On July 1, 2025, Director Dr. Patrick Omondi, together with the Chair of the Board’s Research, Training, and Academics Committee, Dr. Albert Long’ora, hosted Professors Joseph Bump and Stotra Chakrabarti to officially launch the Tsavo Simba Research Project in partnership with the University of Minnesota and Macalester College.
This collaborative research project aims to deepen scientific understanding of lion behavior, promote effective conservation strategies, enhance, and build local research capacity within the Tsavo Conservation Area, one of Kenya’s most ecologically significant landscapes.
As part of the partnership, the project is equipped with cutting-edge technology including GPS collars, remote camera traps, state-of-the-art optical equipment and the introduction of a new lion monitoring software named (LEOS).
These tools will significantly enhance real-time tracking, data collection, and long-term ecological monitoring of lion populations across Tsavo. The Tsavo Simba Research Project underscores the Institute’s commitment to advancing science-based conservation through international collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the integration of technology in wildlife research and management.
Also present at the meeting were Dr. David Ndeereh, Deputy Director for Research, and Dr. Fredrick Lala, Head of Southern Savannah Landscape.