Some of the Homo erectus footprints in Ileret, in Marsabit County. [Nanjinia Wamuswa, Standard]
She explains that while exploring the geology of the area, the team came across a fossil bone, which later turned out to be a human fossil-specifically, a hardened bone.
"This discovery prompted further surveys to better understand the time period and environment in which this early human lived," she says.
Geologists were brought in to study the stratigraphy and dating of the area when they noticed ground depressions that turned out to be footprints made by early humans as well as various animals.
At this point, she says, the research team resolved to conserve the footprints in 2014, with plans to make them accessible to the public in the future. Unfortunately, sediment erosion at the site continued to pose a threat.
In 2022, supported by the British Council and the Cultural Protection Fund, the museum launched the Ileret Footprint Project, a major conservation initiative to counter climate-related threats such as heavy rains and wind erosion that stripped away sediments.
"We also had to address threats from human activities. The local Daasanach community is largely pastoralist, and livestock movements, as well as the harvesting of vegetation and rocks from the site, posed significant risks," Dr. Kiura says.
Some of the fossils found by researchers, dating back 1.5 years ago in Ileret, Marsabit County. [Nanjinia Wamuswa, Standard]
She reveals they are finalizing the entry charges, likely to mirror those of other prehistoric sites in Kenya-about Sh400 for Kenyan citizens and around Sh1,200 for international visitors. Local residents will have a different, more affordable rate, to be determined in consultation with the county government.
Before the discovery, locals were unaware that anything of significance existed in the area.
Jane Jilo Katelo, Deputy Director of Tourism in Marsabit County, says they began by engaging the community in a participatory process.
"We explained the importance of the Ileret footprint site, and the community was receptive. They recognised the value of the site and agreed to provide the land where the footprints are located," she says.
Iyayo Siroro, a local, reflects on the transformation brought by the discovery: "We didn't know there was anything valuable here. After getting involved, we've learned that this is the origin of humanity. We value this place."
Arweya Lotiele shares his excitement about the economic benefits. "It's a miracle that we're earning money from this place. I've been working here, building gabions and assisting with other tasks, and I get paid for it. It's a great opportunity for us," he says.
Joseph Mirgichan, Director of Culture for Marsabit County, says the Ileret footprints-alongside discoveries like the Turkana Boy-confirm that Kenya, and especially Marsabit, is truly the birthplace of humanity.
He is optimistic that the Ileret footprints are poised to become a major tourist attraction.
"Ileret contributes critically to our understanding of early human anatomy, adaptive strategies, and technological innovation. It strengthens Kenya's role as a central cradle of human evolution and a landmark in the story of human origins," he says.
Some of the community activities planned for visitors at the site include tree planting, sand volleyball, sand football, a camel derby, a boat race, and a medical camp.
The main challenge is the site's remote location. Although road access has improved, the area remains quite distant, and there is no consistent transport service to ensure regular access to the Ileret footprint site.