The inspiring journey of a father and son at the heart of Sarara’s story!
If you’ve ever had the pleasure to spend time with Mark Lenanyankerra – one of Sarara’s most beloved guides – you’d have seen this landscape through his eyes, while being transported by his captivating stories and memories!
Like sharing how he fell asleep as a little boy herding cows, and how he woke up and realised they were missing. His story continues with a riveting account of him then mistakenly following the sounds of buffaloes as he searched for the livestock.
Similarly, his stories of the landscape and wildlife of Namunyak as it’s changed over many decades keep you at the edge of your seat – and are filled with history, personal details, and emotion.
It's not only guests who have benefitted from Mark’s ability to make this landscape come alive. One of his eldest children, Kevin, has followed in his father’s footsteps, and has always loved to hear him share more about his past and adventures.
“My father is a wonderful storyteller, and I have learnt so much about this region, our legacy, and our traditions through his words and memories. I think that’s where I got my passion – and why I ended up wanting to be a guide, just like him.”
Kevin Lenanyankerra
A LIFETIME IN THIS LANDSCAPE
Growing up in the Sarara Valley, Mark says Northern Kenya’s wilderness was teeming with wildlife when he was still a little boy. “As far as your eyes could see, all of this was grasslands, and the landscape was so open, with many species roaming around in great numbers!”
With threats like climate change, external poaching, and drought taking their toll, he also remembers a time when the landscape suffered and wildlife populations dwindled, and an intervention was needed to turn things around. “So as a community, led by our Elders, we took a stand for conservation, and started our conservancy!”
Since the establishment of Namunyak Community Conservancy three decades ago, Mark says, “I could start recognising the land of my childhood again! With more wildlife returning, including elephants who opened up corridors and pathways, it was clear our conservation efforts were working.”
“Sarara is part of you – and you’re also part of Sarara.”
Mark Lenanyankerra
PASSING THE TORCH
With such a passion for conservation, this wilderness, and its wildlife, it’s no wonder that Mark’s love for Namunyak was passed on to many of his nine children! With several of them still at school and studying, Kevin was the first to follow in his father’s footsteps, and Mark beams with pride when he listens to his son sharing his own journey of becoming a guide.
Mark fondly remembers how Kevin cared for young antelope like dik-diks when he was still a little boy. “He has always loved wildlife, and even though I asked him to think about other career options, he told me he wanted to join me, and also become a guide.”
A NEW GENERATION OF CONSERVATIONISTS
“My father wanted me to become a teacher, and one of my cousins said maybe I should become a doctor,” remembers Kevin. “But I wanted to become a guide, I wanted to do what my father does.” Leaving home to study at university in Mombasa, Kevin graduated with flying colours in tourism and management. When he returned, there was no stopping him – he couldn’t wait to share his knowledge with guests and keep learning more about this landscape and its rich biodiversity.
The timing was perfect, because Kevin and his father could then occasionally do game drives together – giving guests a unique father-and-son experience in the wilderness. It was just before Mark recently announced his retirement, leaving the “family business” in Kevin’s capable hands.
He can rest assured that the next generation of conservation-minded guides is taking their lead from the wisdom of their fathers and forefathers. As Kevin says: “My father’s life and stories will always be a great motivation in my life. I think that’s where my passion comes from.”
Ashe Oleng Mark for all the years and decades that you've inspired both guests and colleagues with your wisdom and stories. Although you will be missed, you'll still remain an integral part of Namunyak Conservancy's journey!
Field Notes
FROM MARK
Favourite animals as a young boy
Eland – because they reminded me of bulls. They have the same kind of horns, which are really impressive, and symbolise both strength and beauty.
Favourite animals today
Elephants! On game drives with guests, it’s also one of their favourite sightings.
Favourite bird
Golden-breasted starling. Most people like to spot birds of prey, but I just love the metallic shine of these colourful birds – which keeps changing according to the light.
FROM KEVIN
Favourite activity
Hiking – because I love noticing small things like insects and birds, as well as tracking and looking at the signs that nature leaves all around. You learn so much more when you walk!
Favourite topics
Apart from talking about our wildlife, I love sharing stories about our culture and Samburu’s history with guests – and how it all fits together here.
Goals
To keep learning more and obtain more qualifications – and become an expert guide in Kenya’s north.
Photos by Thige Njuguna