As the vibrant first few months of Children in the Wilderness (CITW) Tanzania’ operations have unfolded, the regional program’s Doctor Tipay has been a whirlwind of action and inspiration, driven by an unwavering commitment to uplifting lives and protecting Tanzania’s precious wildlife. During these transformative early months of implementing CITW in the country, he has embarked on exciting educational initiatives, engaged local communities in vital conservation workshops, and cultivated the next generation of environmental stewards.
“Our commitment to protecting both the environment and the communities that share it is reflected in our strategic approach, which cuts across Wilderness’ three key Impact pillars: Educate, Empower, and Protect”, says Doctor.
EDUCATING Future Conservation Leaders
Education is at the heart of CITW Tanzania’s mission. Our Eco-Mentor training program serves as a foundational element, preparing educators to inspire the next generation of conservation leaders. The training provides mentors with innovative methods and resources that make Eco Club activities engaging and impactful for students.
Our Eco-Clubs operate in five schools near Lake Manyara National Park and the western Serengeti, impacting over 4,000 students and teachers. These clubs not only focus on environmental education but also offer hands-on projects like vegetable gardens, tree nurseries, and reforestation efforts. Through initiatives like the Tippy Tap handwashing stations and various community clean-up activities, students gain practical experience while fostering a sense of stewardship towards their environment.
Each Eco-Club is home to around 20 dedicated members who actively participate in projects that enhance their communities and local ecosystems. Reflecting our commitment to all, including special needs students, these initiatives create inclusive environments where children learn the importance of conservation in a fun and engaging way.
EMPOWERING Self-Sustaining Communities
CITW Tanzania believes in establishing a strong foundation for self-sustaining communities. Our empowerment programs focus on fostering sustainable practices and addressing socio-economic challenges.
Our Women’s Empowerment and Permaculture Hub initiative, launched in collaboration with Wild Survivors, aims to elevate women’s roles in conservation efforts, particularly in beekeeping—a sector often dominated by men. By offering vital training in sustainable livelihoods, entrepreneurship, and community engagement, we empower women to become leaders in environmental advocacy, thus fostering a greater communal awareness of conservation issues.
In parallel, our community conservation workshops are instrumental in building capacity, equipping participants with essential knowledge to manage wildlife responsibly. The growing attendance at these workshops demonstrates an increasing desire for collaboration and a proactive approach to addressing human-wildlife conflict at the community level.
Fostering PROTECTION through Harmonious Coexistence
Conservation hospitality is a vital component of our mission at CITW Tanzania. By unlocking resources to mitigate human-wildlife conflict, we help protect both local habitats and the communities that depend on them. Over the past five months (May to September), our efforts have intensified as we implement various educational initiatives and community outreach programs designed to address the pressing issue of human-wildlife conflict.
By collaborating with local communities, we work to educate the younger generation and residents on sustainable practices, and the ecological importance of wildlife. Our partnership with TANAPA, through the “Ujirani Mwema” initiative, equips communities with knowledge about wildlife behavior and coexistence strategies. Monthly workshops have successfully raised awareness and engaged community members, with attendance doubling from 10-15 participants per session to around 25-30 today. This shift reflects a growing understanding of the critical balance needed for protecting both wildlife and human interests.
Together for Tomorrow: Celebrating Our Collective Impact
As we reflect on the remarkable achievements of the past months, we must extend our deepest gratitude to our parent company Wilderness, and Wayo Africa. Their unwavering support has been instrumental in driving our mission forward. From providing essential resources like vehicles for field visits to facilitating unforgettable safaris, they have created avenues for deeper engagement with the natural world. The safari guides, with their wealth of knowledge and passion, inspire our children and help them envision a future where they can realize their full potential through conservation.
This collaborative spirit extends to the guests who travel with Wilderness and Wayo Africa, and who take the time to volunteer on our programs. Your involvement enriches the lives of the children and fosters connections that transcend borders. Each act of participation, whether it’s through sharing stories, lending a helping hand, or engaging in community activities, leaves a lasting impact that ripples through the lives of the young conservationists we nurture.
To everyone who has contributed in any capacity—thank you. Your support is not just appreciated; it’s transformative. Together, we are building a legacy of empowerment and sustainability for future generations. We invite you to share your experiences and the impact of your involvement, inspiring others to join us on this incredible journey. Together, let’s continue to make a profound difference in the lives of children and the preservation of Tanzania’s breathtaking wildlife and ecosystems.
Read on as Doctor reflects on CITW Tanzania’s already impactful journey, showcasing the inspirational stories, achievements, and community transformations that are shaping a sustainable future for both people and wildlife. Dive into the highlights below and see how together, we are making a difference!
EDUCATE
Improving access to learning
Building the next generation of conservation leaders is the best way to sustain the future conservation of the wilderness.
PROJECTS & PROGRAMS IN THE SCHOOLS
Eco-Clubs
• Overview
Our Eco-Club program is thriving, with 80 passionate members dedicated to fostering environmental stewardship and conservation awareness. This dynamic initiative not only equips students with essential knowledge about their natural surroundings but also encourages active participation and community sharing.
• Field Trips and Hands-On Learning
In preparation for the official launch of CITW Tanzania, Eco-Club members engaged in more than three educational field trips to various national parks. Since the program’s launch, we’ve integrated one field trip per term into the Eco-Club curriculum, thereby enriching students’ experiential learning opportunities. Recently, they embarked on their first trip of the new term, where they explored local ecosystems and learned first-hand about conservation efforts in action. These excursions are essential for deepening students’ understanding and appreciation of their environment.
• Growing Interest and Knowledge-sharing
We are delighted to see an increasing number of students eager to join the Eco-Clubs and participate in lessons. As part of our philosophy of collaborative learning, we encourage Eco-Club members to share their newfound knowledge with peers outside the club. This peer-sharing initiative not only reinforces what they have learned, but also helps to cultivate a broader community interest in environmental issues.
• Monitoring and Evaluation through CHEAKS Testing
To effectively assess the impact of our Eco-Club program, we administer the Children’s Environmental Attitude and Knowledge Scale (CHEAKS) test at the end of each term. The first test was conducted at the conclusion of the first term, providing a baseline for evaluating students’ environmental attitudes and knowledge. We plan to conduct a follow-up assessment at the end of the third term. This systematic approach allows us to monitor growth and efficacy, ensuring continuous improvement of our educational initiatives.
Eco-Vegetable Garden & Meal Program
The Eco-Vegetable Garden established at Manyara Secondary School represents a significant step forward in promoting both nutrition and education among our partner schools. This initiative is designed not only to support a healthy Meal Program but also to nurture an understanding of sustainable farming practices among students.
• Supporting Healthy Nutrition
One of the primary goals of the Eco-Vegetable Garden is to enhance the nutritional intake of students, as meals remain a substantial challenge in many schools. By incorporating fresh vegetables into the Meal Program, we aim to ensure that students have access to balanced, nutritious food, which is essential for their engagement, cognitive development, and overall well-being. At CITW Tanzania, we believe that children learn best when their basic nutritional needs are met; consequently, we strive to provide opportunities for students to participate in our programs with full bellies, ensuring they are mentally and physically prepared to learn.
• A Hands-On Learning Environment
The Eco-Vegetable Garden serves as an invaluable educational resource, transforming the schoolyard into a vibrant learning ground for sustainable agriculture. Students at Manyara Secondary School actively engage in the processes of planting, nurturing, and harvesting vegetables. This practical involvement not only cultivates their agricultural skills but also fosters a profound sense of responsibility for their environment.
The initiative has also attracted collaboration from our partner schools, including Jangwani and Migungani B Primary Schools, which participate in the activities at the eco-garden. This collaborative effort enriches the learning experience for all students involved, reinforcing the sense of community and shared purpose.
Through this hands-on experience, students gain important lessons about environmental stewardship, food security, and the significance of healthy eating. By working together across schools, they learn to appreciate the value of collective efforts in promoting sustainable practices, ensuring that these crucial skills and knowledge are passed down to future generations.
• Broader Community Impact
While the primary focus of the Eco-Vegetable Garden is on Manyara Secondary School, its benefits extend to other primary partner schools as well. By sharing surplus produce and knowledge, we foster collaboration and community spirit, encouraging younger students to see the value of nutrition and sustainability.
Scholarship Program
• Our Scholarship Program is a vital component of our mission, empowering children to complete their education and transforming their lives in the process. Providing a child with the opportunity to pursue their education is not just a gift; it is a life-changing investment in their future and the future of their community.
The Scholarship Program offers financial support for necessary school fees, ensuring that students can access the education they deserve. In addition to tuition, we strive to assist with essential items such as school uniforms, stationery, and other expenses that can burden families. By alleviating these financial pressures, we enable students to focus on their studies and fully engage in the academic environment.
• In many of the regions where we operate, primary education is offered free or at a minimal cost. However, secondary education often comes with significant fees that many families cannot afford. As a result, a considerable number of children only complete their primary education, while some may never have the opportunity to attend school at all. Currently, we proudly support six students through sponsorship, and an additional 20 receive assistance directly from CITW. However, our commitment does not stop here; we are continually striving to ensure that all children in our programs have the chance to attend school without the burden of worrying about school supplies and related expenses.
• To promote our scholarship program, we are excited to collaborate with How to Draw a Lion, an initiative dedicated to providing art classes for children, raising funds for their education through global art shows, and creating awareness about child welfare and conservation. Recently, How to Draw a Lion brought an incredible and inspiring experience to the Manyara Secondary School Eco-Club in Tanzania. For many of these young students, it was their first time ever holding a paintbrush, which opened up a world of creativity and expression. This artistic journey encouraged them to think outside the box, unlocking new ideas while deepening their understanding of vital conservation lessons taught in their Eco Club. You can play a vital role in shaping a brighter and more sustainable future for these talented young artists by purchasing one of their framed paintings today, directly supporting their education and empowering them to make a lasting impact in their communities.
Teachers’ support
• At CITW Tanzania, we recognize the importance of supporting teachers to ensure a high-quality education for students, especially in our partner schools where the student-teacher ratio can be challenging. To address this, we strive to equip educators with the necessary tools and resources, including contributing towards the salaries of some teachers, which eases financial burdens and allows them to focus on their important role. Additionally, we have provided essential materials such as stationery and classroom supply to enhance the learning experience. By closely collaborating with schools, we empower teachers to inspire their students, ultimately fostering a more dynamic and resource-rich learning environment that benefits both educators and learners alike.
Tree Nursery (Mto wa Mbu)
• The Tree Nursery located in Mto wa Mbu is a thriving initiative dedicated to reforestation and environmental education. Below are some key highlights of the nursery’s impact and contributions to the community and partner schools:
– Extensive Nursery Capacity: The nursery boasts over 10,000 trees, providing a diverse selection of native species for planting and restoration efforts.
– Eco-Club Learning Grounds: It serves as an active learning environment for Eco-Club students, offering hands-on experience in tree care, sustainability practices, and the importance of biodiversity.
– Support for Partner Schools: More than 3,000 trees have been planted across our partner schools, contributing to greener campuses and fostering environmental awareness among students.
– Community Outreach: In addition, over 1,000 trees have been donated to other rural schools, promoting reforestation efforts and enhancing school environments in under-served areas.
– Empowerment of Community Members: The nursery empowers local community members by providing training and resources, enabling two individuals to take the lead in the care and management of the nursery. This initiative not only supports sustainable practices but also fosters economic opportunities within the community.
Other
• Every last Saturday of the month, we conduct clean-up activities in schools, communities, and local parks, as mandated by the government. At CITW Tanzania, we are committed to not only fulfilling this requirement but also actively engaging more schools and community members to participate. Together, we strive to foster a sense of collective responsibility for our environment and create cleaner, healthier spaces for everyone.
Eco-Mentors
The Heart of Our Eco-Clubs: Celebrating Our Dedicated Eco-Mentors
At the core of CITW Tanzania’s Eco-Club program are our remarkable Eco-Mentors—teachers who embody passion, dedication, and a deep commitment to nurturing the next generation of conservation leaders. These mentors are the secret ingredients that make our program not only fun and engaging for children, but also transformative in shaping their understanding of environmental stewardship and community responsibility.
Each year, CITW conducts specialized training for our Eco-Mentors, providing them with the tools and resources they need to inspire and engage the students in their care. This training equips them with innovative teaching methods, experiential learning techniques, and a wealth of knowledge about conservation practices. Our mentors are taught how to create dynamic and interactive sessions that spark curiosity and foster a love for nature among the children, ensuring that each Eco Club meeting is filled with laughter, discovery, and learning.
The impact of these dedicated teachers extends far beyond the classroom. They work tirelessly to cultivate an environment where every child feels valued, encouraged, and motivated to explore their potential. By integrating hands-on activities, such as gardening, wildlife observation, and community projects, Eco Mentors not only make learning enjoyable but also instil vital life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving.
Through their guidance, Eco Mentors empower these children to envision themselves as active participants in their communities and as future conservation stewards. Students learn to appreciate the natural world, understand the importance of sustainability, and recognize their crucial role in protecting local ecosystems. This holistic approach not only develops their knowledge but also fosters a sense of responsibility and connection to their environment.
As we reflect on the immense contribution of our Eco-Mentors, we are reminded that their hard work and dedication are pivotal to the success of the Eco-Club program. They are role models and champions of conservation, inspiring young minds to dream big and take action to keep their communities thriving. At CITW Tanzania, we celebrate and support these extraordinary educators, knowing that their influence will resonate through the lives of the children and the communities they serve for generations to come.
Our Volunteer Program: Making Lasting Connections in 2024
We are thrilled to share the launch of our new volunteering program in 2024, which kicked off with two inspiring volunteers, Beverly and Steven. These adventurous tourists spent a week with CITW in the beautiful areas of Karatu and Mto wa Mbu, making a meaningful impact on our community and its vibrant youth.
From the moment they arrived, Beverly and Steven were warmly welcomed by the local community, experiencing a rich tapestry of cultures, religions, and traditions. Their days were filled with joy as they engaged with the spirited children of the Eco-Club. Together, they baked delicious challah, worked on establishing an eco-vegetable garden, and shared stories of their backgrounds, discovering common dreams and aspirations that connected them across continents.
Throughout their week, Beverly and Steven found that the experience was as transformative for them as it was for the children. The bonds they formed with the students, teachers, and the broader community transcended any boundaries, illustrating the profound connections that can be created through shared experiences.
Reflecting on their time, Beverly and Steven shared, “This week was a journey of unexpected encounters, deep conversations, and connections that will stay with us forever. It truly does take a village to raise a child, and we are so grateful to have been part of this incredible village, if only for a short time.”
The enthusiasm and commitment shown by our volunteers highlight the positive impact that individuals can bring, enriching not only the lives of the children but also their own. As we continue to grow our volunteering program, we are excited about the possibility of creating more meaningful experiences that empower both our community and our volunteers.
EMPOWER
We’re building a conservation economy with empowerment programs that work to create self-sustaining communities
Empowering Communities through Conservation Workshops: Addressing Human-Wildlife Conflict in Partnership with TANAPA
CITW Tanzania has been actively conducting monthly community conservation workshops focused on addressing human-wildlife conflict in partnership with local schools and neighbouring communities. Collaborating closely with the outreach department of the Tanzania National Park Authority (TANAPA), specifically the “Ujirani Mwema” initiative, these workshops aim to foster understanding and co-operation among community members regarding the challenges posed by wildlife interactions. The workshops cover critical topics such as sustainable practices, wildlife behaviour, and conflict mitigation strategies, equipping participants with knowledge and tools to coexist peacefully with their wildlife neighbours.
The rationale behind these community conservation workshops is to empower local residents, enabling them to take active roles in wildlife management and conservation. By fostering dialogue and sharing experiences, CITW Tanzania and TANAPA work to build a sense of stewardship over local natural resources, helping residents understand the importance of wildlife conservation in maintaining healthy ecosystems and livelihoods. The gradual increase in attendance at these workshops reflects a growing recognition of these issues within the communities. For instance, between January and April 2024, the maximum participation was about 10 to 15 members per session, but today, the numbers have risen to approximately 25-30 attendees. This trend not only highlights increased awareness but also a strong desire among community members to learn and engage in conservation efforts.
The small yet significant impact we observe through these workshops includes a heightened understanding of wildlife dynamics and a shift in attitudes toward conservation. As more community members participate, we begin to see local leaders emerging who advocate for sustainable practices within their communities. Additionally, the workshops help establish a network of informed individuals who can share their knowledge and experiences, further spreading awareness of human-wildlife conflict issues. Continuous support from TANAPA and active participation by community members bolster the effectiveness of these initiatives, contributing to a collective effort to mitigate wildlife conflicts and promote coexistence. As our workshops continue to grow in attendance and engagement, we remain optimistic about the positive changes in community attitudes towards wildlife conservation and the collaborative efforts to safeguard local ecosystems.
- Women’s Empowerment and Permaculture Hub
The burgeoning Women’s Empowerment and Permaculture Hub in the western Serengeti, spearheaded by Wild Survivors in collaboration with CITW Tanzania, aims to foster sustainable development by empowering local women through innovative training and community engagement initiatives. This initiative recognizes women’s crucial roles in fostering environmental stewardship and aims to address the gender imbalance in beekeeping—a predominantly male-led sector in Tanzania. The Hub will focus on training women in sustainable livelihoods, including beekeeping and permaculture, while enhancing community ties and promoting biodiversity.
The project has several key objectives, including economic empowerment through entrepreneurship training, community engagement to raise awareness about conservation issues, and fostering women’s leadership in environmental advocacy. Through hands-on training and workshops, the Hub seeks to create a supportive ecosystem that nurtures both individual skills and group efforts toward sustainable practices. The expected impact includes increased household incomes for participating women, stronger community connections, and improved conservation outcomes, such as reduced human-wildlife conflict.
Key components of the initiative will involve establishing infrastructure like a permaculture garden, offering specialized workshops, and setting up practical training on water management and beekeeping techniques. An integral aspect includes measuring the project’s success through defined metrics, such as the number of women starting new enterprises or the adoption of sustainable practices in the community.
The collaborative effort between Wild Survivors and CITW Tanzania, reinforced by strong local support, aims to establish a model of sustainability that uplifts women and cultivates community resilience against the challenges posed by wildlife conflicts. By directly addressing both economic and environmental needs, the Women’s Empowerment and Permaculture Hub strives to create a lasting impact in the western Serengeti, ensuring that local communities thrive alongside their natural landscapes.
