A conservation education initiative dedicated to inspiring young people to understand, value, and protect the natural environments that shape their lives.
In 2024, Children in the Wilderness (CITW) was launched in Kenya, introducing conservation education to children living in the remote areas where we operate.
Built on the understanding that conservation starts with awareness, the programme connects young people to the natural environments that influence their daily lives and encourages a deeper appreciation of these landscapes and their importance for the future. CITW Kenya forms part of the wider Children in the Wilderness programme, which works across Africa to nurture the next generation of conservation custodians.
Starting with Eco Clubs
The program started with the formation of Eco-clubs in three partner schools across the Masai Mara, Laikipia, and Naivasha regions, each comprising 30 members. These clubs became part of the school co-curricular activities, providing a regular space for learning and participation
Through weekly lessons and hands-on activities, students explore topics directly relevant to their environment, including trees, wildlife, ecosystems, and the importance of conservation in their daily lives. Eco-club sessions are interactive, encouraging students to ask questions, share observations, and engage in practical environmental projects.
The goal is not just to teach, but to help students see how closely their lives are connected to the natural world around them.
Since 2024, the program has expanded from 3 eco clubs with 90 members to 9 clubs, now serving 270 students.
Eco-Mentor Training
Early in the rollout, it became clear that the long-term success of the programme would depend on the people delivering it.
Eco-Mentor training was therefore prioritised. Teachers, community members, and camp staff were equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to lead sessions, facilitate discussions, and support the development of the Eco-clubs.
To date, 25 eco mentors have been trained in Kenya. Their role is vital to ensuring the programme remains consistent, locally relevant, and sustainable within each community.
Annual Camps
In October 2024, CITW Kenya hosted its first annual camp, an important milestone for the programme.
Thirty Eco-club members were invited to Governors’ Private Camp, where many experienced a safari setting for the first time. For some, it was also their first opportunity to see wildlife up close.
Annual camps provide students with the opportunity to step outside their usual environment and experience conservation in a more immersive way. Through a combination of environmental education, practical activities, game drives, and nature walks, students are able to connect what they have learned in Eco-clubs with real-world
The programme has continued to grow. In 2025, six schools participated, bringing the total number of students who have attended annual camps to 90.
During these camps, students also gain insight into the ecotourism industry by visiting different departments within our properties. They are introduced to potential career pathways, while also building friendships across regions and learning from one another.
For many, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, one that strengthens their understanding of conservation while building confidence, curiosity, and leadership skills.
Football practice at TAFA
Enabling Projects
Some of the children in the programme come from disadvantaged backgrounds and are unable to afford school fees and essential learning materials. Through the support of the Wilderness Trust and generous donors, CITW Kenya currently provides bursary support to 25 students in Naivasha and Laikipia through the Bursary Fund.
Guests visiting our camps also have the opportunity to contribute directly through initiatives such as Guided Community Giving, bringing much-needed supplies that support both students and schools.
In addition, guests can take part in our Visit a Rural School experience, offering a meaningful way to engage with local communities and see first-hand the impact of these initiatives.
Partner schools have also received support in the form of renovations, desks, chairs, exercise books, solar lamps and sports equipment. These contributions help create more effective learning environments and improve access to education.
Looking Ahead
By working with children, CITW Kenya is investing in the next generation of decision-makers.
The long-term goal is to inspire young people to understand, value, and protect the environments they depend on, encouraging a sense of responsibility that will extend into the future.
“Children in the Wilderness is changing lives. By opening the doors of nature to young people, it nurtures confidence, leadership, and hope where once there was uncertainty’’
Sammy Kamau Tafa Community Center Founder and Eco-mentor
How to Help
Donations of any size can be made to Children in the Wilderness via our US 501(c) registered partner- Empowers Africa. Please email us with your donation details so that we can ensure the funds are directed to the CITW Kenya programme.
If you would like to learn more about the program, please email us at [email protected]
Thank you for helping us empower Kenya’s future leaders.
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