Richard Turere: My invention that made peace with lions

The Conflict: Humans and Lions00:00:12

Living on the edge of Nairobi National Park, Richard's community faces constant threats from lions that hunt their livestock. This conflict leads to the retaliatory killing of lions, causing tension and a decline in the predator population.

Searching for a Solution00:01:50

Richard experimented with several methods to deter lions, including fire and scarecrows, but found that predators quickly learned these tactics were non-threatening. He eventually observed that lions fear moving lights, sparking the idea for his invention.

The Lion Lights Invention00:03:12

Using a solar panel, a battery, and a motorcycle indicator box, Richard created a sequence of flashing LED lights. These lights mimic the appearance of a person walking around the cowshed, successfully tricking and scaring away the lions.

Community Impact and Future Dreams00:04:17

The invention effectively ended the livestock attacks in his home and spread to neighboring farms. This success earned Richard a scholarship to a prestigious school and inspired him to pursue his dream of becoming an aircraft engineer and pilot.