition enriches Kenya’s cultural landscape and contributes to global understanding of Swahili history.
Kenya’s ambition to be recognized as the cradle of humanity could be realized within the next decade. The American Journal of Human Genetics recently published a piece emphasizing the need for equitable and inclusive DNA and ancient DNA (aDNA) research in Africa.
In a world grappling with the consequences of climate change and environmental degradation, the role of faith communities in conservation efforts is increasingly pivotal.
Environmental advocates have issued a stark warning about the escalating threat of plastic waste in the Indian Ocean and along beaches, urging for enhanced waste management strategies across coastal areas.
Kenya’s government has raised alarms over the rampant land degradation across the country. Environment Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya disclosed that at least 91% of Kenya is undergoing some form of degradation due to unsustainable land use practices.
Mushrooms are more than just a culinary delight; they are vital agents of decomposition in ecosystems and serve as a crucial food source for numerous animals. Research scientists highlight the essential role mushrooms play in breaking down organic matter, recycling nutrients back into the soil, and maintaining ecological balance. “Apart from popping in the ecosystem, mushrooms are becoming regular guests on restaurant menus, in grocery stalls as more farmers continue to embrace them,” said Susan Kabacia, a Research Scientist specializing in Fungi taxonomy at the National Museums of Kenya (NMK). Kabacia reveals that NMK is actively collaborating with farmers across the country to popularize mushroom farming through training and the production of high-quality spawns (seeds). This initiative aims to boost local economies and provide sustainable agricultural practices. One such beneficiary of this initiative is Felister Wanjiru, a resident of Baba Dogo in Nairobi, who has mastered the art of growing Oyster and button mushrooms. Wanjiru’s venture into mushroom farming began out of necessity when her previous business shuttered during the COVID-19 pandemic. “I had bills to cater for, my child was young, and life in Nairobi revolved around money. I had to act quickly before I was grounded,” she said. Fast forward three years, and Wanjiru’s mushroom business has flourished, becoming a lucrative endeavor. After receiving training from seasoned mushroom farmers and the National Museums of Kenya, she started with spawns worth Sh 5,000. “I bought 10 bales of rice husks which I composted and mixed with mushroom spawns. I prepared 100 bags which produced at least 1 to 1.5 kg,” she said. With a kilo selling for Sh 600, Wanjiru earned approximately Sh 60,000 from her first harvest. Encouraged by this success, she expanded her production significantly. “At the moment, I prepare 1,500 to 2,000 bags, yielding at least 2,000 kilos. With a kilo going for Sh 600, I am in business,” she said. Today, Wanjiru earns at least Sh 400,000 a month and has become an employer, providing jobs for six people—three permanent and three casual workers. To achieve maximum production, Wanjiru ensures that her growing room is well-ventilated with controlled temperature and humidity. She grows two varieties of mushrooms: Oyster and button (white). Her farming process involves several meticulous phases. First, she and her employees prepare compost from rice husks, which are boiled to kill germs and other contaminants. The compost is then cooled down and turned every two to three days to allow it to rot and for nutrients to concentrate. After 14 days, the compost is complete when it turns dark brown and becomes pliable. It is then pasteurized to kill bacteria and weed seeds and to remove ammonia, making the substrate ready for the growth of mushroom mycelium. At the National Museums of Kenya, Kabacia notes the growing demand for mushrooms, driven by a health-conscious generation. “Mushrooms are medicinal and rich in nutrients,” she said. Mushrooms contain high amounts of selenium, vitamin D, and vitamin B6. Selenium can help prevent cell damage in our bodies, vitamin D helps with cell growth, and vitamin B6 aids in forming red blood cells. “All of these nutrients in mushrooms help to maintain a healthy immune system,” she added. More than 100 medicinal functions are produced by mushrooms and fungi, including antioxidant, anticancer, antidiabetic, antiallergic, immunomodulating, cardiovascular protector, anticholesterolemic, antiviral, antibacterial, antiparasitic, antifungal, detoxification, and hepatoprotective effects. As mushrooms continue to prove their worth both environmentally and economically, their popularity is set to soar, benefiting ecosystems and communities alike.
The delicate dance of nature’s intricate web often conceals the profound significance of certain components. One such component is the mushroom.
