What does the conservation project do?
The project is focused not only on the long-term reforestation of a badly affected region, but also works with the local community on grassroots involvement and awareness-raising programmes.
The project aims to build up bare areas of hillside, which used to be wooded, to protect wildlife and to safeguard the essential water supply to over seven million people, which depends on the protection of the surrounding forest, and is seriously threatened by the environmental impact of such drastic deforestation. It is hoped that reforestation will encourage the indigenous animals back to the area, such as elephant and buffalo, not to mention many bird species. The project was started by local subsistence farmers, who also volunteer daily at the project. They will welcome you into their project and their community and enjoy meeting people from different cultures.
Why does the project need volunteers?
Approximately 75% of energy used in Kenya is based on wood, despite the fact that the country has a relatively low amount of forested areas. Those areas are steadily depleting, due to constant logging and the spreading of urban areas into the forested regions. The impact is both environmental and social, with indigenous species of trees and wildlife diminishing and local communities still reliant on dwindling resources. The environmental damage means that there is a depleted rainfall, fewer nutrients in the soil, and greater risk of landslips and wind erosion. This project desperately needs volunteers to play a part in the long-term reforestation activities which will contribute to a more balanced relationship between the natural environment and the human communities that the forested land supports. The project takes a long term view of this work and is constantly looking at new ideas, while hoping to expand into a larger area with more members becoming involved.
Your role as a volunteer
Your main role as a volunteer will involve the general maintenance of planting seeds, replanting saplings, weeding and maintaining the seedbeds, so you will need to be prepared for physical, hands-on labour! You will also be collecting seeds from the forest, collecting soil, and potting seed bags. Alongside local volunteers, you will work in the tree nursery preparing, planting and watering seed beds and taking care of the seedlings. In the planting seasons (March to May and August to November) you will help to plant the seedlings in the foothills of Mount Kenya, local schools, and other community areas.
You may have the opportunity to go into local schools to educate children about the environment. There may also be opportunities for building work, construction and clearing unused areas of land.
The skills you need
In such a practical project, volunteers must be prepared to get their hands dirty, and have the patience and flexibility to do a wide range of activities. The ability to view the bigger picture and long term goals of the project are essential to the understanding of activities that may seem repetitive at times. A genuine interest in the environment and a love of nature and the outdoors, as well as an awareness of your activities in relation to local communities are also very important.
The members of the project educate children in local schools about the importance of the environment, and the necessity of conservation, not only in their area, but on a global scale. They prefer volunteers to have a sound knowledge of their own environment and conservation programmes from home.
The project members welcome other skills, currently also computer skills (particularly web design), and building skills. They would also like to expand in other areas such as teaching craft and art to local people for them to sell to augment their incomes. Artistic and photographic skills, along with creative ideas are very welcome.
Accommodation included
You will be staying at shared hostel accommodation about 40 minutes walk from the project, which is the perfect opportunity to make friends with other volunteers. You should be prepared for plenty of spare time to read and play cards in the evening, and to chat to hikers who use the hostel as a base before climbing Mount Kenya.
Project resources and advice
All necessary materials are provided at the project, but you may wish to bring work/gardening gloves, small hand tools, and literature on conservation and the environment to help when educating the local community.
Local facilities
At this project, you will find several small villages in the spectacular foothills of the mountain itself. The nearest is Naro Moru, 12km away, which is a quiet village with a handful of small hotels, public telephones, small shops and a supermarket. For a wider range of facilities including internet access, Nanyuki is 30 minutes away and easily accessible on public transport.
Ideas for your spare time
Your weekends will be completely free to explore the stunning wilderness! It's a perfect opportunity to walk to the local caves and if you fancy spotting a bird or two, guided bird watching tours are available. If you fancy something more energetic, there's a nearby soccer pitch where the local team play in the evenings and welcome new talent! There are game parks and reserves within easy reach, while Nairobi is only three hours away by public transport.
Food included
Each day you'll be provided with two simple but nutritious meals, which are vegetarian friendly. Lunch is also available at the project for a small charge.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Price Includes:
- Accommodation: Shared dormitory room in hostel
- Food: Breakfast and dinner
- Airport Pickup: Included on arrival date. Ask us for details if you're arriving early!
- Training: In-country orientation
- Support: Pre-departure helpdesk, Local in-country team and 24hr emergency support
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