The Ol Pejeta Conservancy has started rehabilitation work of neighbouring government-run ADC Mutara Ranch in Laikipia District. This project is a unique partnership between the Agricultural Development Corporation (ADC), the African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) and Ol Pejeta Conservancy. The three partners are working towards bringing wildlife conservation and, ultimately, tourism and economic benefits to Mutara Ranch. The aim is to benefit the wildlife and local communities by preserving the area for wildlife migration while establishing the infrastructure needed to support successful ecotourism and cattle ranching ventures.

Under the agreement, AWF is providing the funding for infrastructure improvements, while Ol Pejeta Conservancy, which borders Mutara Ranch, is providing the equipment, personnel and expertise to establish a conservation and ecotourism venture. ADC is setting aside 20,000 acres within Mutara Ranch for wildlife conservation and ecotourism, and will manage the entire ranch area in a manner that protects wildlife habitat and prevents poaching. Currently Mutara Ranch is host to significant wildlife populations including lion, elephant, buffalo and the endangered Jackson’s hartebeest, and forms an integral part of the world renowned Laikipia ecosystem.

Through the establishment of partnerships of this kind, Ol Pejeta Conservancy will continue to operate beyond it’s boundaries to stimulate wildlife conservation effort across southern Laikipia, helping to provide economic opportunity and to improve land productivity in a manner that is entirely sustainable.