Community Based Development and Nature Conservation
In 2004, on a hill overlooking the great Milgis ‘lugga’ – a seasonal river that winds its way between the Matthews Range and Ndoto Mountains, in the remote and stunningly beautiful region of north east Kenya - the Milgis Trust was born. “Nothing is as powerful as an idea whose time has come.” ~Victor Hugo 1802-1885. The Milgis Trust is such an idea.
Community Based Development and Nature Conservation
In response to the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats confronting the people, wildlife and habitat within this 8000 sq km territory, the Milgis Trust has worked successfully in collaboration with the Samburu and Rendille people. Respect for their culture, local knowledge and tribal beliefs has enabled the blazing of new trails in community based development and nature conservation unique to this region of Africa.
Community Based Development and Nature Conservation
With the help of the Milgis Trust and basic eye surgery this young girl for the first time in 20 years is able to see herself, her family and the beauty that surrounds her. She no longer needs to be led and is now leading others. What greater gift could be given – than vision.
The Milgis Trust’s vision, mission and magnificent obsession is to conserve the wildlife, habitat and the local pastoral people’s way of life – to protect its biodiversity and improve the livelihoods of all who have lived for centuries within the Milgis ecosystem. However, climate change, population growth and increased demands on resources are presenting challenges that need to be addressed urgently.
Community Based Development and Nature Conservation
"Ultimately, conservation is about people. It is only through alliances and partnerships that wilderness areas can be made relevant to the needs of society." - Nelson Mandela “We must think beyond boundaries, beyond ethnic and religious grounds and beyond nations in our global quest for a just world that values and conserves nature.� - HM Queen Noor of Jordan Excerpts from the 5th World Parks Congress, Durban, South Africa September 2003
Community Based Development and Nature Conservation
The building of stakeholder consensus and forming alliances and partnerships is central to all Milgis Trust projects.
A non exhaustive list of Milgis Trust programmes include: • Communications, Operations and Scouts • Wildlife Rescue and Monitoring • Natural Resource Management • Sustainable Development Awareness Raising • Water, Health and Education • Wildlife and Livestock Veterinary Services • Poverty Alleviation • Responsible Tourism
Community Based Development and Nature Conservation
Radio Hill - is home to 2 full time radio operators monitoring and co-ordinating a myriad of planned activities and responding to numerous unforeseen emergencies.
Milgis Trust Scouts put their lives on the ‘thin green line’ 24/7 – 365 days a year by implementing conflictsensitive dialogue, protecting and monitoring wildlife, livestock, deforestation and biodiversity.
Natural Resource Management is an ever increasing challenge due to climate change and population growth.
The Milgis Trust address these issues through education, education and more education and that starts with building schools.
We have barely touched the surface of what the Milgis Trust does and still has to do. Much of what has been achieved to date is due to responsible tourism efforts in conducting camel safaris in this unmatched wilderness. Many camel safari guests exposed to the work of the Milgis Trust have been inspired to support the trust’s work in cash and in kind, and for this we are forever grateful.
Community Based Development and Nature Conservation
“ To have had the opportunity to experience a camel safari with Wild Frontiers for me has been an experience that no other can rival. For me it has clarified the issues in life that are important, and rendered mole hills of the mountains we create with the petty issues that seem so important at times. It is an experience many should create the opportunity to undertake.� ~ A. G. Szekely, Australia
Community Based Development and Nature Conservation
In order to address more effectively the unfolding impacts of climate change - the Milgis Trust and Wild Frontiers-Kenya, has teamed up with the ResponseAbility Alliance and Lengthen Your Stride, and invite you to be part of this holistic and unique community based development and nature conservation initiative.
Community Based Development and Nature Conservation
For more information, visit: www.milgistrustkenya.com www.wildfrontierskenya.com www.responseabilityalliance.com
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