USAID and Amboseli Ecosystem Trust on Wednesday broke ground to begin the construction of Amboseli Ecosystem Trust’s new office complex.
According to a statement released by US Embassy on Thursday, as the umbrella organization for conservancies in Amboseli and the voice of conservation and ecosystem management for local communities living with wildlife, the new base will help Amboseli Ecosystem Trust to be more effective.
The US Embassy said in the statement that the construction is supported by the US Agency for International Development Sustainable Management of Amboseli and Tsavo Landscapes project.
“Amboseli is integral to wildlife and biodiversity conservation both in Kenya and globally. Meaningful collaboration that champions locally led conservation is needed to overcome challenges facing the landscape,” said James Isiche, International Fund for Animal Welfare’s (IFAW) Africa Director.
AET is the main coordinator of all the wildlife conservancies in Amboseli. Modern and adequate office space will support their function at a time when rapid reduction of wildlife habitat is adversely affecting both wildlife and community livelihoods.
“AET’s work helps ensure land and resources are handled responsibly and sustainably, but it also helps ensure that policies are in the best interests of Amboseli communities. This new complex is an important stepping stone to further AET’s critical role in that space,” said David Gosney, USAID Mission Director for Kenya and East Africa.
“The Amboseli ecosystem is a vital biosphere, equally important for wildlife, humans and their livestock. It has been supporting communities and landowners in ecosystem planning and ensuring connectivity between protected areas, conservancies, and corridors. We thank USAID for championing community-led, owned and managed conservation initiatives,” said Jackson Mwato, Executive Director, Amboseli Ecosystem Trust.
The construction of the complex is supported by USAID’s investment of more than $380,000 for critical infrastructure in the region and is part of its broader support of $7.8 million to the Sustainable Management of Amboseli and Tsavo Landscapes project.
Wildlife PS Sylvia Museiya, Kajiado Deputy Governor Martin Moshisho Martine, the Acting Director General of Kenya Wildlife Service Dr. Erustus Kanga, and Kajiado County and community leaders participated in the ceremony.
