About TECDI: Cultivating Hope in Tsavo East

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Founder & Chairman


Simon N. Musila (PhD)

The vision for TECDI began with Simon… coordinates supporter relations, secures funding, oversees beneficiary recruitment and project supervision, manages communications, and prepares annual reports. He collaborates closely with the local TECDI officers.

All TECDI personnel work voluntarily. Dr. Musila is currently a mammal research scientist at the National Museums of Kenya (NMK).

International Fundraising Patrons

Philipp Leonhartsberger (Austria/Tanzania)

Philipp, Simon’s roommate during the TBA course, shared experiences… provided crucial feedback… strong supporter since 2005… visited Kasaala multiple times… Technical Advisor with HORIZONT3000 (Website).

Nick/Geert van de Wiel (Netherlands)

Nick met Simon during the 2003 TBA course. His support and belief were crucial in TECDI’s founding… Since 2005, Nick has remained a steadfast supporter… Owner/MD of Tailor Made Safaris (Website).

Key UK Partner: BASIK

TECDI collaborates closely with BASIK, a UK family charity. Through the dedicated fundraising efforts of Celia, William, and Chris Normington, BASIK has funded significant infrastructure projects, including classrooms and a science lab at James Ndonyi Memorial Secondary School.

For UK-based donations towards sponsorships and buildings via BASIK, please contact Celia Normington: [email protected].