How Rukiya Mohamed Became Kenya’s Only Female Snake Handler

Rukiya Mohamed, who was named one of Kenya’s Top 20 Most Impactful Women in 2026, is redefining leadership in the real world.

Kiwayuu native has risen from a rigorous paramilitary background to become the only female snake handler in the Coast Conservation Area.

Rukiya’s expertise is saving human and reptilian lives in an area where conflicts between humans and wildlife frequently result in tragedy.

She is also motivating a new generation of women to fight on the front lines of nature’s most perplexing conflicts.

According to a post by the Kenya Wildlife Service on January 27, 2026, Rukiya has officially made history as the only female snake handler in Kenya’s Coast Conservation Area.

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“From the quiet shores of Kiwayuu in Lamu County to international recognition, Rukiya Mohamed’s journey is one of courage, discipline, and purpose. She dared to choose a path few women walk and conquered it,” Kenya Wildlife Service said on a post on X.

The statement adds, “Trained through a rigorous KWS paramilitary program, Rukiya broke the barriers to become the only female snake handler in Kenya’s Coast Conservation Area, redefining what leadership in conservation looks like.”

Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) paramilitary program

KWS noted that it was no coincidence that Rukiya went from being a civilian to a major force in conservation.

She participated in the demanding Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) paramilitary program, which is renowned for its intense mental and physical demands, by teaching the communities.

Rukiya focused on the misunderstood field of herpetology, while many others were experts in park management or anti-poaching.

She has rescued and safely relocated countless snakes while saving human lives.

“Where fear dominates, Rukiya leads with knowledge. She has rescued and safely relocated countless snakes, saved human and wildlife lives, educated communities, and promoted coexistence over destruction—turning panic into understanding and respect for nature,” Kenya Wildlife Service said on a post on X.

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A National Icon

Rukiya’s story reached millions of people in early 2026 thanks to Citizen TV’s Mwanamke Bomba segment, which focused on women breaking down barriers.

Her status as one of the Top 20 Most Impactful Women in Kenya (2026), acknowledged for her contribution to the advancement of human-wildlife coexistence, further cemented her influence.

“Celebrated nationally and beyond, featured on Citizen TV’s Mwanamke Bomba and named Top 20 Most Impactful Women in Kenya (2026), Rukiya now mentors other women to rise. She is not just a ranger. She is a victor over fear. Her story belongs to the world,” Kenya Wildlife Service said on a post on X.

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Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Sign in Nairobi. PHOTO/Dreamtime.