Integrated Land Use Planning

The project strategically allocated land for agricultural and conservation purposes to balance human and wildlife needs. This comprehensive planning ensured sustainable land use that supported both community livelihoods and wildlife conservation. Farmers cultivated their lands using the skills from Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) training, resulting in improved harvests with zero threats from elephants and other wildlife, making the 10% fence plans 100% effective. The remaining 90% of the land was used as fallow for wildlife and farmers' livestock, bringing a sense of wildlife-livestock integration. All farmers received dam liners for water pans and collected water for livestock and farming. This model brought a sense of integrated land use with a win-win benefit for both wildlife and communities. Sustainable practices were promoted, and policy support was advocated to back the integrated land use plans legally and institutionally. Continuous monitoring and evaluation systems were implemented to adapt and improve the plans over time.

  • Collaborative Planning: Community members, conservationists, land use experts, and government officials were involved in the planning process to ensure all perspectives and needs were considered.
  • Sustainable Practices: Land management practices that enhanced biodiversity, soil health, and ecosystem resilience were promoted and implemented.
  • Policy Support: Policies that supported integrated land use planning were advocated, ensuring legal and institutional backing for the plans.
  • Monitoring and Evaluation: Continuous monitoring and evaluation systems were implemented to adapt and improve land use plans over time.
  • Community Engagement: Regular meetings and workshops were held to engage the community in the planning process and ensure their buy-in and cooperation.
  • Data-Driven Decision Making: GIS mapping, surveys, and historical data analysis were used to make informed decisions about land allocation and management practices.
  • Training and Capacity Building: Community members were trained in sustainable land use practices to ensure long-term adherence and success.
  • Resource Allocation: Adequate resources, including funding and technical support, were secured to facilitate the implementation and maintenance of the land use plans.
  • Water Management: Provision of dam liners for water pans ensured adequate water collection for livestock and farming, supporting sustainable agricultural practices.
  • Inclusivity: Inclusive planning processes that involve all stakeholders ensure that the needs of both people and wildlife are met, fostering coexistence and sustainability.
  • Adaptability: Continuous monitoring and adaptation are necessary to address changing environmental and community needs effectively.
  • Policy and Legal Support: Strong policy support and legal frameworks are essential for the successful implementation and sustainability of integrated land use plans.
  • Community Ownership: Engaging the community and ensuring their ownership of the planning process leads to better compliance and success.
  • Data Utilization: Accurate data collection and analysis are crucial for making informed decisions and targeting interventions effectively.
  • Sustainable Practices: Promoting and implementing sustainable land management practices enhances ecosystem resilience and supports long-term community livelihoods.
  • Capacity Building: Training and capacity building are vital for ensuring that community members can sustain and manage the land use plans independently.
  • Integrated Benefits: The integrated land use model provided a win-win benefit for both wildlife and communities, promoting coexistence and mutual support.
Community Engagement and Training on Climate-Smart Agriculture

The project trained farmers in climate-smart agriculture (CSA) and permaculture farming practices to improve yields and sustainability. This involved practical training sessions, demonstration plots, and ongoing support to help farmers adopt and sustain new practices. Training programs were developed and delivered on CSA techniques, including soil conservation, water management, and sustainable crop choices.

Farmers were trained by experts from the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), with a deep concentration on dry crop farming such as cowpeas, green grams, millet, and cassava. They were also linked to KALRO for the procurement of certified seeds for planting. The training was conducted before the onset of the long rains season, allowing farmers to apply the skills garnered just in time for planting before the rains started. County Agriculture officers attended the sessions to drum up support from the government.

Demonstration farms were established within the community to showcase best practices and allow farmers to see the benefits firsthand. Support networks and farmer groups were created for sharing knowledge, resources, and experiences, fostering peer learning and support. Necessary resources such as seeds, tools, and organic fertilizers were provided to help farmers implement new techniques.

  • Training Programs: Comprehensive training programs on climate-smart techniques were developed and delivered. These programs included soil conservation, water management, and sustainable crop choices. Practical sessions and workshops were conducted to ensure farmers understood and could apply these techniques effectively.
  • Expert Training: Farmers were trained by experts from KALRO, focusing on dry crop farming such as cowpeas, green grams, millet, and cassava. This specialized training ensured that farmers had the knowledge to successfully grow crops suited to their environment.
  • Certified Seed Procurement: Farmers were linked to KALRO for the procurement of certified seeds, ensuring access to high-quality planting materials.
  • Seasonal Timing: The training was conducted before the onset of the long rains season, allowing farmers to apply their new skills in a timely manner for planting.
  • Government Support: County Agriculture officers attended the training sessions, providing government support and increasing the program's credibility and reach.
  • Demonstration Farms: Demonstration farms were established within the community to showcase best practices. These farms allowed farmers to see the benefits of climate-smart agriculture firsthand, enhancing their understanding and encouraging adoption of new practices.
  • Support Networks: Networks and farmer groups were created for sharing knowledge, resources, and experiences. These networks fostered peer learning and support, providing a platform for farmers to discuss challenges, share solutions, and learn from each other’s experiences.
  • Monitoring and Evaluation: Tsavo Trust and KALRO developed and implemented systems to monitor the progress of farmers adopting climate-smart practices. Regular evaluations were conducted to assess the effectiveness of the training programs and make necessary adjustments.
  • Partnerships: Partnerships with local communities and government agencies provide additional support and resources. These partnerships enhanced the reach and impact of the training programs.
  • Hands-on training and demonstration farms enhanced learning and adoption of new practices. Practical experience and seeing the benefits firsthand were crucial for encouraging farmers to adopt climate-smart techniques.
  • Ongoing support and mentorship were important for sustained agricultural improvement and innovation. Continuous engagement and guidance helped farmers overcome challenges and maintain their commitment to new practices.
  • Peer networks and community groups enhanced the sharing of knowledge and resources, improving overall adoption rates. Collaborative learning and support among farmers fostered a community-wide shift towards climate-smart agriculture.
  • Access to necessary resources was crucial for the successful implementation of new techniques. Providing seeds, tools, and organic fertilizers ensured that farmers could effectively adopt and sustain climate-smart practices.
  • Involving agricultural experts ensured that the training programs were based on the latest research and best practices. Their expertise added credibility and depth to the training, enhancing its effectiveness.
  • Regular monitoring and evaluation allowed for continuous improvement of the training programs. Feedback from farmers and ongoing assessments helped refine the approach and address any issues promptly.
  • Building partnerships with local communities and government agencies provided additional support and resources. These partnerships enhanced the training programs' reach and impact, ensuring more farmers could benefit from climate-smart agriculture.
Construction of Electrified Porcupine Fences

Electrified "porcupine fences" were installed around 10% of each of the three land plots identified to protect households, crops and property from wildlife. These fences were designed to prevent large wildlife, particularly elephants, from entering 10% protected areas, thereby reducing human-wildlife conflict. Construction began in March 2023, with three plots (totaling 10 acres) being constructed. The fence construction was completed by mid-April 2023, securing over 20 people in the three households. During construction, all casual workers were youths from the Kamungi Conservancy Community, providing an indirect benefit of income and honing skills in fence construction and maintenance. This ensured that knowledge was retained within Kamungi for future maintenance. Skilled technicians oversaw the construction and maintenance of the fences, ensuring they were built to withstand wildlife pressures. Community members were actively involved in the construction process to reduce costs and foster a sense of ownership.

  • Technical Expertise: Skilled technicians were employed for the construction and maintenance of the fences, ensuring they were robust enough to withstand wildlife pressures. This expertise was crucial for the successful installation and functionality of the electrified fences.
  • Material Procurement: Reliable supply chains were established for high-quality fencing materials, including solar panels, batteries, energizers and electrified wire. Ensuring the availability of these materials was essential for constructing durable and effective fences.
  • Funding and Resources: Funding from BIOPAMA was secured to cover the costs of construction and maintenance. This financial support was vital for the successful implementation and sustainability of the project.
  • Community Labor: Community members, particularly youths from Kamungi, were involved in the construction process, which reduced costs and fostered a sense of ownership and responsibility for the fences. This involvement was critical for the project's success, as it built local capacity and commitment to maintaining the fences.
  • Training Programs: Local technicians and community members received training in fence construction and maintenance, ensuring that the knowledge and skills required to sustain the project were available within the community.
  • Regular Maintenance: Regular maintenance schedules were established to ensure the fences remained in good working condition even after completion. This included routine checks and repairs to address any damage or wear and tear.
  • Youth Engagement: Engaging youths from the Kamungi community in the construction process not only provided them with income but also equipped them with valuable skills in fence construction and maintenance. This ensured that the knowledge and expertise needed for future maintenance were retained within the community.
  • Proper maintenance of fences was essential for their long-term effectiveness; regular checks and repairs were necessary to ensure they functioned as intended.
  • Community involvement in fence construction fostered ownership and responsibility, leading to better maintenance and compliance with project goals.
  • Training local technicians and community members in fence maintenance ensured sustainability and quick response to any issues, reducing downtime and enhancing the project's effectiveness.
  • Reliable supply chains for high-quality materials were crucial for constructing durable and effective fences that could withstand wildlife pressures.
  • Regular communication and transparency with the community and stakeholders built trust and support, ensuring the project’s success and sustainability.
  • A community-based monitoring system helped in promptly identifying and addressing any issues with the fences, ensuring they remained effective in reducing human-wildlife conflict.
  • Involving the community in the construction process reduced costs and built local capacity, ensuring the project's long-term sustainability.
  • Youth engagement not only provided income opportunities but also equipped them with valuable skills, ensuring future maintenance and fostering community resilience.
Mapping, Needs Assessment, and Data Collection

Thorough assessments were conducted to identify human-wildlife conflict (HWC) hotspots and ensure the project addressed the most critical areas. This involved gathering quantitative and qualitative data to make informed decisions about fence placement and other interventions. GIS mapping, surveys, and interviews were utilized to understand current land use patterns, wildlife corridors, and areas experiencing frequent HWC. Surveys were also conducted with households to establish threats, crop and property destruction, and the amount of harvest farmers were getting. The results of the needs assessment were submitted to the Kamungi Board, who used this information to select three final beneficiaries of the 10% Fence Plan. Their decision was then passed through a public participation community meeting, where members present endorsed the identified beneficiaries.

  • GIS Mapping: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) were employed to map current land use patterns, wildlife corridors, and areas experiencing frequent HWC. This technology provided detailed spatial data that was crucial for planning and implementing the 10% Fence Plan effectively.
  • Surveys and Interviews: Structured surveys and interviews with community members were conducted to gather data on HWC incidents, economic losses, community needs, and the amount of harvest farmers were getting. This approach ensured that the project was grounded in the actual experiences and requirements of the affected communities.
  • Historical Data Analysis: Historical data on HWC incidents were reviewed to identify trends and predict future conflict zones. This analysis helped in understanding long-term patterns and preparing proactive measures.
  • Community Involvement: Local community members were involved in data collection processes, which helped in building trust and ensuring that the data gathered was comprehensive and accurate.
  • Technology Integration: Advanced data collection tools and software (kobotool box) were utilized to streamline the data gathering and analysis processes, improving efficiency and accuracy.
  • Board Engagement: The Kamungi Board reviewed the needs assessment results and selected three final beneficiaries of the 10% Fence Plan. This ensured that decisions were made by trusted local authorities.
  • Public Participation: The selection of beneficiaries was endorsed through a community meeting, ensuring transparency and community buy-in.
  • Accurate data collection and mapping were crucial for targeting interventions effectively.
  • Community input provided valuable insights into local challenges and needs, ensuring that the project was responsive and relevant.
  • Involving local community members in data collection fostered ownership and increased the accuracy of the information gathered.
  • Utilizing technology improved the efficiency and accuracy of data collection and analysis processes.
  • Regular updates to mapping and data collection ensured that interventions could adapt to changing conditions, maintaining their relevance and impact.
  • Historical data analysis provided important context and helped in predicting future conflict zones, enabling proactive planning.
  • Effective communication of data and findings to the community and stakeholders built trust and facilitated better decision-making.
  • Continuous learning and adaptation based on data analysis allowed for ongoing improvement of intervention strategies.
  • Engagement of the Kamungi Board in the beneficiary selection process ensured that decisions were made by trusted local authorities.
  • Public participation in endorsing the beneficiaries built community trust and support for the project.
Community Public Participation and Sensitization

Engaging and educating community members to ensure they understood the project, its benefits, and actively supported its implementation. This involved clear communication of project goals, addressing concerns, and fostering a sense of ownership among the community. Public participation was facilitated through monthly meetings in Kamungi Conservancy (KC) to create awareness on the benefits of the 10% Fence Plan, hazards, and overall project objectives. These meetings served as a platform for open dialogue, where community members could voice their concerns, ask questions, and provide input. Additionally, the meetings were designed to disseminate crucial information about the project, including how the fences would mitigate human-wildlife conflict, protect crops and livestock, and improve overall community safety. Educational sessions within these meetings focused on practical aspects of the 10% Fence Plan, such as maintenance and repair techniques, as well as broader conservation principles. This consistent engagement ensured that the community remained informed, involved, and supportive of the project's goals.

  • Community Meetings and Educational Workshops: Regular meetings were organized in Kamungi Conservancy to discuss the project, gather input, and build consensus. Workshops on the importance of conservation, human-wildlife conflict mitigation, and the specific benefits of the 10% Fence Plan were conducted, using visual aids and local languages to enhance understanding.
  • Stakeholder Involvement: Local leaders, traditional elders, conservation groups, and government officials were involved to endorse the project and build trust within the community.
  • Inclusive Participation: Special efforts were made to include marginalized groups such as women and youth in the meetings and decision-making processes, ensuring that the entire community's perspectives and needs were considered.
  • Feedback Mechanisms: Channels were established for community members to provide feedback and report issues related to the fences, ensuring ongoing dialogue and responsiveness to community concerns.
  • Local Champions: Local champions were identified and supported, who advocated for the project within the community, helping to sustain momentum and community engagement. The local champions incuded past beneficiaries of the 10% Fence plans.
  • Effective communication and transparency were key to gaining community trust and support.
  • Addressing community concerns promptly helped build trust and fostered a cooperative spirit.
  • Continuous engagement and feedback mechanisms helped address ongoing concerns and improve project implementation.
  • Involving local leaders and champions fostered a sense of ownership and responsibility within the community, enhancing long-term support for the project.
  • Inclusivity in participation ensured that the needs and perspectives of all community members, including marginalized groups, were addressed, leading to more comprehensive and sustainable outcomes.
  • Regular monitoring and adapting strategies based on community feedback allowed for more effective and responsive project management.
  • Empowering local champions provided ongoing advocacy and support for the project, ensuring sustainability beyond initial implementation.
  • Organizing HWC educational workshops not only increased awareness but also equipped the community with practical skills for fence maintenance and wildlife conflict mitigation.
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Structure of the surveillance network

Using SENASAG's disease surveillance system (SINAVE 2022) as a basis and considering the various actors identified by local stakeholders to form the surveillance network, the pilot model for disease surveillance with a One Health approach was designed and presented. 

Through collaborative work sessions with different local actors in both working municipalities, the local actors defined the structure of their monitoring networks, which are presented.

The stakeholders

Based on the results of workshops conducted with different stakeholders in the municipalities of RBQ and SBV, the following stakeholders were identified as potential members of the surveillance network:

  • Municipal technicians, 
  • Health establishments,
  • SENASAG RBQ and SBV technicians,
  • Protection corps of the Madidi and Pilón Lajas protected areas,
  • Indigenous organisations (CIPTA/CIMTA and CRTM),
  • Tour operators and guides
  • Local wildlife custodian centres
Continuity in cooperation
  • Our transnational cooperation was largely based on personal contacts and larger efforts were dependent on external funding. The work for the preparation of the joint management plan has allowed us to structure the transnational cooperation and formalize it. All these measures will contribute to a more sustainable and long-term cooperation that isn´t so dependent on personal connections. 
  • Now we have a better explanation of the tasks and organization of the transnational cooperation group, and we also included all municipalities in the area in the group.  
  • An expert panel will help in management questions considering protection of World Heritage values and give valuable input to both site managers and the transnational cooperation group.
  • Personnel from different levels in the management authorities in both countries will meet regularly, and this is written into the management plan.   

The transnational cooperation group agreed to meet more frequently while working on the management plan. We had many discussions and workshops about the mission and constitution of the group, and we have also discussed the transnational management with organizations not directly involved in it. Transnational cooperation has to be important for the involved organizations and there has to be a will to invest in it. 

  • This kind of work takes time. By building cooperation over time, it is possible to move on from learning from each other to solving challenges together. 
  • Cooperation can be very vulnerable if it is based on specific persons and personal connections, for example when persons in our cooperation group have changed and a new representative from the same organization did not have the chance to learn about the work from their predecessors. That´s why it is important to form routines for transferring knowledge within the involved organizations. 
  • Another challenge is to find the right level of representation, to get persons involved who have both knowledge and right to make decisions. When involving many different organizations, it isn´t always possible to reach consensus in different matters, but the strength of the cooperation is in the discussions and in asking questions.
  • Another part of the success is that all work with the management plan (except the CVI project) was done as a part of our regular work. All things learned stays in the organizations when no short-time project staff have been participating. It took a long time, but it was worth it.