Lekurruki Conservancy
Lekurruki Conservancy is a model of progressive conservation that harmonises environmental stewardship with community well-being. Established in 1999 and registered under the Land (Group Representatives) Act, it represents a significant milestone in community-led conservation efforts. In 2021, this land transitioned to community land in alignment with the Community Land Act of 2016.
Situated in the heart of Kenya’s Laikipia Plateau and encompassing an impressive area of 7,500.5 hectares or approximately 70 square kilometres in Sieku location, Mukogodo Division, Laikipia North Constituency, the conservancy is committed to protecting its diverse ecosystems while empowering the local Yaaku communities. As an essential link between protected areas in Laikipia, Isiolo, and Samburu, Lekurruki Conservancy is not merely a geographical entity but a community-owned enterprise with a profound vision: to uplift the living standards of indigenous communities through wildlife conservation and sustainable natural resource management. Since its inception, the conservancy has been dedicated to promoting both security for its people and wildlife while creating employment opportunities for local residents.
Revenue from ecotourism initiatives like Tassia Community Lodge directly supports conservation projects and community development, including education and healthcare. By blending traditional knowledge with modern conservation strategies, Lekurruki stands as a testament to grassroots environmental resilience.
The Lekurruki Community Conservancy stands as a testament to resilience—a model for how local communities can harmoniously coexist with nature while striving for sustainable development amidst challenges.
Mission
To uplift the living standards of indigenous communities through wildlife conservation and sustainable natural resource management.
Vision
To improve the quality of life for around 4,900 people by harmoniously coexisting with nature while striving for sustainable development.
Values
- Sustainable land practices
- Preserving both culture and environment for future generations
- Promoting both security for its people and wildlife
Your Visit Makes a Difference
Revenue from ecotourism initiatives like ours directly funds community and conservation development projects. By choosing to visit Tassia, you become part of a grassroots movement that blends traditional knowledge with modern conservation strategies, impacting the lives of 820 local families that call this land home.
Wildlife
Safeguarding endangered species and restoring vital wildlife habitats. Through community-led patrols and anti-poaching initiatives, we are committed to protecting the rich biodiversity that defines our landscape.
Conservation efforts at Tassia Community Lodge play a crucial role in preserving the rich biodiversity of the Lekurruki area. This community is nestled within an important wildlife corridor, bordered by three other conservancies: Ol Donyiro, Leparua, and Il Ngwesi. Together, these areas provide a sanctuary for key wildlife species such as elephants, giraffes, lions, Grevy’s zebras, common zebras, elands, lesser and greater kudus, leopards, cheetahs, wild dogs, buffaloes, and warthogs. The region is also home to a diverse array of bird species that thrive in this unique ecosystem.
Communinty
At Lekurruki Conservancy, we are dedicated to a pioneering approach to conservation that harmonises environmental stewardship with the well-being of local communities.
The local community's relationship with the land is vital for both their livelihood and the conservation of wildlife. During the dry season, community members graze their livestock around Melita, Nasikor, Lolbangi, Ltirim Lesakui, Porowet, Rere, Losos and Pejeto. Conversely, during the wet season they shift to grazing near Naimarlal settlement areas and the Nadung’oru plains adjacent to Mukogogo forest. This careful management of grazing patterns is overseen by the Conservancy Grazing Committee; however it faces challenges due to encroachment from livestock belonging to neighbouring communities.
Land
We prioritise sustainable land use by integrating livestock grazing plans with wildlife corridors. This thoughtful approach ensures coexistence between humans and nature, allowing both communities and wildlife to thrive together.
However, these efforts face challenges due to encroachment from livestock belonging to neighbouring communities. Such disruptions threaten not only the delicate balance of wildlife habitats but also the livelihoods of those who depend on these lands for grazing their animals. At Lekurruki we recognise that successful conservation requires collaboration between all stakeholders involved—wildlife enthusiasts and local communities alike—to ensure a harmonious coexistence that benefits both nature and people for generations to come.