Enhancing Climate Resilience: People and Wildlife

We are excited to share the latest updates from Enhancing Climate Resilience: People and Wildlife.

The recent El Niño rains that started at the end of October have finally tapered off, which provided an out-of-the-ordinary start to the year, with lush green rangelands across the conservancy.

These rains have highlighted the importance of water availability for the health and well-being of wildlife, particularly our rhinos. Rhinos can consume 60-80kg of forage a day and up to 72 litres of water when thirsty. They must drink water at least every 4-5 days to remain in optimum health. The proximity to water must be within a day’s travel when there is dry forage and a lack of sufficient water quantity and quality can have detrimental effects on their territorial behaviour, body condition, and reproductive success.

Over recent years, Ol Pejeta and the wider Laikipia-Samburu ecosystem have experienced reduced and changing rainfall patterns, leading to more frequent and severe dry spells. While recent rainfall has provided some relief, we recognise the need to prepare for a future of increasingly erratic weather patterns. We have introduced new initiatives aimed at ensuring water security such as the re-drilling and solarisation of four boreholes, the replacement of 25km of degraded pipeline, and increased water storage capacity at the Sweetwater’s chimpanzee sanctuary.

As we look to the future, our focus remains on building resilience, fostering sustainability, and creating lasting change. With your continued support, we are confident in our ability to overcome challenges and achieve our conservation goals. Together, we can ensure a brighter future for Ol Pejeta Conservancy and the precious wildlife it protects.

We extend our sincere appreciation to you, your generosity and dedication are essential to the success of our efforts, and we are grateful for your continued partnership in our journey towards a more resilient and sustainable future.