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Saruni Basecamp World Rhino Day

Under Samburu’s vast skies, September 22nd marked a momentous day for rhino conservation. World Rhino Day found special resonance in Samburu as Cabinet Secretary for Wildlife and Tourism, Rebecca Miano, led the country’s official celebration at Sera Conservancy. Her presence, alongside representatives from Sera Conservancy management, Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT), Saruni Basecamp, and other partners, ignited a sense of hope and determination.

Saruni Basecamp World Rhino Day

As the minister arrived, the crowd erupted in enthusiastic applause, their shared passion for rhino conservation echoing through the air. Traditional Samburu dances, their rhythmic chants carried by the wind, filled the celebration with vibrant energy. It was a powerful reminder that conservation is inextricably linked to the survival of the Samburu culture, and the protection of wildlife is synonymous to their identity.

Guests were invited to witness the remarkable success of the Sera Rhino Sanctuary. Once a severely degraded environment with rampant poaching and ongoing insecurity due to cattle raiding and conflict among communities, the sanctuary now thrives under the watchful eyes of the local community. As CS Miano addressed the crowd, she spoke of Kenya’s extraordinary progress in recent years and how the rhino population had surged from the brink of extinction to a thriving community.

“The people of Samburu East have shown unwavering dedication to conserving their natural heritage, she began, acknowledging the vital role local communities play in rhino protection. Her voice filled with pride as she recounted Kenya’s remarkable achievement in increasing its rhino population in just three decades. “From a population of less than 400 rhinos in 1989 to nearly 1,900 today, the figures are both a testament to success and a stark reminder that the battle is far from over.”

Saruni Basecamp World Rhino Day

This success is in large part due to the establishment of rhino sanctuaries like Sera. Created in 2015 and spanning 107km, the sanctuary is a demonstration of the community’s deep commitment to wildlife protection. Starting with only 10 black rhinos, today the sanctuary is home to 22 black rhinos and 5 white rhinos, monitored and protected round the clock by a dedicated team of local conservancy rangers, community members, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), and international conservation partners. The success of the Sera Rhino Sanctuary stands as a groundbreaking achievement for community-led conservation in Africa.

Saruni Basecamp’s contribution to rhino conservation is exemplified by the establishment of Saruni Rhino, the sole accommodation partner in the Sera Community Conservancy. This partnership not only strengthens Sera’s mission to protect endangered species, particularly the black and white rhinos but also delivers tangible benefits to the local community. With over 90% of the staff comprising of local Samburu men and women, Saruni Rhino creates vital employment opportunities while offering continuous training to enhance skills and professionalism.

Saruni Basecamp World Rhino Day

In addition, the rhino tracking experience at Saruni Rhino not only offers an unforgettable experience but also serves as a crucial revenue stream for the conservancy. Guests contribute directly to the conservation efforts through conservancy fees, ensuring the long-term sustainability of both the wildlife and the livelihoods of the local community. These funds support the sanctuary’s operations, anti-poaching initiatives, and the salaries of rangers who risk their lives to defend this critical habitat.

As Svein Wilhelmsen, Chair and Founder of Saruni Basecamp, notes, “The success of rhino conservation at Sera Conservancy is a powerful demonstration of what can be achieved when communities take the lead in protecting their natural heritage. At Saruni Basecamp, we are honored to be part of this journey, creating a unique wildlife experience that connects conservation with community empowerment. Each rhino saved symbolizes resilience, collaboration, and hope for future generations.”

The local community leaders and members echoed this sentiment, their involvement in the conservation story being nothing short of remarkable. The celebrations also highlighted the unsung heroes behind this success, the Rangers. These dedicated individuals endure harsh conditions and put their lives on the line daily to protect the rhinos from poachers, ensuring that these creatures continue to thrive.

World Rhino Day is a once-a-year event, but the work of Sera Conservancy, Saruni Rhino, and countless others in the conservation landscape is a constant, ongoing mission. As Kenya’s rhino population continues to grow, the positive impact of these efforts becomes increasingly clear. Every rhino protected, every ranger deployed, and every guest who supports these initiatives contributes to a sustainable future for wildlife, local communities, and conservation as a whole. Though the journey is long, the continued collaboration and commitment inspire hope for the future of Kenya’s rhinos.

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