Celebrating Women, Wildlife, and Future Leaders

This month, we celebrated two significant global observances: International Women’s Day and World Wildlife Day These marked our dedication to empowering communities and safeguarding the natural world, values that form the core of our operations. We continue to educate children in rural schools through our EcoClub programs and support vital conservation efforts, particularly for Kenya’s endangered raptors. 

Educate

Children In the Wilderness (CITW) 

Our CITW EcoClub program, now active in our three partner schools, provides an engaging conservation education platform for 90 children between the ages of 11-14 years old. Dedicated EcoMentors lead the weekly sessions, fostering a deep understanding of environmental stewardship.  

Suguta Mugie Primary School – photo credit Felix Rome

In celebration of United Nations World Wildlife Day (March 3rd), we hosted an art competition, encouraging the EcoClub members to express their appreciation for wildlife through art. The winning entries from Suguta Mugie, TAFA, Margaret Kenyatta, Irbaan, and Mara Rianda Primary Schools showcased plenty of talent and passion. 

The winning picture was drawn by Emmanuel Rakwa from Margaret Kenyatta School 

Runner up- Suguta Mugie Primary School

Runner up- Mara Rianda Primary School

Runner up- Irbaan Primary School

TAFA Community Center 

One of the sessions that took place during the month provided students with knowledge of photosynthesis, the fundamental process by which plants produce their own food. 

TAFA EcoClub Lesson – photo credit Felix Rome

The lesson detailed the roles of key elements such as carbon dioxide, absorbed through stomata, water, drawn up from the roots, and sunlight, captured by chlorophyll. Students learned how plants convert these elements into glucose and oxygen, understanding the significance of this process for both plant life and the broader ecosystem 

TAFA EcoClub Lesson – photo credit Felix Rome

On Sunday, March 30th, our lakeside property Loldia House opened its doors to twelve TAFA Community Center EcoClub members and three dedicated EcoMentors, providing an unforgettable introduction to the world of conservation tourism.  

TAFA EcoClub field trip to Loldia – photo credit Felix Rome

The morning began with game drives through the conservancy and boat rides across Lake Naivasha, where the children encountered diverse wildlife, birdlife and stunning panoramic views, emphasising the interconnectedness of the ecosystem.  

TAFA EcoClub field trip to Loldia – photo credit Felix Rome

TAFA EcoClub field trip to Loldia – photo credit Felix Rome

Following these excursions, the children received a behind-the-scenes tour of Loldia House itself. Our team shared insights into the various departments and the operations involved in running a hotel, revealing the multifaceted nature of the tourism industry.

TAFA EcoClub field trip to Loldia – photo credit Felix Rome

TAFA EcoClub field trip to Loldia – photo credit Felix Rome

Before heading home, they had time to unwind and absorb their surroundings, whilst enjoying snacks and drinks on the lush lawn.  

TAFA EcoClub field trip to Loldia – photo credit Felix Rome

Such experiences are more than just outings; they are transformative moments that can profoundly shape a young person’s trajectory in life. By exposing these students to the realities of conservation tourism, we always aim to ignite a spark, revealing career paths they might never have considered.  

TAFA EcoClub field trip to Loldia – photo credit Felix Rome

We believe that by opening their eyes to this world, we are inspiring a new generation of conservationists and tourism professionals, empowering them to become future advocates for sustainable development and environmental stewardship. 

Mara Rianda EcoClub 

On March 28th, a collaborative environmental cleanup event was undertaken in the village of Mara Rianda. Some of our EcoClub members, alongside students from Denmark and personnel from the Mara North Conservancy and Masai Mara Wildlife Conservancies Association, participated in a coordinated effort to remove litter from the surrounding area.  

This community-driven event aimed to address the issue of waste management and promote environmental awareness among residents.  

Suguta Mugie Primary School 

At Suguta Mugie Primary School, a session on Human-Wildlife Conflict explored the causes and mitigation strategies, emphasising the interconnectedness of conservation efforts. 

EcoClub in action at Mugie Primary School – photo credit Felix Rome

Lively discussions were had, with the conclusion that conservation is an interconnected system where every individual’s effort is vital. They left the session with a renewed sense of urgency and a shared commitment to creating a harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife. 

EcoClub in action at Mugie Primary School – photo credit Felix Rome

For over six years, Mugie Conservancy has run ‘Healthy Kids’ classes at Mugie Primary School, combining health and conservation education. This long-term program aims to create a generation of environmentally aware and healthy individuals.  

Healthy Kids Session at Mugie Primary School – photo credit Felix Rome

Empower

International Women’s Day  

This year’s theme called for action that can unlock equal rights, power and opportunities for all. Central to this vision is empowering the next generation; particularly young women and teenage girls, as catalysts for lasting change. 

On March 8th, we celebrated the remarkable contributions of women across our whole collection. We highlighted Veronica, who is interning as a guide at Governors’ Camp Her dedication to providing exceptional safari experiences and breaking stereotypes is truly inspiring. Please watch the video here. 

Protect

Bird of Prey Conservation 

Guests at Loldia House can connect with vital conservation efforts through visits to the Kenya Bird of Prey Trust’s Naivasha Raptor Center. This unique experience allows visitors to witness firsthand the rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation of Kenya’s raptor populations.  

Guests leave with a deeper understanding and appreciation for the delicate balance of the region’s ecosystem, directly contributing to the Trust’s mission to protect these endangered species. 

Leah and Phil, a Verreaux’s eagle-owl – photo credit Alisa Karstad

We are committed to ensuring the smooth running of the center and each month, we provide the full cost of meat provisions for the 60-70 rescued birds under their care. This continual support has translated to over 13.5 tons (or KES 2,700,000) of meat donated over the past three years, ensuring the birds receive the sustenance they need to not only survive, but thrive in captivity. 

By facilitating visits for our guests and providing consistent financial support, we reinforce our dedication to responsible tourism and the preservation of Kenya’s natural heritage. 

Jonathan and Amira, a lappet-faced vulture- Photo credit Alisa Karstad

Governors’ Camp Collection remains committed to making a positive impact through empowering communities, educating future generations, and protecting Kenya’s diverse wildlife. Your stay with us directly contributes to these efforts.

By Alisa Karstad, Impact Manager for Governors’ Camp Collection. If you would like to learn more about any of our Impact efforts, you can reach out to us via email at info@governorscamp.com

If you’d like to support our work, you can use our secure online payment platform, which is linked below.

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