AWF Partners with Taita Wildlife Conservancy to Enhance Ranger Housing
Rangers serving within Taita Wildlife Conservancy in Tsavo, Kenya can now enjoy improved living conditions, thanks to a recent intervention by the African Wildlife Foundation (AWF).
Nestled deep within the heart of Taita Wildlife Conservancy, the reinvigorated Twiga Security Camp stands as a symbol of resilience and cooperation in the face of adversity. Home to majestic elephants and giraffes, the conservancy is a vital wildlife migratory corridor between Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks.
Covering an expansive area of 96,000 acres, the conservancy is in Voi, Taita Taveta County, Kenya. It borders Tsavo East to the North and Tsavo West and Mkomazi to the South.
During the inauguration of the new quarters, Mohanjeet Brar, AWF Kenya Board Treasurer, expressed gratitude to the rangers for their dedication to safeguarding Kenya's heritage.
“It is an honorable day for our heroes and, by extension AWF as we open these doors to these deserving men and women who have selflessly dedicated themselves to safeguarding Kenya’s heritage. A vocation not many adhere to but one that many admire, and I am proud to be associated with such bravery and dedication.”
He highlighted the importance of their noble task and underscored AWF's commitment to supporting their efforts.
He added, “I speak on behalf of my colleagues as we commission you to go forth in renewed spirit in your new quarters. We look forward to witnessing your remarkable strides and are cheering you on.”
In the past, poaching posed a significant threat to the harmony of nature within the Taita/Taru conservancy borders, endangering iconic species like giraffes. Recognizing the urgency, Taita Wildlife Conservancy (TWC) and AWF united forces to combat the poaching threat.
The creation of Twiga Security Camp was essential in fortifying efforts against poaching. Named after the Swahili word for giraffe, the camp has become a stronghold against illegal wildlife activities despite construction delays caused by heavy rainfall.
Retrofitted with a reliable solar power system, Twiga Security Camp ensures uninterrupted electricity, enhancing the living conditions of the rangers and enabling them to carry out their duties effectively. This addition not only improves the functionality of the camp but also emphasizes AWF's commitment to sustainable conservation practices.
Mr. Everest Lenjo, Chairperson of Taita Wildlife Conservancy, commended AWF for their invaluable partnership in re-establishing Twiga Security Camp. He encouraged the rangers to continue their honorable task of preserving natural heritage for future generations.
“To our guardians of the wild, your honorable task is paramount in preserving our natural heritage. Your commitment and bravery inspire us all. Keep up the noble work, for the future of our wildlife depends on it.”
Nathan Gichohi, AWF Senior Landscape Ecologist for the Tsavo-Mkomazi landscape, highlighted plans to enhance the camp further. These include constructing a separate kitchen and installing an underground water storage tank for rainwater harvesting, ensuring a sustainable water supply for the camp's needs.
Additionally, AWF empowers rangers and scouts within the Taita Wildlife Conservancy through comprehensive training in surveillance, tracking, and wilderness survival. This ensures that these dedicated officers are equipped with the essential skills needed to safeguard endangered wildlife from poachers, fortifying their efforts in conservation.