Ruth Kerubo Onkoba
Insects play a fundamental role in maintaining ecosystem health through pollination, nutrient cycling, pest regulation, and as a vital food source for other organisms. Despite their ecological importance, insect populations are increasingly threatened by habitat degradation, climate change, and unsustainable human activities. In coastal Kenya, particularly in Shimoni, Kwale County, there is limited baseline data on insect abundance and diversity, yet the area is undergoing rapid environmental and socio-economic changes. This project seeks to address this gap by documenting insect diversity while simultaneously promoting community education and awareness on insect conservation.
The project will focus on assessing insect abundance, diversity, and seasonal variation across selected habitats in Shimoni, including forest patches, agricultural areas, and human-modified landscapes. Standardized field sampling methods such as pitfall traps, sweep netting, and light traps will be employed during both wet and dry seasons to capture a representative range of insect taxa. Collected data will be analysed to determine species richness, relative abundance, and habitat associations, providing critical baseline information for future ecological monitoring and conservation planning in the region.
Beyond scientific data collection, a key aim of this project is to enhance community awareness and participation in biodiversity conservation. Local community members, including youth groups, farmers, and school representatives, will be engaged through interactive workshops, field demonstrations, and educational talks. These activities will emphasize the ecological and economic importance of insects, particularly pollinators and beneficial insects, and highlight simple, locally applicable conservation practices. By integrating scientific research with community education, the project aims to foster positive attitudes toward insects and encourage sustainable land-use practices.
The overall objectives of the project are: To generate baseline data on insect abundance and diversity in Shimoni, Kwale County; examine seasonal patterns and habitat influences on insect communities; and promote environmental education and community awareness to support long-term insect conservation. The findings will be shared with local stakeholders, conservation organizations, and academic audiences through reports, presentations, and outreach materials. Ultimately, this project seeks to contribute to both biodiversity conservation and community empowerment by linking ecological research with grassroots environmental education.