Dr. Chemuku Wekesa

Dr. Chemuku Wekesa is a Principal Research Scientist (Landscape Ecology) with the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) and Regional Director for the Coast Eco-Region Research Programme. With over 15 years of experience, he specializes in the conservation and restoration of human-influenced natural environments through the Socio-Ecological Production Landscapes and Seascapes (SEPLS) model. His research focuses on coastal lowland forests, mangroves, and the Afromontane forests of Taita Hills, exploring ecosystem dynamics, biodiversity conservation, and resilience to climate change.

Dr. Wekesa has led and coordinated numerous donor-funded projects on ecological restoration, endangered species conservation, and participatory community development. He has published extensively, supervised postgraduate research, and served as an examiner and lecturer at universities in Kenya and abroad. A member of international networks including IPSI and INMIP, and a contributor to Kenya’s National Mangrove Ecosystem Restoration Guidelines, Dr. Wekesa brings invaluable scientific expertise and strategic insight to GNP’s mission.