Multiple supportive actors

EGI has engaged multiple and diverse actors, to support different and important aspects of the overall strategy. First, the local authorities were key as they provided access to the Protected Area to the EGI team, in times of lockdown and restricted access to transport and places. Second, the local and national medias supported the different activities, by organising talk show to share information and support education and awareness raising efforts. EGI was offered 16 opportunities, to create awareness on the relevance of promoting conservation amidst Covid-19 times in the country.  Finally, the Telecom company contributed to solving human – wildlife conflicts, establishing an environmental toll-free line, allowing communities to call EGI and the park rangers, if elephants for example come out of the park, with the risk of damaging their fields. The phone call allows for a quick response, where park rangers bring the elephants back in the Protected Area, avoiding the killing of these animals.

EGI experienced a significant increase in its visibility and the work it does, at the local and international levels, since it was granted with the IUCN Save Our Species rapid grant and listed on the website. EGI received for example, 18 interview requests from international members who wanted to understand the work, how we do and the impact Covid 19 has had on conservation as well as our response to them. This gave the organization international recognition as the information was accredited to us.

Partnerships are key with both governement and local communities in response to an emergency situation in conservation.