Hussein hails from the camel herding Gabbra pastoralist people of northern Kenya where he grew up herding his family livestock in the semi-arid landscape that he deeply loves. He has vast knowledge and experience with the Issues of the region, with special interest in the preservation and promotion of indigenous knowledge, cultural heritage, biological diversity and sustainable livelihoods. 

His PhD research at the University of Oxford, UK examined the symbiotic relationship and inter-specific communication between the Greater Honey Guide, indicator indicator (a bird) and honey hunters (human) where the two species collaborate to find wild bees nests (with the help of the bird) and access honey, bee larvae and beeswax (with the help of man).

Hussein has served as the head of departments of Ornithology and of cultural heritage (respectively) at the National Museums of Kenya; lecturer, Department of Wildlife Management, Moi University, Eldoret, a Kenya-in-region consultant for the Christensen Fund, member of the Board of the Ewaso Nyiro North Development Authority and of Gotu Primary School. He is currently a member of the Guiding Committee of the Pawanka Fund and of the Isiolo Community Development Trust (ICDT).

He has a long experience in field research on indigenous ecological knowledge, heritage management and offers practical support to minority communities of Kenya in their endeavor to maintain their living traditions and environmental relationships. 

Presently, Hussein is the Executive Director of Kivulini Trust and dedicates his energies to working with children and youth in order to enhance inter-generational transmission of mother-tongue, Indigenous Knowledge, skills and practices, traditional values and cultural identity to the younger generation and to promote peace, care for the environment and positive social-economic transformation and prosperity in the region.

He lives in the rural village of Gotu in Isiolo Countyn where he works as a researcher, mentor and elder.