Communities at the Center of Wildlife Conservation with Peter Matunge

The conversation focuses on the importance of community involvement in wildlife conservation, emphasizing that areas with active community participation, such as patrolling, show higher wildlife diversity and abundance. It discusses the need for policies that empower communities to own and benefit from wildlife, which in turn promotes sustainable management and coexistence with these species.

In this conversation, Alex Lekishon shares his journey from the hospitality industry to conservation, emphasizing the vital connection between tourism and conservation. He discusses the importance of effective communication in documenting impact and engaging communities, as well as the challenges and successes he has faced in his role. Lekishon highlights the need for inclusivity in conservation efforts, the significance of donor relationships, and the future of conservation communications, advocating for community empowerment and storytelling. Enjoy and be Inspired💚🎙️

In this episode of the Boots on the Ground podcast, Erika Tavares shares her inspiring journey from a young girl in Angola to a passionate advocate for environmental conservation. She discusses her motivations for pursuing a career in environmental biology, the founding of Eco Angola, and the innovative projects aimed at educating the youth and promoting sustainability. Erika emphasizes the importance of building partnerships with government, NGOs, and local communities to achieve long-term environmental goals. She also addresses the unique challenges faced by women in conservation and offers valuable advice for young environmentalists. With a hopeful vision for Angola's environmental future, Erika calls on listeners to take meaningful action in their communities. Enjoy and be Inspired💚🎙️

In this episode of the Boots on the Ground podcast, Ambrose Letoluai shares his inspiring journey from a small village in Northern Kenya to becoming a renowned conservationist and leopard researcher. He discusses the importance of indigenous knowledge in conservation, the challenges of human-wildlife conflict, and the empowerment of local communities, especially women, in conservation efforts. Ambrose emphasizes the need for coexistence between wildlife and people, the role of education in fostering future conservation leaders, and the impact of visual storytelling in changing narratives around conservation. He envisions a future where communities are at the forefront of conservation efforts, benefiting from the wildlife with which they coexist, and leaving a lasting legacy for future generations. Enjoy and be Inspired🎙️💚

Happy World Rhino Day!! In this new episode of the Boots on the Ground podcast, Dr. Philip Muruthi shares his extensive journey in conservation, highlighting the importance of community involvement, innovative solutions, and the need for a holistic approach to wildlife protection. He discusses the successes in rhino conservation, the role of technology, and the significance of educating and inspiring the next generation to engage in conservation efforts. Dr. Muruthi emphasizes the urgent need for action to protect endangered species and the environment for future generations. Enjoy🎙️💚

In this episode of the Boots on the Ground podcast, Florence Wakio, a ranger and drone pilot, shares her inspiring journey in wildlife conservation. Growing up in a wildlife-rich area, she felt a responsibility to protect nature. Florence discusses her dynamic role as a ranger, the impact of drone technology on wildlife monitoring and anti-poaching efforts, and the challenges she faces in a male-dominated field. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship, memorable experiences in conservation, and the need for more women in the ranger workforce. Florence concludes with a call to action for support in conservation efforts. Enjoy and be inspired💚

In this third episode of the Boots on the Ground special new series 'Ethics in Wildlife Tourism', Felix Ongoma emphasizes the importance of local community involvement in conservation efforts. He shares insights on responsible and sustainable tourism, addressing common misconceptions and the role of tourism companies in educating travelers. Felix highlights the need for sustainable practices in lodges and camps, the impact of tourism numbers on visitor experiences, and envisions a future of tourism that is led by passionate youth. Enjoy and be inspired💚🎙️

In this second episode of our new series 'Ethics in Wildlife Tourism', I'm chatting with Adam Bannsiter. Adam shares his journey from a scientific background to becoming a leading wildlife guide and conservationist. He discusses the evolution of ecotourism in East Africa, the importance of ethical guiding, and the need to reshape guest expectations towards more sustainable experiences. Adam emphasizes the role of storytelling in guiding and the challenges posed by social media and over-tourism. He reflects on his successes in wildlife conservation and calls for a collective effort to protect future generations of wildlife. Enjoy and be inspired🎙️💚

In this episode of the Boots on the Ground podcast, Mercy Onyango shares her journey from her upbringing in Kenya to her current role as a sustainability manager at Soroi Collection. She discusses the evolution of wildlife tourism, the importance of responsible practices, and the critical role of community engagement in conservation efforts. Mercy emphasizes the need for ethical tourism, the challenges faced in the industry, and the empowerment of women in conservation. She also addresses the impact of climate change on safari tourism and the necessity of integrating conservation into tourism policies for a sustainable future.

Today, we’re joined by Kasaine Sankan, a seasoned carnivore researcher with over a decade of experience studying lions, cheetahs, wild dogs, and hyenas in the greater Mara ecosystem. From starting out as a research assistant on the Mara Hyena Project to playing a key role in Kenya’s first-ever national predator survey, Kasaine has dedicated his career to understanding and protecting Africa’s iconic predators. Now serving as Assistant Programme Scientist at the Kenya Wildlife Trust’s Mara Predator Conservation Programme, he blends science, community engagement, and conservation action to safeguard these species for generations to come. Enjoy and be inspired.💚🎙️