May 17, 2012

Introducing Alakara, Mpala's new Women's Art Collective

Alakara (meaning happiness in Turkana) is Mpala Research Centre’s own newly formed women’s art collective. Bridging traditional beading skills with a fresh vision for unique jewelry and keepsakes, Alakara shares the bright colors of Kenya with visitors to MRC. Visit our display case (located in the Dining Hall) to view our newest products, find great gifts for loved ones and support the women and families of our community. Learn more about Alakara here!

April 29, 2012

Mpala's Soccer Team wins the Laikipia Unity Cup

This past weekend, Mpala's soccer team won the Laikipia Unity Cup regional tournament held at Kimanjo Primary School. The tournament was a three day event and the Mpala team beat out seven other teams for the title. Three of Mpala's players were chosen to play in the combined regional team that will go to the finals at the end of May. Through the matches and other events the  Cup promotes unity and understanding amongst the many different ethnic groups living in Laikipia, contributing to peace building before the upcoming general elections. In addition these events aim to raise awareness about environmental and conservation issues in Kenya. We'd like to thank the Laikipia Widlife Form and the Zeitz Foundation for organizing the Cup as well as Don Graham, chair of the Mpala Wildlife Foundation board, for contributing the Mpala team's uniforms. 

March 10, 2012

New Mpala Fellowship Program

Mpala is now offering an Mpala Fellowship, through the Meeker Family Fund, for Kenyan nationals who are currently enrolled in a baccalaureate degree program and have selected an area of academic concentration which will likely lead to a conservation career or those who already hold a bachelor’s degree and will be entering a master’s program in an area of conservation science. The fellowship program will cover tuition costs for students for two years and provide the opportunity to take courses or do independent field work at Mpala Research Centre. Please visit our Fellowships Page to learn more.

February 20, 2012

Daraja Academy Visits Mpala

On February 11th, students from the nearby Daraja Academy (a girls’ secondary school) visited Mpala. The girls headed into the field with many of Mpala’s researchers to get a hands-on look at ecology, conservation, and the research conducted at Mpala. This was the second visit by Daraja Academy in the start of a growing mentor relationship between Mpala and Daraja Academy.