Participants after the China-Africa Biodiversity Conservation Exchange and Training Course at the Maasai Mara Game Reserve in Narok County. [Courtesy]
The China-Africa Biodiversity Conservation Exchange and Training Course, together with the “Eagle City” Global Exhibition, was recently held at the Maasai Mara Game Reserve, bringing together conservation experts and stakeholders from across Africa and China.
During an experience-sharing session, African conservation experts presented case studies highlighting community-based conservation initiatives and the use of technology to strengthen wildlife and environmental protection. The discussions also provided an opportunity to compare conservation approaches and experiences from different countries.
Representatives from ecological authorities, protected-area management agencies, non-profit organisations and universities in China, Kenya and Tanzania participated in in-depth discussions on community-based conservation, technology-enabled wildlife protection and youth education on environmental conservation.
Eston Murithi, Chairman of the Adept Conservation Network, said his organisation works to protect forests, rivers and wetland ecosystems by harnessing the strengths and knowledge of local communities.
He said involving communities in conservation efforts was essential to ensuring that natural resources and ecosystems are protected and preserved for future generations.
“Through skills training, community patrols, seedling cultivation, ecological restoration and science outreach, the project mitigates human-wildlife conflict and fosters harmonious coexistence between people and wildlife,” said Murithi.
Zakayo Kipuyo, Founder of the Joy and Hope for Rural Community Foundation, shared conservation practices from Arusha, Tanzania where under community stewardship, the organisation advances forest restoration.