ABOUT THE PROJECT
The Sarara Foundation works to protect the 850,000-acre Namunyak Community Conservancy in northern Kenya, safeguarding its landscapes, wildlife, and the Indigenous Samburu communities who call it home.
Rooted in community-led conservation, the Foundation’s work spans three core pillars: education and health, wildlife and conservation, and enterprise development. These pillars recognise a simple truth: long-term conservation only succeeds when ecosystems, livelihoods, and local leadership are strengthened together.
IMPACT
Impact Snapshot
Conservation Impact
To date, 23 elephants have been successfully released back into Namunyak Conservancy (in four releases), with 2024’s historic release herd of 13 now more than 650 days wild.
The Conservation Challenge
There are currently over 45 orphaned elephant calves at Reteti. Each calf drinks eight bottles of milk per day, making milk supply one of the sanctuary’s most critical and costly operational needs.
Locally sourced goat milk has proved not only effective, but superior to imported formula. By switching to local supply, Reteti has reduced its milk budget by approximately $45,000 per month, while significantly lowering its carbon footprint.
The programme does far more than feed elephants. It provides reliable income, recognition, and independence for Samburu women. Savings from formula imports can be redirected into community initiatives, including training in holistic land management and improved animal husbandry practices across the rangelands.
WHAT'S NEEDED NOW
Milk Mamma Motorbike
US$ 1,500Over twenty motorbikes are needed by the team of boda-boda riders who everyday collect over 650 litres of milk from 22 villages in the Conservancy. They drive over rough tracks in scorching weather, wearing the bikes out quickly.
TRAVEL CONNECTION
Suggested Camps & Experiences
If you visit Samburu National Park on your Kenyan Safari, a visit to Namunyak Conservancy and the Retiti Elephant Sanctuary can be added to your itinerary
Travel Partnerships
Sarara Camp, Sarara Treehouses, Retiti House, Sarara Wilderness
WAYS TO SUPPORT
Donate
Make a direct contribution to this conservation project and help protect wildlife on the ground.
DONATE TO THIS PROJECTFundraise
Rally your friends and community to support this project. Every bit helps.
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