A Beacon of Hope in Ijara: The Story of Ishaqbini Conservancy
In the heart of Garissa County, Kenya, a remarkable story of community-led conservation is unfolding. The Ishaqbini Hirola Community Conservancy stands as a beacon of hope for endangered species, showcasing the power of collaboration and local stewardship.
A Rare Sight: The White Giraffe
Ishaqbini gained international attention for being home to the world's only known white giraffe. This magnificent creature, a male with leucism (a condition that inhibits skin cells from producing pigment), became a symbol of both the beauty and the fragility of Kenya's wildlife. While the loss of a white female and her calf to poachers in 2020 was a devastating blow, it also galvanized conservation efforts.
Protecting the Icon:
In a crucial move to ensure the white male's safety, a GPS tracking device was fitted to his ossicone (horn) with the support of the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), the Northern Rangelands Trust, and Save Giraffes Now. This technology enables rangers to monitor his movements closely, providing vital protection against poaching.
A Haven for the Hirola:
Beyond the white giraffe, Ishaqbini is a critical refuge for the hirola antelope, one of the world's most endangered antelopes. With an estimated wild population of only 450, the hirola is native to the arid woodlands and savannahs of the Kenya/Somali border. In 2012, the community established a predator-proof Hirola Sanctuary within the conservancy. Thanks to their dedicated care, the sanctuary population has thrived, growing from a founder group of 48 to an estimated 118-130 antelopes.
Community-Led Conservation:
What makes Ishaqbini truly special is its community-driven approach. Established by the Hara, Kotile, and Korisa communities, the conservancy aims to conserve the ecosystem while sustaining local livelihoods. This model has created direct employment for 58 people from the community, including 24 scouts, providing economic benefits that incentivize conservation.
A Collaborative Effort:
Ishaqbini's success is a testament to the power of collaboration. The conservancy has forged strong partnerships with various organizations, including:
The County Government of Garissa
San Diego Zoo Global
Disney Conservation
United States Agency for International Development (USAID)
Sidekick Foundation
New Mexico Community Foundation
The Nature Conservancy (TNC)
Biodiversity and Protected Areas Management (BIOPAMA)
Global Wildlife Conservation
Wildlife Protection Solutions
Tusk Trust
Embassy of Denmark through DANIDA
Savannah Tracking
David Cotton
Saint Louis Zoo
World Wildlife Fund (WWF)
Indianapolis
These partnerships have not only improved wildlife conservation but also enhanced access to water, school bursaries, livestock vaccination, and micro-finance enterprises for local women and youth.
Hippy Safaris: Supporting Community-Based Conservation
At Hippy Safaris, we believe in supporting travel that makes a positive impact. We're inspired by the work of Ishaqbini Conservancy and the dedication of the communities involved. We offer trips that highlight the importance of community-based conservation and contribute to the well-being of local people and wildlife.
Join us on a journey that matters!
