Healthy and functional semi-arid landscapes—Co-design knowledge and engagement

The Eurasian hoopoe (Upupa epops) spotted in the Mukutan Conservancy and Mshipi area, 2025, Kenya
Author: Nicole Fahrni

Healthy and functional semi-arid landscapes—Co-design knowledge and engagement

  • Our Objective

    This project supports resilient, productive rangelands in northern Kenya by strengthening local institutions, restoring ecological functions, and empowering communities to adapt sustainably.

  • Figures

    The project was launched on March 17, 2022 and is currently in progress.

Summary

Across northern Kenya, young pastoralists who traditionally herd livestock are now leading land restoration efforts by digging thousands of semi-circular bunds to revive exhausted grazing lands. Working with local coalitions and county governments, they are helping secure six wildlife and livestock corridors while documenting vital water points and pasture areas to guide future plans.

These efforts are backed by eco-enterprise activities that create new income streams without degrading the land. Women and youth groups help develop business models that protect resources while supporting local livelihoods, from sustainable harvesting to native seed banks. Combined with traditional knowledge and scientific research, these actions build fairer, more productive rangelands where people and wildlife can thrive together.

The hope is that restored soil, healthy vegetation, and thriving communities will support both local prosperity and biodiversity for future generations.

Project Connections

  • Part of the topic

    Human well-being that supports nature

    Human well-being that supports nature
  • Part of the topic

    Stewardship

    Stewardship
  • Part of the solutionscape

    Enabling the co-existence of pastoralism and wildlife in semi-arid rangelands in an insecure climate

Timeline

  • Regional context of the Semi Arid's landscapes in Northern Kenya

    Project Update June 2, 2024

    Nothern Kenya's SemiArid Landscapes

Team

  • Project contact

    Sheila Funnell
    Head of Innovation and Impact

    Sheila Funnell, Head of Innovation and Impact, Wyss Academy for Nature
    Project contact