At this year’s International Association of Science Parks and Areas of Innovation (IASP) World Conference, Project Ngulia, originated from research at Linköping University under the leadership of Professor Fredrik Gustafsson, was thrust into the spotlight during a session dedicated to “Emerging Tech and AI.” The global conference, which brings together key persons in innovation from science parks and research institutions worldwide, showcased Project Ngulia as a prime example of how cutting-edge technology can drive conservation and sustainability.
The IASP World Conference is a platform for sharing knowledge and experiences that shape the future of science parks and innovation ecosystems globally. This year’s event attracted participants from across the globe, eager to exchange ideas and explore how emerging technologies can address critical global challenges. Among the highlights was Donald Bunge, Country Manager, presenting Project Ngulia during a session that also featured initiatives from Canada and Spain.
The panel also included Diaz Soledad, Managing Director of the Association of Science and Technology Parks of Spain, and Mikael Johnson, Associate Professor at Mäldardalens University. Photo: Konza Technopolis.
The project has gained international recognition for its innovative use of advanced technologies in conservation. Ngulia’s core mission is to protect the endangered black rhino in Kenya’s Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary, located within Tsavo National Park. By integrating AI, drone technology, and real-time monitoring systems, Project Ngulia has developed a method for tracking and protecting wildlife, significantly reducing poaching risks and enhancing the rhino population’s survival.
Beyond conservation, the presentation underscored how Project Ngulia’s technology could be applied to broader areas, including livestock management and environmental monitoring in other regions. The innovative approach leverages AI to track the rhinos’ movements, providing invaluable data to conservation teams on the ground, enabling quicker responses to threats, and offering insights into improving the habitat conditions within the sanctuary. The result is a model that has the potential to be replicated for similar conservation projects around the world.
Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson attended the presentation. Also in the picture, Tang Hao from Jiangsu Tuspark Innovation Research Institute, China, Donald Bunge from Kenya presenting project Ngulia’s, Jawad Ahmad from Canada, Diaz Soledad from Spain, and Mikael Johnson from Sweden brought a global perspective to the conversation. Photo: Konza Technopolis.
The IASP World Conference allows science parks to share experiences on how they support local and global innovation ecosystems. The conference is strongly characterized by learning and exchange of experiences.
“One of the key goals of this conference is to highlight projects that not only drive innovation but also address the pressing global issues of our time,” said Linköping Science Park CEO Lena Miranda, who also chairs the global board for the IASP. “During the days here in Nairobi, we have seen many examples of how science parks can foster projects that have both local impact and global relevance.”
Project Ngulia’s story is a testament to this approach’s power, offering hope for Kenya’s black rhinos and wider global efforts to protect endangered species and promote sustainability worldwide.
