This archive report was first published on 9 November 2019.
Meet Mpayon Loiboitongo'o, a 24-year-old Samburu woman who has become a household name in her community for her tireless efforts in elephant conservation. Known as Mama Tembo, she is the face and voice behind the popular song 'L'Tome Nkaina', which celebrates communities and conservation.
Born and raised in Lerata, Samburu County, Mpayon's love for singing began at a young age. She would often sing while playing and herding goats with her friends, and even sang for Samburu warriors. It was during one of these performances that she met her late husband, when she was just 11 years old.
After getting married, Mpayon's life took a dramatic turn. Her husband left for Nairobi to work as a night guard in 2017, but never returned. He died in the city, leaving Mpayon to care for their three young children, including a blind and deaf firstborn who lives at Wamba Children's Home.
Despite the challenges she faced, Mpayon persevered and continued to care for her family. She now lives in Lolgereded, in her late husband's home, and earns a living by keeping goats and making ornaments for sale.
But Mpayon's true passion lies in conservation. In 2017, she was chosen by her community to be the leader of Mama Tembos, a group of Turkana and Samburu women who monitor wildlife and livestock corridors in the Samburu-Laikipia ecosystem. As Mama Tembo, Mpayon and her team record animal movements and give early warnings of attempts to create settlements on pathways used by elephants and other wildlife in the region.
