Community Conservation Driving Recovery of Grevy’s Zebra Population

Story by Ayubu John Afrimedia Group news.Speech By Dr. David Kimiti, Director of Research and Impact, Grevy’s Zebra Trust

Across the vast rangelands of northern Kenya, a quiet but powerful conservation success story is unfolding—one that is rooted not in distant policy rooms, but in the hands of local communities.

The endangered Grevy’s zebra, the largest and most distinctive of all wild equids, has long faced the threat of extinction. With a global population of only about 3,000 individuals—nearly all found within Kenya—the urgency to protect this iconic species has never been greater. Yet today, there is renewed hope.

At the Grevy’s Zebra Trust, we have seen firsthand how community-led conservation is transforming this narrative. By placing local people at the center of conservation efforts, we are not only protecting wildlife—we are rebuilding ecosystems and strengthening livelihoods.

One of the most impactful platforms supporting this work is the Lewa Safari Marathon. Through its support, we have been able to invest in grassroots initiatives that empower communities to take an active role in safeguarding their natural heritage. Where wildlife and livestock share the same space, coexistence is both a necessity and a challenge. Here, young community members—often referred to as Morans—have become the frontline defenders of conservation. Trained and equipped, they carry out regular patrols on foot and by vehicle, monitoring wildlife and collecting vital ecological data.

This data-driven approach has been a game changer. Using tools like the Spatial Monitoring and Reporting Tool (SMART), community teams have covered over 11,000 kilometers in the past year alone. They track key indicators such as the proportion of juvenile zebras within the population—a critical measure of recovery.

We aim for at least 30 percent of the population to be juveniles. Today, we are encouraged to see this figure rise to approximately 37 percent. This is more than just a statistic—it is a clear signal that the population is not only stabilizing but growing.

However, conservation cannot succeed in isolation from human needs. That is why our work also focuses on sustainable rangeland management. By collaborating closely with herders, we promote grazing practices that support both livestock and wildlife, helping to reduce land degradation and competition for resources.

The recent 2022–2023 drought was a stark reminder of the challenges posed by climate change. It tested the resilience of both communities and ecosystems, underscoring the importance of preparedness and adaptive strategies in conservation planning.

Looking ahead, our commitment remains strong. We will continue to deepen community engagement, strengthen monitoring systems, and respond proactively to emerging threats. Partnerships—like those fostered through the Lewa Safari Marathon—will remain essential in sustaining this progress.

The recovery of the Grevy’s zebra is proof that when communities are empowered, conservation thrives. It is a model of success that offers valuable lessons—not just for Kenya, but for the world.

Our goal is clear: to see thriving zebra populations, resilient landscapes, and empowered communities living in harmony with nature.

Together, we can secure the future of this remarkable species for generations to come.