Research interests: My interests encompass human behavioral ecology, mutual aid, cooperation, prosociality, human and cultural evolution, and civic engagement with a focus on how ecological and evolutionary pressures shape human behaviors and drive social justice.
My academic journey has been driven by a profound interest in understanding the evolution of land tenure systems among pastoralist societies, with a particular focus on the Maasai people of Kenya. My research seeks to explore the cultural and economic ramifications of changing land tenure patterns, especially the shift from communal to individualized ownership. This transition mirrors broader trends in Kenyan government policies and growing land scarcity, with significant repercussions for Maasai culture, traditional livelihoods, and their future as a distinct community.
I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Cultural Studies (Anthropology) with Honors from Moi University in Kenya, which provided a solid foundation for my work in anthropology. Before joining Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, I gained valuable experience working across the private sector, government, and non-governmental organizations. In these roles, I applied anthropological concepts to real-world challenges, focusing on issues faced by vulnerable groups within the Kenyan communities. My experience in public administration and resource management gave me a unique perspective on how governmental policies and changing land tenure systems affect indigenous cultures. At Rutgers, my research aims to delve into the effects of land privatization on Maasai pastoral practices, examining its broader impact on social structures, traditional knowledge, and economic sustainability. Through this work, I hope to offer insights into the resilience and adaptability of indigenous communities as they navigate the pressures of evolving land policies and socio-economic changes.