Research recently undertaken by Oxford Brookes University has acknowledged the ecological importance of Kenya’s conservancy concept.

Laura Doughty from the Spatial Ecology and Land Use Unit of the University spent some time at our Gamewatchers Adventure Camp whilst carrying out her research in Ol Kinyei Conservancy – the 18700 acre protected area surrounding this camp (and Porini Mara Camp) in which our guests take exclusive game drives and guided walks.

Laura with Gamewatchers Safaris staff 

The aim of her research project was to assess the ecological viability of wildlife conservancies in the Masai Mara ecosystem, and Laura chose Ol Kinyei as the basis for her analysis since it is a well-established Conservancy, being one of the first to have been developed.

Laura’s investigations demonstrated that small wildlife conservancies are effective in elevating wildlife populations and providing refuge to resident and migrating wildlife in areas outside the main Masai Mara National Reserve.

The findings of Laura’s report confirm that Ol Kinyei Conservancy is supporting various different animal species in significant abundance and that over time grassland recovery and habitat regeneration is achievable.

This is encouraging for potential investors in future conservancies and those land owners who are considering leasing their land to diversify their livelihood.

Click here (or on the image above) to read Laura’s report in full.