People of the project
Researchers, educators, and field experts working across the Turkana Basin to uncover and share our human story.
Our approach
"You can't really know where you're going until you know where you have come from."
— Maya Angelou
The people who set direction for research, education, and operations.
Lecturer & Paleoanthropologist
Louise Leakey is a third-generation Kenyan paleoanthropologist who lives and works in Kenya. She leads research expeditions to the country's remote north, carrying forward a family legacy that has fundamentally shaped our understanding of human evolution.
Education & Outreach, Operations
Jeniffer's professional background spans management, procurement, banking, and travel. Daughter of famed fossil hunter Kamoya Kimeu, she leads educational programmes connecting communities to East Africa's paleontological treasures, and manages all the operations and logistics of the research project.
Finance & Administration
Gideon Njagi is a certified public accountant with over a decade of experience in financial management and budget control — he is the engine ensuring every expedition is adequately and sustainably funded, reported on and compliant.
Field Manager KFRP
Mutuku began working with KFRP in 2002. He held the position of field station Manager for the Turkana Basin Institute Ileret and in 2024 he rejoined KFRP to oversee all our field logistics. He has vast experience in managing camps in the remote north.
Research Chef
"I do this work because I love the work the researchers have done in our area in the previous years."
Education & Background
N/A
Weakness
I want the people working with me to be on time and avoid delays.
Discoveries & Work
I discovered a monkey phalange at Area 3. In 2026, I served tea to the President of Stony Brook at the camp.
Superpower
I can run the kitchen perfectly without supervision. I help in the field whenever asked.
What Drives Them
Interacting with colleagues and doing things from the bottom of my heart in a conducive environment.
Rapid Fire
| Favourite Site | Area 3 |
|---|---|
| Essential Tool | Magnifying lens |
| Holy Grail Fossil | Hominid skull |
| Biggest Challenge | Unpredictable weather |