Enarau Conservancy is one of the newest conservancies in the Greater Maasai Mara ecosystem, established in 2022. Spanning 1,136 hectares, it sits within the Northern Mara Conservancies and forms a crucial wildlife corridor that connects with the Mbokoshi Conservation Area. The conservancy serves not only as a sanctuary for wildlife but also as a model of community-based conservation, where local Maasai communities are engaged in preservation efforts.
Location and Geography
Enarau Conservancy is characterized by a mixture of grasslands, forests, and marshlands, with a permanent spring providing water year-round. This diverse habitat attracts a variety of species, including birds, butterflies, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals. The conservancy also plays a critical role in protecting a wildlife corridor essential for the movement of species across the Mara ecosystem.
Conservation Efforts and Initiatives
The primary mission of Enarau Conservancy is the restoration and conservation of degraded ecosystems, while still allowing for sustainable community use. Historically, the land was heavily used for livestock grazing and other local community needs such as firewood collection and farming. Today, these activities are regulated to ensure the long-term preservation of the area:
- Grazing Plans: Managed grazing has been introduced to reduce overgrazing, enabling habitat restoration without compromising the livelihoods of local Maasai communities.
- Restoration Projects: The conservancy has allocated key areas for scientific research and restoration efforts.
- Technology for Conservation: The conservancy uses modern technology to monitor the health and dynamics of its ecosystems, ensuring data-driven conservation efforts.
Percentages of Native and Invasive Herbaceous Plant Species at Enarau Conservancy
A baseline study was carried out on the vegetation within a 336-acre portion of abandoned farmland in the Enarau Conservancy, which had been under intensive agriculture for over 30 years. This investigation yielded valuable insights into the distribution of native and invasive plant species.
Out of the 43 herbaceous species identified, 23 (53%) were native, while 20 (47%) were categorized as invasive.
Data Chart
| Type | Percentage | Species Count |
|---|---|---|
| Native Species | 53% | 23 |
| Invasive Species | 47% | 20 |
Analysis
This data highlights the importance of ongoing conservation efforts to restore native plant species in previously cultivated areas. The balance between native and invasive species shows that nearly half of the species in the farmland are invasive, which poses challenges to habitat restoration and biodiversity conservation at Enarau.
Community Involvement
One of the core values of Enarau Conservancy is community empowerment. The local Maasai are deeply involved in the management and operations of the conservancy, ensuring that the economic and social benefits of conservation are shared among the community. Projects are designed to celebrate and protect the cultural heritage of the Maasai people, while also promoting sustainable livelihoods.
Strategic Pillars
- Research: The conservancy emphasizes enhancing knowledge about ecosystem restoration and applying scientific research to improve conservation outcomes.
- Restoration and Conservation: The focus is on restoring degraded lands and protecting healthy ecosystems.
- Technology: Cutting-edge technology is used to monitor wildlife and the environment, ensuring conservation strategies are adaptive and effective.
- Community Wellbeing: The conservancy seeks to create opportunities for local residents to actively participate in conservation projects.
Wildlife and Habitat
Enarau Conservancy is home to a range of wildlife species, benefiting from its diverse habitats, including grasslands and marshlands. Key species observed include a variety of birdlife, butterflies, small and large mammals such as elephants, lions, and giraffes, among others. The proximity to the Mbokoshi Conservation Area enhances its significance as a wildlife corridor.
Restoration Projects
The conservancy is actively involved in ecosystem restoration, reversing the effects of years of overgrazing and land degradation. Key restoration projects include the reintroduction of native plant species and habitat rehabilitation.
Vision and Mission
The conservancy’s vision is to create a future where wildlife and communities coexist in harmony. Enarau aims to be a beacon of successful conservation by not only protecting biodiversity but also ensuring the welfare of the local Maasai communities.
Their mission is centered around protecting and restoring critical habitats, supported by a foundation of data-driven decision-making and innovative approaches to conservation.
Future Plans
Enarau Conservancy plans to expand protected areas in the Greater Mara ecosystem, with an ambitious goal of adding 10,000 hectares of protected land. This will further enhance wildlife corridors and provide additional space for both wildlife and community activities.
Contact Information
Location: Northern Mara Conservancies, Maasai Mara, Kenya
Email: info@enarautrust.org
Phone: +254707224833
Enarau Conservancy is a shining example of how community-based conservation can restore ecosystems while simultaneously benefiting local communities, making it a unique and valuable addition to the Maasai Mara’s network of conservancies.