Period of Operation 01.07.02 – 14.07.02

Area of Operation

Mtito River stretch from Athi confluence to Mtito Town, Athi River Stretch from Mtito River junction to Tsavo River, Waterholes within the triangle, and Kyulu station.

Participants

James Mbuthia - Team Leader Peter Wambua - Assistant John Malonza - Tracker Julius Mwania - Vehicle security Jacob Karuti - KWS Ranger Jacob Lomeiko - KWS Ranger Julius Kyalo - In camp

Findings

With poachers changing their techniques and trying new methods of snaring. Surprise appearances at poacher hotspots acts as a deterrent. A total of 388 snares were lifted during the July operation, with the concentration increasing towards Mtito Town. It must be pointed out that this is the snaring peak period due to the end of the dry season and so the majority of people are idle and hungry..

During the operation, one poacher from Kathekani area was arrested with 7 arrows, 1 bow, and 48 snares recovered.

Around Mtito, where the majority of poachers operate, our presence is vital because we can patrol the main penetration points into both Parks. On the Eastern side, access is along the railway and tarmac road, while the Western side is accessed behind the Mosque and pipeline cutline. Pressure in these areas should be maintained. Theses are the areas where we found and collected freshly laid snares

Community Awareness

VIDEO SHOWS

Since the purchase of a new generator, and the putting together of our mobile unit, community work has picked up with new enthusiasm. Five schools were visited, namely Kamunyu, Ngiluni, Iviani, Kikwasuni, and Matangini Primary Schools, where we showed wildlife films to the pupils.

SCHOOL FIELD TRIPS

This month two schools have benefited with field trips to Tsavo West National Park. Kikwasuni Primary school wildlife club members went on July 20^th, and Matangini Primary school wildlife club members went on July 27^th.

SPORTS / ATHLETICS

On July 21^st, we had a football match between Mambo F.C. and Kyusiani Football club, bringing together these two communities. This athletic season, I have been training young athletes from Kamunyu Primary School. So far they have topped the whole division and will proceed for the interdivision Championships next month.

TREE PLANTING PROJECT

The seedlings have been transplanted into plastic bags. After the rains start, they will be ready for distribution to the community.

Report by James Mbuthia