Wild Women: Celebrating the Female Vets Protecting Kenya’s Wildlife

Dr. Mukami Ruoro at Lewa Conservancy © Klein Netto

In the spirit of International Women's Day, Nomad Africa is shining a light on six extraordinary women who are reshaping the future of conservation in Kenya. In a field often seen as rugged, unpredictable, and historically male-dominated, these wildlife vets are not just proving they belong—they’re uplifting each other along the way.

Through a tight-knit community of support, mentorship, and shared passion for wildlife, they’re redefining what it means to be on the frontlines of conservation. Thanks to Dr. Florence Kangethe, a vet at Ol Pejeta Conservancy, we get a rare glimpse into this sisterhood—a network of fearless women. With scalpel, syringe, and sheer determination, they heal injured wildlife, rescue endangered species, and protect the ecosystems that make Kenya one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth. But beyond the adrenaline and adventure, their work is filled with sacrifice, grit, and heart. These are the Wild Women safeguarding our wild heritage.

                                                                                                                      Dr. Sarange Angwenyi at Big Life Foundation. © James Hassell

Where it All Began

For many of these women, the path to wildlife medicine started with a simple, undeniable love of animals.

“I’ve always loved animals,” says Dr. Sharon Mulindi, a senior veterinary officer for the Kenya Wildlife. “My dad was a biology teacher who nurtured my curiosity. Between trips to the Animal Orphanage and watching documentaries together, I knew early on that I wanted to work with wildlife.”

For Dr. Juliet Waiyaki, now the resident vet at the Kenya Bird of Prey Trust, her inspiration came later, sparked by a guest lecture from none other than Dr. Sarange Angwenyi , Training Lead, Wildlife Health Watch, Smithsonian's Global Health Program, herself.

“It was one of the most formative talks I’ve ever attended,” Juliet recalls. “I left feeling curious, inspired—and now, years later, I’m doing the work I was meant to do.”

                                                                                                                                                        Dr. Juliet Waiyaki at Soysambu conservancy © John Kyallo

A Day in the Life

Behind every successful conservation story is a daily grind that few see.

“There’s no such thing as a typical day,” explains Dr. Melanie Wangui, who works at Loisaba Conservancy. “Some days I’m monitoring livestock health, other days I’m responding to wildlife emergencies or bottle-feeding orphaned kudu calves. But I’m always on call. Wildlife doesn’t stick to a 9-5 schedule.”

For Dr. Sarange, her work takes her across Kenya's rangelands, training rangers to monitor wildlife health.

“I’m constantly in awe of our landscapes, but also of the rangers I meet. Their dedication to protecting our heritage is unmatched."

The Challenges of the Job

Being a wildlife vet is not without its dangers—and biases.

“The animals are unpredictable, and so are the environments,” says Dr. Mukami Ruoro a senior veterinary officer for the Kenya Wildlife service, who has worked on high-profile cases like receiving the peafowl gifted to former President Uhuru Kenyatta.

“But beyond the physical risks, as a Black woman in this field, I’ve faced skepticism and assumptions about my abilities. Many still doubt whether a woman can handle the harsh realities of fieldwork. I’ve had to prove, over and over, that we can.”

Balancing this demanding work with personal life adds another layer of complexity.

“Society still expects women to carry the heavier load at home,” Mukami says. “It’s a constant juggle.”

                                                                                                                                                                          Dr. Mukami Ruoro at  Nairobi National Park © Ami Vitale

Moments That Matter

For all the challenges, the wins are unforgettable.

Mukami remembers the triumphant rewilding of a young lioness she rehabilitated and successfully reunited with her mother.

“It was ambitious, but we did it. Seeing them together again in the wild? I’ll never forget it.”

Dr. Florence Kangethe, Resident Vet at Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, reflects on career-defining moments like working with the world’s last Northern White Rhinos and winning Kenya’s Top 40 Under 40 Women award.

“It reminded me that our work truly matters—not just to the animals, but to the future of conservation.”

Meanwhile, Dr. Melanie proudly recounts her role in one of Kenya’s most historic conservation milestones: the return of Black Rhinos to Loisaba after 50 years.

“Monitoring their vitals during translocation, breathing in sync with them to keep them safe—it was surreal. And now we’re seeing new births. It doesn’t get better than that.”

                                                                                                                                                                      Dr Florence Kang’ethe at Ol Pejeta Conservancy © Kevin Kipruto

Breaking Barriers for Women

These women are not just carving out space for themselves—they’re paving the way for others.

“Thanks to the women who came before me, I know that not only can we be in this field—we can dominate,” says Dr. Juliet Waiyaki.

Dr. Sharon Mulindi adds,

“Women bring empathy, resilience, and strong community engagement. Conservation isn’t just about animals—it’s about people too. And women have long been at the forefront of that work.”

Dr. Sharon Mulindi at Ol Pejeta Conservancy © Rio the Photographer

Advice to the Next Generation

For young women dreaming of this path, Dr. Florence Kangethe offers encouragement:

“Embrace it fearlessly. Get as much experience as you can, and prioritize self-care. Find mentors. And stay committed. The impact you can make is incredible.”

But Dr. Sarange Angwenyi warns that the reality is not all glamorous.

“People often see the adventure and forget the sacrifice. It’s long days, time away from loved ones, and constant emotional strain. So if you know a conservationist, remind them to take care of themselves.”

                                                                                                                                                                  Dr. Juliet Waiyaki at Kenya Bird of Prey Trust Clinic © Gemma Baker

The Heartbreaks

The work can take a toll.

“Some cases stay with you,” says Dr. Juliet. “Especially with endangered species. Every loss feels like a step closer to extinction.”

And yet, despite the hardships, these women show up. For the rhinos. For the lions. For the birds of prey. For the future.

                                                                                                                                                                          Dr Florence Kang’ethe at Ol Pejeta Conservancy © Dylan Habil 

A Wild Sisterhood

As Kenya’s wild spaces face mounting threats, these women stand on the frontlines, not just as vets but as guardians of our shared natural heritage. Their journeys are as diverse as the landscapes they protect, but they’re united by a fierce love of wildlife—and an unbreakable commitment to conservation.

This International Women's Day, Nomad Africa celebrates these Wild Women. Their stories are a testament to the power of passion, resilience, and sisterhood in safeguarding the wild heart of Kenya.