Prehistoryclubkenya

Building Bridges Between Evolution and Religion

2011-11-28T04:40:00.000-08:00

Science writer Lawrence Nzuve looks at a conference which was so successful Darwin would have been proud were he alive today!

The 2nd Human Evolution Workshop for Kenyan Educators, 2011 was recently organised at the Louise Leakey Auditorium bringing together heads of schools and educators and participants included those who were not present when the first workshop was held in 2007.

A report prepared by the Prehistory Club of Kenya President and National Museums of Kenya Senior Research Scientist Dr. Fredrick Manthi painted a grim picture of the knowledge about prehistory which currently permeates in the country and specially in Kenya's learning institutions.

Prehistory Club President Dr. Manthi addresses the participants (Photos courtesy of Prehistory Club of Kenya)

Noting that Kenya is endowed with a rich prehistoric record (particularly fossil remains) that has contributed significantly to our understanding of the evolutionary history of human and non-human species, Dr. Manthi reiterated that in spite of this rich record, a large number of Kenyans lack accurate scientific information about our prehistoric past, and how different biological species have evolved over time. Although History within which prehistory and evolution are taught in Kenyan high schools is an examinable subject, this subject has been made optional in the Kenyan education system. Statistical evidence has shown that very few students have interest in History, and thus there has been a decline in enrollment. Although the situation may be attributed to numerous factors including the perceptions that most Kenyans hold towards the concept of evolution, lack of knowledge about the importance of prehistory and evolution to understanding our past and also predicting the future, can be blamed for the small number of Kenyans pursuing careers in this discipline.

Held between the 31st July - 2nd August 2011, the 2nd Wenner-Gren Foundation sponsored workshop, whose theme was ‘Building bridges between evolution and religion’, aimed at helping teachers deal with perceptions about evolution, which would ultimately enable them to effectively teach the topic. Considering that it is not logistically possible to bring together teachers from all over the country, the workshop targeted high school teachers and educators from institutions that were not represented in the 1st workshop which was also sponsored by the Wenner-Gren Foundation and took place in 2007.

NMK Director-General Dr. Idle Farah opening the Workshop (Photos courtesy of Prehistory Club of Kenya)

During the tour, emphasis was made on the need for the teachers to organize educational visits for their students to the Cradle of Humankind Gallery, as this would help the students appreciate the concept of evolution. The second day marked the official opening of the workshop, during which Dr. Idle O. Farah, the Director General of NMK and senior scientists at the NMK spoke about the importance of the Wenner-Gren-sponsored series of workshops on prehistory and evolution. During the opening session, the need for Kenyan scholars and educators to join hands in educating the youth about the country’s rich prehistoric heritage was also underscored by all speakers.

“Why don’t we hear on our TVs students saying they want to become Palaeontologists or Archaeologists, why do we always hear them saying they want to become neuro-surgeons”, posed Dr. Farah.

Speakers who included Dr. Richard Potts of the Smithsonian Institution (SI), whose title was: “What does it mean to be human: the Smithsonian Institution experience in public education on human origins”. During this presentation, Dr. Potts highlighted, among other things, some of the public education programs he is involved in at the SI, and the impact that these programs have had to the general public. It was evident from Dr. Potts’ talk that there is a growing curiosity among a large number of Americans towards prehistory and human evolution, a phenomenon that is also evident in Kenya.

Other lectures were by Prof. Simiyu Wandibba of the University of Nairobi, which was titled: “Evolution and religion: the tertiary education perspective”, which was followed by a presentation from Dr. Naomi Levin (John Hopkins University), whose title was: “Stable isotope studies and human evolution”. While Prof. Wandibba’s talk centered on the different ways of addressing issues raised by university students on prehistory and evolution, Dr. Levin’s lecture highlighted how the food we eat gets absorbed into our bodies and how we can document dietary preferences of different faunal species from the enamel of their teeth, and how these diets would have influenced the evolutionary trajectories of these species. This presentation was followed by a talk from Mrs. Purity Kimaita, a teacher at Ngara Girls Secondary School in Nairobi, which was titled: “Reconciling religion and evolution”. Mrs. Kimaita is a renown speaker among Kenyan high school teachers and is famous for her persuasive presentations on how it is possible to bridge the gap between the evolutionary explanation for the origin of life versus the creation one. Dr. David Kyule of the University of Nairobi, gave a talk: “Teachers’ experiences in teaching evolution”. It is important to point out that all the presentations attempted to persuade the teachers against the popular perceptions that the evolutionary explanation for origin of life and humanity conflicts their religious beliefs. In order to engage the teachers with the curriculum developers (the KIE), the last presentation of the day which was given by Mrs. Virginia Njerenga of KIE, dwelt on how a new curriculum which is currently under development was going to accommodate the teaching of prehistory and evolution, and how this is tailored within Kenya’s Vision 2030.

Participants follow proceedings at the 2nd Human evolution workshop 2011 (photo courtesy of Prehistory Club of Kenya)

The third day of the workshop began with more presentations on prehistory. These included a keynote speech by Prof. Stan Ambrose, which was titled: “The African origin of cooperation”. Prof. Ambrose used archaeological records from a number of Late Stone Age sites in Kenya to demonstrate how social networks were established, and how this helped in maintaining cooperation between different human populations across the landscape. Dr. Fredrick Manthi's presentation was titled: “Intrigues of the past”. Dr. Manthi used this presentation to demonstrate to the teachers Kenya’s diverse fossil record, which includes large mammalian fauna such as the gomphotheres which had four tusks. He underscored the importance of these faunal remains to understanding the evolutionary history of different extinct and extant faunal taxa. Prof. Bonnie Jacobs from the Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas presentation was titled: “Plant fossils as evidence of evolution”, and highlighted different characteristics in plant fossils that are a testimony of evolutionary processes. In his presentation titled: “Public programs at the NMK: teachers and evolution”, Mr. Daniel Mitei of NMK underscored the important role the NMK’s Public Programs Department plays in educating teachers and students alike about different research activities and public programs undertaken at the NMK. He acknowledged the important role the Prehistory Club was playing in educating the Kenyan public about prehistory and evolution. In order to further reinforce all the issues discussed in the presentations, the educators were treated to a behind the scenes tours of the Palaeontological and archaeological collections at the NMK. During the tours, it was evident that the educators were mesmerized by particularly the rich fossil record from Kenyan sites, which includes specimens of both extinct and extant genera. This in a big way helped to underscore the importance of prehistory research and how this helps in understanding the evolutionary history of different faunal species.

The closing ceremony which was officiated by the NMK’s Director for Research and Collections. During this ceremony, all schools represented in the workshop were awarded a package containing a cast of the ‘Turkana boy’ (Homo erectus) skull courtesy of the Uraha Foundation in Germany and the NMK, the ‘Human Story Book’ courtesy of the National Geographic Society, and a DVD containing stories on prehistory and human evolution courtesy of the Smithsonian Institution.

Participants pose for a group photo outside the Louise Leakey Auditorium: It was the most successful workshop so far (Photos courtesy of Prehistory Club of Kenya)

The workshop availed to the teachers an opportunity to meet and chat with professional prehistorians and evolutionary biologists who study and teach evolution. The workshop discussed different ways through which educators may bridge the gap between evolution and religion, thus making the teaching of prehistory and human evolution interesting to both the educators and the students. It is also noteworthy that the President of the Prehistory Club of Kenya is in contact with KIE and plans are underway for a consultative meeting between them and the NMK and other stake-holders in the Kenyan education sector. Many of the teachers who attended the workshop have already launched satellite Prehistory Clubs in their schools, and the Prehistory Club office in Nairobi will work closely with the schools in order to advance awareness about prehistory and evolution.

The Prehistory Club would like to thank the Wenner-Gren Foundation for their Financial support and the NMK for logistical support as well as other stakeholders who ensured that the workshop was a success and especially the Prehistory-club coodinator Grace Kyalo whose input went a long way in making the 2nd Human evolution workshop for Kenyan Educators such a success.

University Don gives talk in aid of Prehistory Club

2011-11-24T02:03:00.000-08:00

By Lawrence Nzuve

Pennsylvania University Distinguished Professor of Anthropology and a world renown researcher in primates Prof. Nina Jablonski was the guest speaker at the Kenya Museum Society's dinner talk that was held in the Louis Leakey auditorium in the Nairobi National Museum on the 23rd November 2011. The talk organised by the KMS was to help in fundraising for the Prehistory Club of Kenya.

(R-L) KMS' Patricia, Prof. Jablonski and Dr. Manthi just before the talk

Giving a well attended talk that attracted prehistory enthusiasts from all over the city and without, Nina reiterated that Skin color is not a unique attribute that can be used to define races. Jablonski wondered why teachers were constantly looking around for teaching materials on evolution while the skin in actual fact was a moving laboratory that everyone possessed

"Racial discrimination on the basis of Skin color is a biological nonsense", offered Prof. Jablonski.

Prof. Jablonski addresses prehistory enthusiasts

She added that the obsession with skin color was as a result of humans being very visual and hence missing the whole point and that under the skin all humanity was the same.

All in all, it was an evening to remember and at the end of it all, she offered 500 US dollars to be matched by KMS members and members of the public Dollar for Dollar in aid of the Club.

Also attending was the Prehistory Club chair Dr. Fredrick Manthi and students from Peponi school as well as KMS members and other Nairobi socialites.

Participants keenly follow the talk: they included Peponi students

TEACHERS WORKSHOP

2011-06-13T22:14:00.000-07:00

Teachers Workshop
31st July- 2nd August, 2011
Louis Leakey Auditorium

Evolution is the unifying concept of biology and has many practical applications in society, particularly in the area of human health. However, evolution can also be challenging to teach effectively. The Prehistory Club of Kenya is organizing a prehistory teachers' workshop sponsored by the Wenner Gren Foundation, U.S.A. which will help participants deal with student preconceptions, and demonstrate how to make evolution relevant for students. The workshop will avail to the teachers an opportunity to meet and chat with professional evolutionary biologists who both study and teach evolution. The workshop will discuss the challenges and opportunities encountered in a public conversation about human evolution, and will discuss what materials and resources are available to successfully convey the topic in both informal and formal learning environments; and finally, use humans as an example in teaching core evolutionary concepts.

KU students tour Earth Sciences Department

2010-03-15T07:03:00.000-07:00

Lawrence Nzuve

It does seem that the story of our lives; origins better put, continue to awe and interest many people. This fact can never be over emphasized. The Earth sciences Department played host to a class of evolutionary biology students from the University of Kenyatta led by Prof. Mitei. The enthusiastic students were not disappointed as they were taken through the laboratory by Dr. Alfreda Ibui who is a Research Scientist in the paleontology section of the department and Victor Iminjili; a graduate student from the University of Georgia. Dr. Ibui took time to go through the different taxa stored on shelves and on the floor of this magnificent laboratory ranging from huge tortoise and turtle fossil carapace to the extinct skeletons of elephants and Rhinos.

Dr. Alfreda Ibui of the Earth Sciences Department with a one-on-one with Kenyatta University students. Prof Mitei (in the foreground) looks on (photos courtesy of Lawrence Nzuve)

Being two groups of students for convenience, Victor Iminjili a doctoral student from the University of Georgia took a second group round the laboratory and he too went through the paces. Students were really impressed as was evident from the way they asked questions and took note, Prof. Mitei also advised the students on the spot about the various openings that are available to them and also challenged them to take up this noble study. Having given them a brief history of early Research by both Louis and Mary, Prof. Mitei threw the challenge to the students to follow in the foot steps of the localized research work where trained Kenyan scientists are now making great discoveries

This is it! Victor stresses a point to Kenyatta University students (photos courtesy of Lawrence Nzuve)

If the concentration of the students was anything to go by, then this trip was indeed a success. It is hoped that this will spur their interest and also help them in answering most lingering questions on our origins and those of other animals who clearly have changed over time.

The faces that tell it all: these Kenyatta University students are dwarfed by an Elephant cranium at the paleontology Laboratory (photos courtesy of Lawrence Nzuve)

We would like to thank the head of Earth Sciences department, paleontology section and the archeology sections of the Earth Sciences department as well as Victor and Dr. Ibui who facilitated this beneficial trip to the laboratories, as well as Prof. Mitei who availed the students for this important tour

Earth Sciences Department shines at 2nd Scientific conference

2010-01-20T03:06:00.000-08:00

Lawrence Nzuve

It was the 2nd Scientific Conference held from the 23rd November to 25th November 2009 and this year it was brought home.It was hosted at the Louis Leakey Auditorium and there was everything a conference of this magnitude could offer. The theme of the conference was 'Research for Humanity and Vision 2030' and was opened by the minster for National Heritage and Culture Hon. William Ole Ntimama and patronized by heavy weights in conservation circles in Kenya including distinguished gentlemen as Prof Joseph Alcamo (Chief Scientist UNEP) and Prof. Ratemo Michieka both of whom presented a key note paper. Also present was the PS ministry of National Heritage and Culture Dr. Jacob Ole Miaron and the host Dr. Idle Farah NMK Director General. Various Speeches were given by various participating personalities.

(Background)A section of participants at the 2nd Scientific Conference held at The NMK. This year, the event was brought home.(pic courtesy of NMK)

It was however the presentations of three speakers which instantly caught the eye of the participants probably because in their own ways they go in tandem with the core business of the Prehistory Club of Kenya. In her eloquent presentation to the 2nd Scientific Conference, Archeologist Dr. Purity Kiura presented a powerful paper on 'Human Dietary studies and Isotope Values of Fish from Tropical Lakes in East Africa' co authored with Julia Lee Thorp of University of Bradford UK. In her captivating presentation Dr. Kiura explained how isotope analysis of bones can inform us about the diets of people in the past by indicating the quantities of certain resources like fish, certain cereals, animal flesh etc by first understanding the natural distribution of isotopes in food webs. It emerged that the most useful distributions are carbon and nitrogen isotopes. Her study compared the nitrogen and carbon isotopes of a large number of fish specimens from Lake Turkana and Victoria with a view of establishing whether the pattern held elsewhere or was peculiar to Lake Turkana

Dr. Kiura of the Archeology section of the Earth Sciences during her presentation (pic courtesy of NMK)

The other paper was presented by Dr. Fredrick Manthi who is also the Chair of the Prehistory Club of Kenya on 'Small mammals' tooth enamel: a means to understanding palaeoenvironments'. A key area of investigation has always been the environmental contexts in which early hominins lived and how these environments may have shaped the evolutionary history of the hominins. Dr. Manthi went on to explain that numerous methods of reconstructing past environments have been used, the most recent one being isotopic analysis of mammalian tooth enamel in order to interpret dietary signatures and subsequently the environmental conditions in which the animal/s lived. Originally this method involved grinding of the a portion of the tooth and then collecting the resultant powder for analysis. This method required a large amount of sample material. With the use of a new technique known as GC/IRMS (gas chromatography/isotope ratio mass spectrometry). With this, it is possible to obtain carbon and oxygen carbon data with minimal damage to the teeth, especially important for small mammals. Explaining this study, Dr. Manthi pointed out that it is significant that small mammals such as rodents and insectivores have a number of unique characteristics that make them amenable to ecological change. In conclusion, Dr. Manthi offered that isotopic analysis of rodent incisors, which are continuously growing, hold promise for yielding information useful for understanding past environmental conditions.

Dr. Manthi of the paleontology section and Chair of the Prehistory Club of Kenya on the podium (pic courtesy of NMK)

To cap the day that was, was Dr. Francis Kirera who chose to delve in the most interesting of all topics with his breathtaking presentation titled, 'Celebrating Darwin Bi-Centennial: A dilemma or wonderland'. Dr. Kirera offered that Charles Robert Darwin is credited for proposing the theory of natural selection as the mechanism behind organismal evolution; a theory that revolutionized the way we understand nature and how it shapes life forms. He added, 'the key to his theory and the reason his idea resonates both with fans and foes, it placed man in the midst of nature, meaning that humans are integral and intimate part of natural world'. Unlike equal thinkers like Newton, Einstein or Galileo, Darwin's idea is ubiquitously known, easily quoted across-the -board, and has equally influenced many people. The first reason is because his theory is easily understood yet one that is contested and debated. The second one is the dogma of 'fixated society' which many still hold dear. In his 1871 book"the Decent of man", Darwin posited that Africa was the Cradle of humanity. Indisputably, his prediction was right and today research and evidence from early human fossils and molecular studies support this. The NMK has been the home of all these research findings and house a most impressive collection of fossils which are key to this study. In conclusion Dr. Kirera observed, " the study of human evolution is becoming even more relevant today to us as we face the unknown and often uncertain future".

Moving the crowds; Paleontology Section's Dr. Kirera powers his presentation. It was arguably the most thought provoking talk of the whole conference(pic courtesy of NMK)

Once again we take this early opportunity to thank the National Museums of Kenya through the able stewardship of the Director General Dr. Idle Farah, and all the invited distinguished guests who presented at the conference by way of key note addresses and papers as well as power point presentations and posters. Our special thanks go to the Director of Research and Collections Dr. Helida Oyieke and the organizing committee Chair Dr. Lange and members; too numerous to mention and all those who by their mere attendance made the conference worth its salt!

The Museums' Open Day - 27/28th November 2009

2010-01-10T21:59:00.000-08:00

Francis Ndiritu M.

The Earth Sciences Department of the NMK once again has emerged top by scientific and research ratings during the just concluded Museums' Open Day to the public. The occasion was organized on 27th and 28th November 2009 and graced by the Director General National Museums of Kenya among other dignitaries. The Museum Open Day (s) is a day or days set aside every year where by the public is invited to have a glimpse of the roles and functions of the museum in national building. During these two days, all the Departments show cased their prowess of which the Earth Sciences tied with the Center for Biodiversity as winners in the scientific potential rating. Of prehistory Concern was a very well rehearsed display organized by the Paleontology, Archaeology, Geology and Palynology sections of the NMK.

photos 1 and 2 represents some of the interactive parts provided by the Earth Sciences Dept. during the open Day. Grinding stone was and is a crucial tool if food processing and an important artifact in prehistory. In the second photo the public was given an opportunity to have a photo and compare themselves with their ancestors (Pic courtesy of Earth Sciences Dept, NMK)

The Departments tent was basically a crowd puller, from the well documented and simplified chronology of human origins story represented by skull replicas of different hominids preserved at the NMK. The paleontology Section show cased a fabulous presentation of hominid skulls that best explains the origins and evolution of mankind from the earliest known fossil to the modern man. This was to pin the anatomical changes that has occurred in man over time. This was compared with the simultaneous changes in food selection that man has used. The changes in feeding is a likely factor which shaped the evolution of humankind. Man started with law and unprocessed food and with time mastered the art of processing food.

The left photo shows the human origins table whereas the right one show the changes in diet and food processing that man has used with time (Pic courtesy of Earth Sciences Dept, NMK)

The Geology Section show cased some of the mineral resources the country has, their uses, locality and the future of geology as a discipline. The public got the opportunity to identify themselves with minerals that came from their localities. Meanwhile, the Palynology Section was warning the public on the effects of global warming using Mt. Kilimanjaro models to prove how the snow has been varnishing over time.

Dr. Idle Farah, Director of the NMK with other dignitaries visit
the Geology and Palynology Sections during the Museums' Open Day(Pic courtesy of Earth Sciences Dept, NMK)

The Archaeology Section also killed it with a fascinating fine collection of prehistory artifacts. To bring a real taste of what these artifacts meant to the users, the section compared these artifacts with their modern counterparts tools. These included grinding tools, cutting, pressing, cooking, lighters, storing etc.

Miss Christine explains to the chief guests some important

points at the at the Archaeology table during the Museums' Open Day (Pic courtesy of Earth Sciences Dept, NMK)

The information desks was also present where by the Department had produced brochures, newsletters, T-shirts, books, mugs etc for giving out and selling to the public.

The information desk where books, newsletters, brochures, t-shirts, mugs, plates and other materials were placed for the public to pick and buy (Pic courtesy of Earth Sciences Dept, NMK)

Origins and prehistory: remembering heroes from the past

2009-11-30T22:08:00.000-08:00

Lawrence Nzuve

Prehistory as the study of the past; events and objects that shaped our history as we know it today is in no doubt a fascinating topic in today's life. The human person has an overwhelming desire to know how it was in those first moments when life came into being. The prehistory Club of Kenya has over the years taken an enviable role in this noble yet very important quest. Not just that though. The National Museums of Kenya under whose auspices the Club operates recently feted one of its retired employees with a rare recognition. Except that it was not just an ordinary recognition nor was it another ordinary retiree.

(Sitted from lt) Mr. Kamoya Kimeu, Dr. Miaron, Hon. Ntimama and Mrs Maina from Nairobi School and NMK DG, Dr. Farah ( rt standing) pose for a photo with Nairobi school students and another one of their teachers(pic courtesy of NMK)

Kamoya Kimeu is known the world over for his fossil discovery prowess and in particular for his famous discovery of the Turkana Boy. The most visible of the hominid gang members as this exclusive group is called, Kimeu is a past recipient of a presidential medallion; Order of the Grand Warrior (OGW) conferred on him in recognition of his contribution to the quest for the origins of humankind.

Kamoya poses with Prehistory Club of Kenya officials (from left) Mr. Francis Ndiritu, Mrs. Grace Kyalo and Dr. Fredrick Manthi, the Chair. Next to Dr. Manthi is Mr. Robert who works for NMK(pic courtesy of Nzuve)

To this end the Prehistory Club organised students of Nairobi school who recited a poem entitled 'mwana wa Kiturkana' in his honor and also the NMK had a beautiful cake prepared to as part of the wider celebrations to mark the opening of the Second NMK Science Conference which was graced by National Heritage Minister Hon. William Ole Ntimama and his PS. Prof. Jacob ole Miaron among a cabal of important guests including the Director General of the NMK Dr. Idle Farah and the Director of Research and Collections Dr. Helida Oyieke. This was to celebrate the Silver Jubilee of Turkana Boy and also to officially hand over the medal that was awarded to Mr. Kamoya Kimeu by former US President Ronald Reagan at the White House. A special cake was prepared for this occasion too and the girls who recited the poem, did not disappoint. All in all, it was a good opportunity to not only underscore the place that Kenya holds in the preservation and contribution to science, but also to remember the faces behind the success.

Students of Nairobi School reciting a poem at the Conference opening; these bright students have a prehistory Club in the school which is helping spread the story of our past( pic courtesy of NMK)

The Prehistory Club of Kenya salutes this gallant son of Kenya whose individual and collective contribution has since rewritten the history of Humankind and put Kenya on the global map in as far as research in this important field is concerned. We sincerely thank the National Museums of Kenya for facilitating this important day.

'Creation vs. Evolution’ explained: Murang'a outreach

2009-11-23T22:41:00.000-08:00

Lawrence Nzuve

The recent outreach program to the larger Murang'a district done by the Prehistory club was perhaps the most entertaining and informative of the outreach programs done to date. This being the last of the series this year, the size of the team from Nairobi was telling. The main Speaker was Dr. Alfreda Ibui, Senior Research Scientist, National Museums of Kenya, Earth Science Department, Paleontology Section and the other speaker was Ms. Angela Kabiru, Research Scientist, National Museums of Kenya, Earth Science Department, Archeology Section. Accompanying them were the facilitation team of Mrs. Grace Kyalo and Francis Ndiritu; senior officials of the Prehistory club who were in charge of the logistics and also Mr. Samuel Wamae representing the Kenya Museums Society. Attending schools were Murang’a High School, Kahuhia Girls High School, Kiambugi Secondary School and Weithaga Secondary School.

Attentive students from the larger Murang'a District follow the lecture keenly: evolution belief was demystified

After a brief introductory session, Mrs. Kyalo invited Dr. Ibui to the podium to start the first presentation which was divided into two subtopics i.e. ‘Creation vs. Evolution’ and ‘Evolution and the Human Fossil Evidence’. In the first subtopic she explained the similarities between the evolution theory of human origins and evolution with the biblical belief of creation by a supreme being who is God. She narrated the two concepts sighting facts from the scientific geological time scale and comparing this with the scriptures from the book of Genesis in the holy Bible. This session was meant to ease the superstition among the students that the study of evolution is all about denying God as the true creator and clear the doubt that there is no controversy between religion and evolution except in peoples’ minds.

In the second part of her lecture, Dr. Ibui categorically highlighted on the immense fossil collection we have in Kenya. She discussed important issues in human evolutionary history such as bipedalism including when the first evidence of walking uprightly on two legs was witnessed. She looked at the theory of adaptive radiation and how this concept assisted the human ancestors to spread all over Africa. The emergence of early Homo was also dealt with particularly on how these species were adapted to their environments, including their stone tool technologies of the Oldowan and Acheulean nature. Points on the Neanderthals, archaic Homo sapiens and the early modern humans were included in Dr. Ibui’s presentation especially on their morphology and adaptability to their environments. Lastly, Dr. Ibui explained a few points about the modern humans Homo sapiens sapiens.

The second speaker presented on a topic entitled ‘Digging up the Past’. She defined archaeology as the scientific study of material evidence to find out about the human cultures of the past or basically the scientific study of remains of past human life and activities. Ms. Angela gave an elaborate lecture on the techniques of obtaining archaeological materials and the tools technologies of the Early Stone Age, Middle Stone Age, Late Stone Age, Neolithic and the Iron Age. In her lecture, she mentioned that the H. habilis was associated largely with the Oldowan Technology of the Early Stone Age whereas the H. erectus used the Acheulean Technology. Stone tools and other artifacts were listed in her power point presentation and on the bench where every student had an opportunity to observe them at will after the lecture. There were also fossil casts of different species of early man, modern man and gorilla for comparison. All these were placed in order from the oldest to the latest to demonstrate to the students the order of human evolution clearly indicated by the enlargement of brain case from the oldest to the latest and the sophistication of tools from the earliest.

tools of our fore parents: students keenly look at archeological artifacts displayed for them at the immensely informative outreach program

Lastly Mr. Samuel stood to the podium and gave a short explanation of the mandate of the Kenya Museums Society, including the role played by the Museums towards maintaining prehistoric, cultural and natural resources before the speakers finally fielded questions from the students on diverse topics and then participants were issued with books, hand outs and brochures, before one student gave a vote of thanks.

We thank the Leakey Foundation for once again funding this important Outreach Program

Origin of species and coming home:Thomeandu Outreach

2009-11-04T00:09:00.000-08:00

By Lawrence Nzuve

The recent Outreach Programme by the Prehistory Club that took place in Thomeandu Boys High School was like a home coming event to Dr. Fredrick Manthi EBS; the able chair of the Prehistory Club of Kenya who did his secondary certificate from this school. Not only was the opportunity befitting for him and his team to give back to his former school, but also to advise the students on matters ranging from discipline to time management. Dr. Manthi too took time to discuss with the teachers on the ways to help improve the school running and development.

Dr. Manthi (left) explains a point to National Heritage Minister Hon. William Ntimama at a past function. Looking on is Kenya National Museums Director General Dr. Idle Farah

In his lecture to the schools, Dr. Manthi discussed the topics of human origins and evolution. The concept of Struggle for existence; survival for the fittest; whereby only the best suit species or individuals survive was discussed at lengthy. This concept was coined by Sir Charles Darwin in his book ‘on the origin of species’. In his talk, Dr. Manthi clarified to the students that evolution is as a result of pressures to species, populations or communities by the environment, making them change to adapt to the surrounding changes. However such pressures are minimal to humans today because of the advancements in modern technology, whereby man has tamed the environments so much. Different ways and means to make life bearable from transport system, communication, production, processing etc, are some of the steps man has taken to tame the environments. With this in place the rate of biological evolution in humans is too slow and gradual such that it can not be noticed within a single generation

Another concept that was looked into is the famous Lamarck’s theory of ‘use and disuse’. This is another reason that probably causes evolution of species according to Lamarck. A good example is the lost tail in apes as a result of changed behavior from all-time tree dwellers to partly ground dwellers. The tail is important in arboreal species for balancing while jumping from tree to tree.

Dr. Manthi discussed the differences and similarities between the early humans’ ancestors from the genus Australopithecus, through Paranthropus, to Homo in a chronological order. Possible reasons why the hominids got extinct were looked into; a good example being the Neanderthals who were incorporated into the larger gene pool of the more anatomically advanced species the Cro-Magnon. Methods of dating were a topic of interest where by two methods i.e. the relative and absolute methods were discussed. Accompanying Dr. Manthi in his tour was Mrs. Dr. Grace Manthi; Coordinator Prehistory Club of Kenya who was in charge of organizing , coordinating and other logistics.

To break the monotony Dr. Manthi discussed briefly the fossils of non-faunal species housed at the National Museums of Kenya. This was to inform the students that evolution is not a preserve of primates alone and that all other species have evolved alongside primates. The lecture was summarized by information on Career opportunities in prehistory. The minimum requirements required in pursuing courses in archaeology, paleontology and geology were discussed and the advantages associated with undertaking careers in these fields.

Part of the participants who attended the Makueni Outreach Programme follow keenly the proceedings

To recap his talk, Dr. Manthi took considerable time to explain on the pertinent issues on the science of humans’ origins and evolution. Matters of environmental issues were discussed whereby the participants agreed to plant trees as a means of checking global warming and desertification. He accentuated that ‘evolution’ and ‘extinction’ of species is still present and therefore conservation of the remaining species is the role of man. The teachers commended the Leakey Foundation for sponsoring this outreach program which is helping them to answer most of the challenging questions they face daily in their line of duty while teaching prehistory.

We thank the Leakey Foundation for funding this outreach programme.

Overview of Human Evolution; message to Meru

2009-10-16T04:31:00.000-07:00

By Lawrence Nzuve

Spreading once again the Evolution message, the prehistory club recently set out for Meru to meet young science enthusiasts drawn from several schools in the larger Meru district and specifically targeted were those studying History and Biology. Schools in attendance included Meru School,Kaaga Boys Secondary School,Kaaga Girls Secondary School, Kinoro Girls Secondary School, Mwithumwiru Secondary School, St. Eugene Secondary School.

Attending this outreach program were Dr. Fredrick Manthi, Senior Research Scientist, National Museums of Kenya, Earth Science Department, Paleontology Section. Post-doctoral Fellow Turkana Basin Institute, Stony Brook University, New York,who was the main speaker and Mr. Francis Ndiritu, Operations and Public affairs, Prehistory Club of Kenya who was in charge of photography and other logistics

The Principal of Meru School welcomed all the participating students and teachers before handing over the mantle to Dr. Manthi to begin his lecture. The participants were very eager to learn as portrayed by their vividly cheerful mood. To start them off was a film entitled ‘Allosaurus, a Walking with the Dinosaurs Special’. The humor from the film kept the students cheerful throughout the video session. This was from the mode of feeding of the dinosaurs including the predatory behavior, to the locomotion, reproduction, aggression displays, juveniles at play and groups altruism etc.

Keen students and teachers who attended the Meru outreach

‘Human Evolution: An Overview’, is the talk being given to secondary schools across the country. Dr. Manthi elaborated on the topics of human origins and evolution majorly on characteristics of past human ancestors. Struggle for existence; survival for the fittest which is in short Adaptation for survival coined by Sir Charles Darwin in his book ‘on the origin of species’ was the key concept of discussion. Students were let to understand that evolution is as a result of pressures to species, populations or communities by the environment, making them change to adapt to the surrounding changes. This is generally referred to as ‘Descent with modification’ whereby the offspring are better acquainted to the environment than the parents. With the modern technology, man has tamed the environments so much such that the pressures that would lead to evolution in humans today are minimal. The inventory of reliable and fast means of transport, production and processing of foods, sedentary lifestyle and good homes, friendly gadgets such as deep freezers, air conditioners etc, and mode of clothing i.e. warm clothes in the cold environments and vice versa are some of the steps man has taken to tame the environment. With this in place the rate of biological evolution in humans is too slow and will continue to remain so.

The Lamarck’s theory of ‘use and disuse’ was also discussed as a likely factor that causes evolution of species too. This was in particular funny to the students possibly due to their naughty adolescent character. Dr. Manthi gave an example of the lost tails in some primates, for example the apes as a result of changed behavior from all-time tree dwellers to sometimes ground dwellers. The tail is important in arboreal species for balancing while jumping from tree to tree.

Dr. Manthi compared and contrasted the differences and similarities between the early humans ancestors from the genus Australopithecus, through Paranthropus, to Homo in a chronological order. He discussed the relative and absolute methods of dating. Other non-hominid fauna and floral species were looked at briefly before embarking on the career opportunities in prehistory. The minimum requirements required in pursuing courses in archaeology, paleontology and geology were discussed and the advantages associated with undertaking careers in these fields.

Questions on humans’ origins and evolution were asked and Dr. Manthi took considerable time to clarify on the pertinent issues on the science of humans’ origins and evolution. Caring for the environments and planting trees was emphasized to ensure that humans as a species has a future. Dr. Manthi also underscored the fact that the terms ‘evolution’ and ‘extinction’ of species are not yet extinct. The teachers commended the Leakey Foundation for sponsoring this outreach program which is helping them to answer most of the challenging questions they face daily in their line of duty while teaching prehistory

Dr. Manthi gives his powerful presentation; Meru outreach was an eye opener and students were left in stitches at times

The Meru Central outreach program was a great success and this is attributed to the hard work of the Meru Museums’ Staff in mobilizing the schools. The Prehistory Club believes that the information fed to these students will serve to improve the face of prehistory in Kenya now and in the future. We wish to air our appreciation to the Leakey foundation and the National Museums of Kenya for this laudable program.

We express our heart felt gratitude to the Leakey Foundation for the great support they have continued to offer to the Club.

Human Evolution: An Overview

2009-09-24T23:43:00.000-07:00

Lawrence Nzuve

Kitale outreach Program was by far the largest of the programs that the Prehistory club has undertaken in recent past. So huge was the attendance the organizers had to arrange for two groups after the Kitale Museum auditorium could not contain the young science enthusiasts drawn from a record ten secondary schools!

The main speaker Dr Fredrick Manthi,Senior Research Scientist, National Museums of Kenya, Earth Science Department, Paleontology Section, Post-doctoral Fellow Turkana Basin Institute, Stony Brook University, New York. gave his lecture on ‘Human Evolution: An Overview’, which is the common lecture being given to secondary schools across the country. He discussed the topics of human origins and evolution; the major characteristics that defined the genus Australopithecus, Paranthropus and Homo. He discussed the role of Charles Darwin in the understanding of species origins and evolution including the role of adaptation for survival as the key factor that led to evolution. The Lamarck’s theory of ‘use and disuse’ was also discussed as a likely factor that cause evolution too. Dr. Manthi compared and contrasted the differences and similarities between the early humans ancestors in a chronological order from the oldest to the modern man. Methods of dating were also an ingredient in his presentation. In both sessions, Dr. Manthi commended the good work done by the Prehistory Club and praised the Leakey Foundation for sponsoring this outreach program.

Keen students: this was by far the largest turnout witnessed in recent past

The second speaker, Dr. Alfreda Ibui also stood to the podium to present a very inspiring topic on ‘Environments and Humankind'. In her well illustrated power point presentation, Dr Ibui discussed the role of the environments towards evolution including the present and past importance of forests as a source of food, medicine, shelter/protection, beauty etc to the human ancestors. Other scenarios that shaped the direction of humans’ evolution included droughts, earthquakes and volcanoes were also looked into. Lastly she highlighted the evidences of early mans’ use of plants parts for food, medicine, shelter etc.

Dr. Manthi on one on one with the students: the outreach was a total success

Students and their teachers asked questions regarding humans’ origins and evolution. Dr. Manthi clarified on the minimum requirements one requires to undertake courses on Earth Sciences including paleontology, archaeology and geology. As usual the participants were urged to plant a minimum of one tree each as a way of reducing the effects of pollution and to live in harmony with one another as members of the same species so as to ensure that humans as species, have a future. The teachers commended the Leakey Foundation for sponsoring this outreach program which is helping them to answer most of the challenging questions they face daily in their line of duty while teaching prehistory.

Schools presented included Mt. Elgon Girls High School,Manor House High School, Green Fields Girls School,Weaver Bird High School,St. Joseph Girls High School, Masaba Friends Secondary School,St. Johns Sirende Secondary School;Crane’s Academy,Mt. Emoru Secondary School and St. Columba’s Secondary School. Accompanying Dr. Manthi were Senior Research Scientist in the Department of Earth Sciences, paleontology section Dr. Alfreda Ibui and Mr. Francis Ndiritu, Operations and Public affairs, Prehistory Club of Kenya who was in charge of photography and other logistics

We thank the Leakey Foundation for ably sponsoring this Outreach Program.

A Glimpse into Africa and World Prehistory: Naivasha Outreach

2009-09-16T23:46:00.000-07:00

Lawrence Nzuve

The party of the Prehistory Club train to Naivasha was one of immense success in recent times. The turnout was enormous with more than one thousand students and teachers from several neighboring schools converging at Naivasha Mixed Secondary School for the long awaited lecture that was ably given by Dr. Fredrick Manthi, EBS, Senior Research Scientist, National Museums of

Kenya

, Earth Sciences Department, Paleontology Section and Post-doctoral Fellow, Stony Brook University, New York.. Mrs. Wanyoike, a teacher from Naivasha Mixed Secondary School who also mobilized the students to the function, introduced the visitors who also included Mrs Grace Kyalo; Coordinator Prehistory Club of Kenya who was in charge of organizing the activities of the day and Mr. Francis Ndiritu; Operations and Public Affairs, Prehistory Club of Kenya who was in charge of photography and other logistics. Other schools attending were Naivasha Girls Secondary School, Naivasha Day Secondary School and Mirela Secondary School

Teachers and students from participating schools in the lecture hall; Many History and Biology teachers also benefited from the lecture

In his highly captivating lecture, Dr. Manthi explained the issues of humans origins and evolution with emphasis being on the major characteristics that defined the differences and similarities among the major species in the genus Australopithecus, Paranthropus and Homo. The role of ‘Adaptation for existence’ or ‘descent with modification’ the key factor that led to evolution was discussed as defined by Sir Charles Darwin. The ‘use and disuse’ of special body parts put across by Lamarck was also discussed. Hominid cast of Homo erectus was displayed for practical sessions. In his power point presentation, Dr. Manthi compared different early humans ancestors in a sequential order highlighting on their characteristics. He stressed the fact that all humans are one despite their affiliations in skin colour, tribe, political boundaries, religion etc. This was very crucial especially in this region of Naivasha where the effects of after poll skirmishes were severe. The killings and destruction was done on ethnic bases.He also looked into non-hominoid paleofauna and paleoflora represented at the National Museums.

Keen students follow the proceedings: the lecture was indeed an eye opener

The questions and answer section served to clear the remaining doubts, suspicions and worries among the students and teachers concerning prehistory especially the topic of human origins and evolution. Dr. Manthi highlighted on the minimum requirements one requires to undertake courses on Earth Sciences including paleontology, archaeology and geology at the university. The students were so blissful and some promised to undertake courses in prehistory at the university level. The teachers commended the Leakey Foundation for sponsoring this outreach program which is helping them to answer most of the challenging questions from the students. The day was not complete without a poem by a student from Naivasha Mixed Secondary School, warning the participants of the threats of HIV virus and AIDS pandemic. He recited the poem in a very humorous but emotional way and at the end everybody had a point to ponder about this menace

We sincerely thank The Leakey Foundation for funding this outreach program.

NAKURU OUTREACH PROGRAM

2009-06-10T02:49:00.000-07:00

The Prehistory Club of Kenya officials traveled to Nakuru on the 15^th May, 2009 to give lectures on Prehistory. We gathered at the Nairobi Museum's parking lot at around 7a.m ready for the three hours drive to the lakeside. The morning was chilly and we managed to leave by 7.30 a.m. We arrived in Nakuru at around 10:35a.m and headed straight to Nakuru Boys High School where the lectures were scheduled to be held. After consultations with the school’s management we headed to their multipurpose hall where the event was to be held. We began setting up the equipments ready for the lecture since it was by PowerPoint presentation. The students and teachers gathered in the hall as we were setting the equipments eagerly waiting for the speaker of the day. The opening remarks were done by the curator Hyrax Hill Museum Mr. Richard Yego who welcomed all the participants and introduced the outreach team. He also emphasized on the importance of prehistory programs to schools and encouraged the schools to visit the Hyrax hill Museum regularly. After the introduction session, Mr. Yego a man of few words welcomed the speaker of the day, Dr. Fredrick Kyalo Manthi. The speaker took to the podium at exactly 11.00a.m and delivered his lecture entitled ‘A Glimpse into African and World Prehistory. In his power point presentation, Dr. Manthi compared different early human ancestors in a chronological order emphasizing on their characteristics and differences. His discussion centered mostly on human origins and evolution, highlighting on the major characteristics that defined the differences and similarities among the genus Homo. He discussed adaptation as a very key aspect in evolution. Lamarck’s theory about the use and disuse of any organ was also part of the discussion. A hominid cast of Homo erectus was displayed throughout the lecture for practical sessions. He also looked into non-hominoid paleo fauna and paleo flora housed at the National Museums’ including the extinct long-nosed crocodiles, dinosaur, four-tusked elephants, extinct tortoises, insect fossils, lizards, plant fossil remains. Dating methods for the fossils was another key area of discussion in the lecture.

The question and answers session was next and it served to clear any doubts, suspicions and worries among the students and teachers concerning prehistory especially the topic of human origins and evolution. The students were very interested in the lecture and this was evident on the question and answers bit as they sought clarification on the subjects they should pursue for them to land careers in Palaeontology, Archaeology and geology. Dr. Manthi clarified to them the required subjects to be able to undertake courses on Earth Sciences. At the end of the session, the speaker welcomed a commend from one of the teachers and one student representative.

The teacher commended Dr. Manthi for the informative lecture and the Leakey Foundation for sponsoring this outreach program. The student’s representative said the lecture was very helpful in their biology and history syllabus. Dr. Manthi concluded his lecture by acknowledging the Leakey Foundation for sponsoring this outreach program to schools.

Burial mounds; facts or fiction?

2009-05-27T07:34:00.000-07:00

Lawrence Nzuve

Visitors to Koobi Fora; one of the sites under the brief of the National Museums of Kenya are assailed by a spectacular site.Except for the phobia that the local communities associate with many things no longer living, here lies a wonder. These are the huge burial mounds whose age has been the subject of debate for a long time. What however is not in contention is the sheer size and the materials used to cover the 'graves'. As part of appreciating history and the uniqueness of our country's Paleontological heritage, i will begin serializing this story and much more as

together we take this long road unto our past....this is what is Prehistory

A section of the road just before Sibiloi National Park; this area is dotted with many of these burial mounds stretching from small ones to giant hills (photo courtesy of Koobi Fora Research Project)

Watch this space!

Outreach and Excursion Images

2009-05-06T23:07:00.000-07:00

Students discuss an issue in one of the Prehistory Outreach Program. Outreach programs form the major activity of the Prehistory club.

Students striding back to their buses after a days' long excursion to Lukenya Site

Students explore a cave at the Lukenya Prehitoric Site. Excursion is one of the key activities of the Prehistory Club. Below are educators of prehistory from Kenyas' Secondary Schools and Museums following a discussion at the Kenya Institute of Education (KIE) during a prehistory workshop organized by the Prehistory Club of Kenya. This workshop attracted more than one hundred participants from around the Country.

Outreach Program to Schools and Colleges

2009-03-23T23:36:00.000-07:00

The Outreach Program was designed to educate students and teachers on various aspects of evolutionary science. It was further to supplement the scanty evolutionary information published in Biology and History syllabi in secondary schools. Both the students and teachers tap on immense wealth of our experienced speakers drawn from Palaeontology and Archaeology.

The main aim of the outreach program is :-

To create awareness to Kenyans and particularly our youths in secondary schools regarding our immense prehistoric heritage and research.

To supplement the efforts of teachers in teaching evolution both in history and biology thus updating the learners and teachers on the recent findings in research.
To spread the word to the students about Africa as the cradle of human kind.

About the Prehistory Club

2009-03-13T00:20:00.000-07:00

The Prehistory Club of Kenya was founded in the year 2000 with the main aim of sensitizing Kenyans on matters of Paleontology, Archaeology and Geology. It is a brainchild of Dr. Fredrick Kyalo Manthi, EBS a Kenyan prehistory enthusiast and currently a Senior Research Scientist in Palaeontology at the National Museums of Kenya. The Club operates under the auspices of the National Museums of Kenya Palaeontology Section.

The motivation behind the establishment of the Prehistory Club was embedded in a number of facts about

Kenya

and Africa as a whole and among others, these facts include:-
-Africa and particularly

Kenya

is a treasure trove of human heritage
-Few Kenyans are aware of the Country’s unique prehistoric remains.

Since its inception, the Club has organized many public lectures for high school and university students in different parts of the country. Besides lectures, the Club has organized excursions to prehistoric sites such as Olorgesailie, Kariandusi, Hyrax Hill, Kajiado and Lukenya. These excursions have availed the students an opportunity to inquire more about prehistory.

Human Origins Workshop for Kenyan Educators

Although prehistory and evolutionary studies are included in the Kenyan secondary school Biology and History subjects, lack of consistent up-dating of the syllabi and sheerignorance by a very large cross-section of teachers has led to paucity of enthusiasm among students towards these subjects. Further, the educators do not have access to up-to-date information emanating from the recent prehistory research. The net effect of this is lack of knowledge and appreciation of prehistory particularly among the youth.To counter this situation, the Prehistory Club of Kenya hosted a three-day workshop to help reverse the trend and infuse the emerging ideas in the field to the Kenyan educators. This very successful

Workshop preparations

The preparations for the workshop included sending out invitations to History and Biology high school teachers, education officers from Kenyan regional Museums and other stakeholders in the Kenyan education sector who included Kenyan curriculum developers and officials from the Ministry of Education. This was followed by further invitations to educators from a number of African countries including South Africa, Tanzania and Uganda, as well as Kenyan, and foreign researchers from the USA and Germany in the area of prehistory. Several representatives from the above mentioned groups were requested to prepare presentations on prehistory, with the teachers focusing largely on the challenges they and their students face when teaching prehistory. As with all workshops, other preparations included compiling a program for the workshop, making travel and accommodation arrangements for all participants, and ensuring that the venue for the workshop has been obtained and spruced.

As intended, the workshop served as an eye opener and learning platform for the Kenyan teachers and the curriculum developers. To the latter, it also provided a basis on which to challenge/censure the publishers who have frequently presented wrong information on prehistory and human evolution. By and large, it is believed that the teachers will replicate the knowledge they gathered to their students and other interested persons, thus helping to reverse the current situation whereby very few Kenyans are aware and appreciate the Country’s unique prehistoric material. As a result of the workshop, it is believed that more young people will be encouraged to pursue careers in prehistory related disciplines.