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Livestock
farmers residing within and around the Burunge Wildlife Management Area (WMA)
in Babati District, Manyara Region, have received reinforced wire enclosures to
protect their animals from predators, particularly lions and hyenas, at night.
The
protective enclosures, known as "Boma Hai," were constructed by the
Chem Chem Conservation and Tourism Foundation, which operates within the area
situated between Tarangire National Park and Lake Manyara National Park. This
initiative is part of the foundation's strategy to mitigate conflicts between
wildlife and livestock.
Speaking
at the handover ceremony, Babati District Commissioner Lazaro Twange emphasized
that the project aligns with government directives aimed at reducing
human-wildlife conflicts. Twange, represented at the event by Babati District
Administrative Secretary Khalfani Malipula, lauded the conservation efforts and
acknowledged the persistent issue of livestock predation, which the new
enclosures aim to address.
"The
launch of these enclosures, coinciding with World Ranger Day celebrations, is
expected to relieve residents from the burden of sleeping outdoors to protect
their livestock," said Twange.
John
Bagary, a resident of Vilima Vitatu village, expressed relief after receiving
his enclosure. "Up until recently, I lost five cows and eight goats to
lions. I used to sleep outside to guard my cattle, but now I am grateful for
this solar-lit enclosure that will deter lions from jumping in," he said.
Peter
Martin, another resident from Ngoley village, thanked Chem Chem and the
government for the enclosures, noting that they can now sleep peacefully.
Napendaeli
Wazoeli, the Community Development Projects Manager at Chem Chem, stated that
the enclosures were built in collaboration with wildlife rangers and were
handed over during the World Ranger Day celebrations. Each enclosure cost over
Sh 2.6 million, and to date, 15 enclosures have been constructed to address
human-wildlife conflicts.
During the celebrations, Chem Chem also distributed animal deterrent equipment to residents, including fireworks, vuvuzelas, chili pepper, and special torches designed to scare away wildlife.
Erick
Lilayoni, Chairman of Burunge WMA, commended Chem Chem for their substantial
support to the community and conservation efforts. "Today, we saw all
rangers protecting this area receive medals and wildlife deterrent equipment.
We believe this is just a continuation of Chem Chem's commitment to
conservation in our area," Lilayoni stated.
This
initiative by Chem Chem Foundation marks a significant step in safeguarding
both livestock and human lives, fostering coexistence between communities and
wildlife, and ensuring the continued attractiveness of the Burunge WMA to
tourists.
