The Maasai Mara Conservancies are a network of protected areas adjacent to the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. Established to promote sustainable wildlife conservation and support local Maasai communities, these conservancies cover a vast and diverse landscape rich in biodiversity.
This guide provides an overview of each conservancy, highlighting their unique features, wildlife, activities, and contributions to conservation and community well-being. Through collaborative efforts and innovative conservation practices, the Maasai Mara Conservancies represent a model of successful community-based conservation, ensuring the protection of one of the world’s most treasured ecosystems for future generations.
What is a Maasai Mara Conservancy?
A Maasai Mara Conservancy is a designated land area managed for wildlife conservation and sustainable community benefits. These conservancies are part of a broader effort to protect the greater Maasai Mara ecosystem in Kenya. The conservancies involve partnerships between landowners, typically from the local Maasai community, and tourism operators, with the support of various conservation organizations and government bodies.
Key Aspects of Maasai Mara Conservancies:
- Land Management:
- Private Conservancy: Land owned by an individual, family, or corporate entity (e.g., Olpejeta Conservancy).
- Group Conservancy: Land collectively owned by multiple landowners who consolidate their lands to form a conservancy (e.g., Naboisho Conservancy).
- Community Conservancy: Land owned by a community, often managed collectively for the benefit of the community (common in Northern Kenya under the Northern Rangelands Trust).
- Economic Benefits:
- Lease Payments: Landowners receive payments for leasing their land for conservation purposes. This model provides a stable income to the landowners and promotes the sustainable use of land.
- Employment: Conservancies create job opportunities for local people, including roles as rangers, guides, and staff in tourism camps.
- Tourism Revenue: Income from tourism activities, such as safari tours, is reinvested into the conservancy and local community projects.
- Conservation Efforts:
- Wildlife Protection: Conservancies implement anti-poaching measures, habitat restoration, and management practices to protect wildlife.
- Biodiversity: These areas support a diverse range of species, including the ‘Big Five’ (lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos) and many other mammals, birds, and plants.
- Corridor Maintenance: Conservancies secure and maintain wildlife corridors that allow animals to migrate and access different parts of the ecosystem.
- Community Benefits:
- Education and Health: Some conservancies provide bursaries, build schools, and support health clinics for local communities.
- Grazing Rights: Controlled grazing schemes allow livestock owners to use parts of the conservancy land, balancing livestock needs with conservation goals.
- Infrastructure: Investment in local infrastructure, such as roads and water projects, improves the quality of life for local residents.
- Governance and Support:
- MMWCA: The Maasai Mara Wildlife Conservancies Association (MMWCA) coordinates and supports the conservancies, ensuring good governance, financial management, and community involvement.
- Partnerships: Collaborations with organizations like USAID, Kenya Wildlife Service, and various NGOs help to fund and implement conservation projects.
Importance of Maasai Mara Conservancies
Maasai Mara conservancies play a crucial role in:
- Protecting Wildlife: They provide safe habitats for wildlife and help reduce human-wildlife conflicts.
- Supporting Communities: They offer economic benefits and improve living standards for the Maasai people.
- Promoting Sustainable Tourism: Conservancies offer unique, low-impact tourism experiences that contribute to the local economy and conservation efforts.
Examples of Maasai Mara Conservancies
- Olare Motorogi Conservancy: Known for its rich biodiversity and luxury tourism experiences.
- Mara Naboisho Conservancy: A model conservancy known for integrating community benefits with conservation.
- Mara North Conservancy: Focuses on high-quality tourism and strong conservation practices.
About Maasai Mara Wildlife Conservancies Association (MMWCA)
The Maasai Mara Wildlife Conservancies Association (MMWCA) is a testament to Kenya’s commitment to conserving the greater Maasai Mara ecosystem. Established as a legal entity in 2013, MMWCA serves as a membership organization that coordinates a network of protected areas, including conservancies and conservation areas. These efforts aim to secure wildlife and sustainable livelihoods for local communities, promoting the prosperity of biodiversity, recreation, and tourism for the nation of Kenya.
Today, the 15 established conservancies in the Mara cover 347,011 acres, involving 14,528 landowners, including 223 women, and 39 tourism partners. These conservancies generate significant economic benefits, with lease payments amounting to over $4,895,731 annually and an additional $46,200 estimated from employment as rangers. These conservancies provide hundreds of thousands of international tourists with an intimate ‘big 5’ safari experience while maintaining a light carbon footprint.
List of Conservancies in Masai Mara
Here is a list of all 15 conservancies in the Maasai Mara:
- Lemek Conservancy
- Ol Chorro Oiroua Conservancy
- Oloisukut Conservancy
- Mara North Conservancy
- Olare Motorogi Conservancy
- Nashulai Conservancy
- Enonkishu Conservancy
- Pardamat Conservancy
- Olkinyei Conservancy
- Naboisho Conservancy
- Isaaten Conservancy
- Olderikesi Conservancy
- Siana Conservancy
- Mara Naboisho Conservancy
- Mara Siana Conservancy
These conservancies work together under the Maasai Mara Wildlife Conservancies Association (MMWCA) to protect wildlife, support local communities, and promote sustainable tourism in the greater Maasai Mara ecosystem.
Here’s a detailed table representing key information about the Maasai Mara conservancies and the efforts of the Maasai Mara Wildlife Conservancies Association (MMWCA):
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Established | 2013 |
| Total Area | 347,011 acres (1,405 km²) |
| Number of Conservancies | 15 |
| Number of Landowners | 14,528 (including 223 women) |
| Tourism Partners | 39 |
| Lease Payments | Over $4,895,731 annually |
| Ranger Employment | Estimated additional $46,200 through employment |
| Wildlife Corridors Secured | 2 major corridors |
| Rangers | Increased from 178 in 2015 to 280 currently |
| Conservancy Camps Area | Increased from 970 km² in 2015 to over 1,450 km² in 2019 |
| Wildlife Species | Over 95 species of mammals, including the ‘Big 5’, and more than 550 bird species |
| Additional Benefits | Bursaries, predator-proof bomas, grazing rights |
| Types of Conservancies | – Private Conservancy: Owned by individuals or corporate bodies (e.g., Olpejeta) |
| – Group Conservancy: Formed by consolidating lands of multiple owners (e.g., Naboisho) | |
| – Community Conservancy: Established on community land (e.g., those in Northern Kenya under NRT) | |
| Mission | To conserve the greater Maasai Mara ecosystem through a network of protected areas for the prosperity of all |
| Vision | A cultural landscape where communities and partners secure wildlife and sustainable livelihoods |
| Historical Ecosystem Coverage | Originally covered 11 group ranches and private lands |
| Ecological Significance | Supports the only ecologically viable lion population in Kenya and designated as an Important Bird Area |
| Organization | MMWCA is a membership organization open to any conservancy in the greater Maasai Mara ecosystem |
| Partners | Includes local communities, conservation partners, scientific experts, and government institutions |
| Social Impact | Enhances local livelihoods through lease payments, employment, and socio-economic benefits |
This table consolidates the vital statistics and contributions of the Maasai Mara conservancies, highlighting the efforts by MMWCA to foster a sustainable and prosperous ecosystem.
Overview of Masai mara Conservancies:
| Conservancy | Year of Establishment | Background Notes | Uniqueness |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ol Chorro Oiroua | 1992 | Formed from Ol Chorro Oiroua Wildlife Association by private landowning families owning a total of 22,000 acres. | Intensive rhino conservation with a dedicated surveillance unit. |
| Ol Kinyei | 2005 | Established by a tourism investor (Porini) from Ol Kinyei Group Ranch. | Known for cheetah habitats and provides crucial land for the Loita migration. |
| Olare Orok | 2006 | Created by landowners with support from Ron Beaton, Kicheche, Great Plains, and Porini. | Critical wildlife area with high lion densities. |
| Motorogi | 2007 | Formed by landowners with support from Virgin. | Noted for high lion density; borders the national reserve to the northeast. |
| Mara North | 2009 | Includes the Lemek Hills, formed from the amalgamation of 12 associations managing Koiyaki-Lemek Wildlife Trust. | Hosts a large population of herbivores; features an established livestock enterprise and grazing plans. |
| Naboisho | 2010 | Created from the amalgamation of 4 main associations managing the Lemek section of Koiyaki-Lemek Wildlife Trust. | Known for a successful grazing plan and upgraded road network. |
| Lemek | 2009 | Formed after the amalgamation of 4 main associations managing the Lemek section of Koiyaki-Lemek Wildlife Trust. | Recognized for high wildlife numbers; supports Mara Marathon and educational initiatives like Namunyak girls. |
| Oloisukut | 2010 | Formed from Kimintet Group Ranch; began operations in 2010 and relaunched with WWF support in 2016. | Noted for wildlife population; borders Nyekweri forest and farmlands, leading to high human-wildlife conflict. |
| Ol Derkesi | 2016 | Created through a partnership between the local community and Cottars. | Highest number of landowners; critical corridor between the MMNR and Serengeti; connects Mara and Naimina Enkiyio. |
| Enonkishu | 2011 | Partnership between Olerai Mara Farm Management and surrounding landowning families. | Features Mara Beef and Mara Training Center; focuses on range management. |
| Olarro | 2011 | Expanded in 2016 to form North and South Olarro. | Intensive management, including security surveillance and ecological monitoring. |
| Siana | 2016 | Originally formed from Siana Group Ranch in 2001; re-established with WWF support in 2016. | Secured a critical range for wild dogs. |
| Nashulai | 2016 | Partnership between local community members and 45 landowners adjacent to the National Reserve. | Important wildlife corridor; successful in securing a vulnerable area and fundraising. |
| Pardamat | 2016 | Formed from Block 3 section of Koiyaki Group Ranch. | Features a unique mixed model of conservation combining settlement and wildlife. |
| Isaaten | 2012 | Part of the greater Siana; established by Bushtop in collaboration with landowners. | Extends to Siana Hills; crucial corridor. |
This table provides a comprehensive overview of the establishment, background, and unique features of each conservancy within the Greater Maasai Mara Ecosystem.
Ol Chorro Oiroua Conservancy
Established in 1992 from the Ol Chorro Oiroua Wildlife Association, Ol Chorro Oiroua Conservancy spans 22,000 acres and is managed by a group of private landowning families. This conservancy is renowned for its intensive rhino conservation efforts, featuring a dedicated surveillance unit to protect this vulnerable species. It plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance while providing significant economic benefits to the local community through sustainable tourism and conservation initiatives.
Ol Kinyei Conservancy
Founded in 2005 by a single tourism investor from the Ol Kinyei Group Ranch, Ol Kinyei Conservancy is a vital habitat for cheetahs and supports the Loita migration. Covering an area critical for wildlife, the conservancy’s unique landscape and rich biodiversity make it a prime location for wildlife viewing and eco-tourism. It showcases successful partnerships between local communities and private investors, promoting conservation and sustainable development.
Olare Orok Conservancy
Olare Orok Conservancy, established in 2006 with support from Ron Beaton, Kicheche, Great Plains, and Porini, is known for its high lion densities and critical wildlife habitats. This conservancy is a pivotal area for big cat research and conservation, offering exclusive and low-impact tourism experiences. Its collaborative management model between local landowners and tourism partners exemplifies successful community-based conservation.
Motorogi Conservancy
Formed in 2007 with support from Virgin, Motorogi Conservancy borders the Maasai Mara National Reserve to the northeast and is known for its high lion density. The conservancy focuses on sustainable tourism and conservation, balancing wildlife protection with community benefits. It provides crucial habitats for predators and herbivores, contributing significantly to the greater Maasai Mara ecosystem’s biodiversity.
Mara North Conservancy
Mara North Conservancy, established in 2009, amalgamates 12 associations managing the Koiyaki section of the Koiyaki-Lemek Wildlife Trust, including the Lemek Hills. Known for its large populations of herbivores, it implements successful grazing plans and livestock enterprises, benefiting both wildlife and local communities. The conservancy’s innovative conservation strategies and community involvement set a benchmark for sustainable tourism.
Naboisho Conservancy
Created in 2010 from the amalgamation of four main associations managing the Lemek section of the Koiyaki-Lemek Wildlife Trust, Naboisho Conservancy covers a crucial wildlife corridor. It is recognized for its successful grazing plans and upgraded infrastructure, enhancing both conservation and tourism. Naboisho exemplifies the integration of community needs with wildlife protection, promoting sustainable land use.
Lemek Conservancy
Lemek Conservancy, established in 2009, resulted from merging four main associations managing the Lemek section of the Koiyaki-Lemek Wildlife Trust. It is unique for its abundant wildlife, including big cats and herbivores. The conservancy supports initiatives like the Mara Marathon and educational programs, demonstrating a strong commitment to community development alongside conservation.
Oloisukut Conservancy
Formed in 2010 from the Kimintet Group Ranch and relaunched with WWF support in 2016, Oloisukut Conservancy borders the Nyekweri forest and farmlands, leading to high human-wildlife conflict incidents. Despite these challenges, the conservancy is noted for its rich wildlife population and innovative conservation practices, balancing ecological protection with community needs.
Ol Derkesi Conservancy
Established in 2016 through a partnership between the local community and Cottars, Ol Derkesi Conservancy features the highest number of landowners among the Maasai Mara conservancies. It lies in a critical corridor connecting the Maasai Mara National Reserve and the Serengeti National Park, playing a pivotal role in regional wildlife migration and ecosystem connectivity.
Enonkishu Conservancy
Founded in 2011 as a partnership between Olerai Mara Farm Management and surrounding landowning families, Enonkishu Conservancy focuses on sustainable land management. It features initiatives like Mara Beef and the Mara Training Center, promoting conservation through agricultural practices and education. Enonkishu is a model for integrating farming with wildlife conservation.
Olarro Conservancy
Initially formed in 2011 and expanded in 2016 to include North and South Olarro, this conservancy is known for its intensive management practices, including security surveillance and ecological monitoring. Olarro Conservancy’s approach ensures the protection of wildlife while providing high-quality tourism experiences and supporting local communities.
Siana Conservancy
Re-established in 2016 with WWF support, Siana Conservancy was initially formed from the Siana Group Ranch in 2001. It secures a critical range for wild dogs and other wildlife, promoting biodiversity through sustainable tourism and community involvement. Siana’s conservation efforts are crucial for maintaining the ecological balance in the region.
Nashulai Conservancy
Formed in 2016 as a partnership between local community members and 45 landowners, Nashulai Conservancy is an important wildlife corridor adjacent to the Maasai Mara National Reserve. It has successfully secured vulnerable areas and raised significant funds for conservation and community development, demonstrating effective collaboration between stakeholders.
Pardamat Conservation Area
Established in 2016 from the former Block 3 section of the Koiyaki Group Ranch, Pardamat Conservation Area employs a unique mixed model of conservation, combining settlement and wildlife. It serves as a critical corridor for wildlife migration, balancing human habitation with ecological preservation through innovative land use practices.
Isaaten Conservancy
Formed in 2012 as part of the greater Siana area, Isaaten Conservancy was established by Bushtop in collaboration with local landowners. It extends to the Siana Hills and lies in a crucial wildlife corridor, contributing significantly to the connectivity and biodiversity of the Maasai Mara ecosystem. Isaaten exemplifies community-led conservation initiatives.
Comparison of Maasai Mara National Reserve and Maasai Mara Conservancies
The Maasai Mara National Reserve and the Maasai Mara Conservancies are both integral parts of the greater Maasai Mara ecosystem in Kenya. While they share some similarities, they also have distinct differences in terms of management, accessibility, conservation approaches, and community involvement. Below is a detailed comparison highlighting these aspects.
Management and Governance
- Maasai Mara National Reserve:
- Governance: Managed by the Narok County Council.
- Regulations: Subject to government regulations and policies.
- Revenue: Income generated primarily from park entrance fees and tourism-related activities.
- Infrastructure: Well-established with numerous roads, lodges, and camps.
- Maasai Mara Conservancies:
- Governance: Managed by local Maasai communities in partnership with private investors and conservation organizations.
- Regulations: Governed by agreements between landowners and conservancy management.
- Revenue: Income generated from tourism, lease payments, and conservation funding.
- Infrastructure: Typically has fewer roads and infrastructure to minimize environmental impact and maintain natural landscapes.
Accessibility and Tourism
- Maasai Mara National Reserve:
- Accessibility: Easily accessible with several entry gates and well-maintained roads.
- Tourism Density: High density of tourists, especially during the peak season of the Great Migration.
- Facilities: Numerous lodges, camps, and amenities cater to a large number of tourists.
- Activities: Game drives, hot air balloon safaris, and cultural visits.
- Maasai Mara Conservancies:
- Accessibility: Accessed through specific entry points, often requiring coordination with conservancy management.
- Tourism Density: Lower density of tourists, providing a more exclusive and intimate safari experience.
- Facilities: Limited lodges and camps, ensuring minimal environmental footprint and a more personalized experience.
- Activities: Day and night game drives, guided nature walks, and cultural tours. Off-road driving is often permitted, enhancing wildlife viewing experiences.
Conservation Approaches
- Maasai Mara National Reserve:
- Conservation Focus: Traditional conservation model with emphasis on preserving wildlife and natural habitats.
- Challenges: High tourism pressure can lead to environmental degradation and wildlife disturbances.
- Maasai Mara Conservancies:
- Conservation Focus: Community-based conservation that integrates local livelihoods with wildlife protection.
- Innovative Practices: Implement unique conservation practices like predator-proof bomas, sustainable grazing plans, and habitat restoration projects.
- Community Involvement: Strong emphasis on involving local communities in conservation efforts, ensuring they benefit economically and socially from tourism.
Community Involvement and Benefits
- Maasai Mara National Reserve:
- Community Benefits: Limited direct benefits to local communities; income primarily goes to the county council.
- Employment: Provides employment opportunities in tourism and park management.
- Maasai Mara Conservancies:
- Community Benefits: Direct financial benefits to landowners through lease payments and employment opportunities.
- Empowerment: Local communities have a significant role in decision-making processes, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility.
- Educational and Social Programs: Invests in education, healthcare, and infrastructure projects for local communities.
Wildlife and Ecosystem Management
- Maasai Mara National Reserve:
- Wildlife: Hosts a high density of wildlife, including the famous ‘Big Five’. The Great Migration sees over 1.5 million wildebeest and zebras cross into the reserve annually.
- Ecosystem: Part of the larger Serengeti-Mara ecosystem, playing a crucial role in regional biodiversity.
- Maasai Mara Conservancies:
- Wildlife: Equally rich in wildlife with additional benefits of less human interference. Known for high densities of predators like lions and cheetahs.
- Ecosystem: Critical corridors for wildlife migration and dispersal, ensuring genetic diversity and ecological balance.
- Special Programs: Focus on specific species conservation, such as rhino protection in Ol Chorro Oiroua and cheetah habitats in Ol Kinyei.
Table Comparison of Maasai Mara National Reserve and Maasai Mara Conservancies
| Feature | Maasai Mara National Reserve | Maasai Mara Conservancies |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 1,510 km² | 1,450 km² combined across 15 conservancies |
| Management | Narok County Council | Local Maasai communities, private investors, NGOs |
| Governance | Government regulations | Agreements between landowners and conservancy management |
| Revenue Source | Entrance fees, tourism | Tourism, lease payments, conservation funding |
| Tourism Density | High | Low to moderate, providing exclusive experiences |
| Infrastructure | Extensive roads, numerous lodges and camps | Limited roads and infrastructure to minimize impact |
| Wildlife Density | High, especially during the Great Migration | High, with notable predator populations |
| Wildlife Conservation | Traditional conservation methods | Community-based, innovative practices |
| Community Involvement | Limited direct benefits to local communities | Significant role and direct benefits |
| Key Activities | Game drives, hot air balloon safaris, cultural visits | Game drives, night drives, nature walks, cultural tours |
| Accessibility | Easily accessible via several gates and airstrips | Specific entry points, coordination required |
| Educational Programs | Limited | Extensive, including bursaries and community training |
| Economic Impact | County revenue | Direct financial benefits to local landowners and communities |
| Ecosystem Role | Part of Serengeti-Mara ecosystem | Critical wildlife corridors and dispersal areas |
| Unique Features | Famous for the Great Migration, high tourist volume | Exclusive safari experiences, lower impact tourism |
| Challenges | Overcrowding, environmental degradation | Balancing community needs with conservation goals |
| Special Programs | Limited | Specific species conservation, sustainable agriculture |