The reason for the increased poaching is that the criminals have become more skilled and their methods more refined. Stopping them requires even smarter solutions and modern technology.

But a major challenge in implementing this technology in difficult terrain is the lack of well-functioning electricity networks and power sources. Every new solution must therefore be energy efficient. With advanced sensor technology, we continuously research how the system can be expanded with intelligent cameras, radar systems, cameras, thermal cameras, drones, microphones and shot detectors. With our aids, the park rangers will become the savannah’s super eyes and super ears.

Here are some examples of the innovations currently in use.

Virtual watchtower

A digital watchtower that allows park rangers to monitor the area remotely and automatically receive notifications if something unusual happens.

Intelligent tags

A patented tag that is mounted on the animal and provides information about its well-being. The tag acts as a smartwatch and registers ongoing activity. Like a smartwatch, it synchronizes data to the cloud via Bluetooth to a phone. This can be done via our app in the guards' phone, or more easily via scanners at the water holes.

Intelligent camera traps

Our self-developed camera traps have a microprocessor with AI for automatic detection and classification of humans and the largest savannah animals. In this way, much fewer images are sent to the server, and we can use alternative communication solutions where mobile coverage is lacking.

Shot detection

An array of microphones we have developed detects shots and can determine the direction of the shooter's position.

Environmental monitoring

Our sensor nodes can be equipped with all kinds of sensors to measure environmental parameters in air, soil and water.

Robust field station

Our field station functions as a base station for various communication methods and complements mobile broadband in the areas where mobile coverage is poor.
Education Mac Kenya

Education that protects animals

Poaching and lack of education are linked. Therefore, we must improve living conditions and create opportunities for local people in the surrounding areas around the parks. One way out of poverty is quality education that has long-term effects. Partly for the individual, but also for the whole society.

Income-generating activities are also required. We will create courses in entrepreneurship that are offered to the local communities. Participants will learn practical business skills that provide income to individuals and support families.

Our long-term goal is to create a digital high school and education online. These are educations that all Kenyans can complete, but the surrounding communities are a priority. Therefore, it is extra important that we receive support and invest in infrastructure such as mobile devices (eg tablets) and the internet.

Help preserve diversity

Visit us

Linköpings universitet
581 83 Linköping

Contact us

info@smartsavannahs.org