However, the wildlife and habitat are under increasing threat from human population growth and encroachment. Most of the local people live in extreme poverty and are dependent on grazing livestock and harvesting natural resources. The Marsabit Project, an initiative of Tusk and the Northern Rangelands Trust, supports three community conservancies in Marsabit to build peace and sustainable enterprise, implement natural resource management plans and carry out conservation activities.
The three conservancies act as a buffer around the Marsabit National Park and National Reserve, and secure migration paths for the regional elephant population. Rangers, recruited from the communities, are responsible for monitoring wildlife and engaging with local people on conservation awareness and natural resource management. The project is also making vital improvements to schools, many of which lack basic infrastructure such as classrooms or toilets. With 92% of the human population living in poverty and less than 70% able to read and write, such tangible benefits increase local support for conservation efforts.
Tusk is a key funder of The Marsabit Project, making grants that have directly supported schools and community projects.
This work is vital to protecting the wildlife and ecosystems around Mount Marsabit, for the benefit of the local people and the wider natural landscape. Ongoing funding is essential to enable the project to continue its activities and achieve its long-term goals.