A research was done in the population neighboring the LUMO Conservation area. Researchers sought to determine the involvement of youths and women in wildlife conservation matters especially activities that involve LUMO Community Wildlife Conservancy. A report termed the “SAGE Report” indicated that youths were not that involved in conservation activities.
Youths had low representation the Board of Trustees overseeing the management of LUMO Wildlife Trust and this was a recurring factor in the member ranches that make up the LUMO Conservancy. We had an engagement with youths to present the findings outlined in the SAGE Report and also have a discussion on how the situation could be amended.
Youth involvement in wildlife conservation plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of our planet. As the custodians of tomorrow, young people bring fresh perspectives, boundless energy, and a genuine passion for safeguarding wildlife and the environment.
Engaging youth in conservation efforts yields numerous benefits:
- Innovative Ideas: Young minds often think outside the box, introducing creative and innovative approaches to conservation challenges.
- Technology Utilization: With their proficiency in technology and social media, youth can amplify conservation messages and reach wider audiences.
- Inspiring Advocacy: Youth involvement inspires others, creating a ripple effect in raising awareness and promoting positive action.
- Long-Term Commitment: Encouraging youth to participate in conservation fosters a sense of responsibility and commitment, ensuring sustainable efforts for years to come.
- Education and Awareness: Youth involvement provides opportunities to educate and inform peers and communities about the importance of wildlife conservation.
- Empowerment and Skill-Building: Involvement in wildlife conservation empowers youth, teaching them leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
- Preserving Biodiversity: Engaged youth contribute to preserving biodiversity, protecting endangered species, and maintaining ecosystems’ delicate balance.
Youths appreciated the fact that they are the future of LUMO Conservancy and we spent hours with them identifying some of the key areas that needed to be addressed and what had to be done to make sure that their inclusion is accommodated on every issue concerning LUMO moving forward. They all agreed that all this had to begin from that collective interest that they have expressed on matters regarding the conservancy activities and that they all had to make a commitment in following the due process in place to get enlisted as ranch members.
A liaison committee was formed as a first step in ensuring that youths are up-to-date with all the activities in the conservancy. The committee was tasked with responsibility of bridging the gap between the youths and the LUMO Conservancy board and management team.