Water scarcity and prolonged drought pose significant challenges for the Kamungi Conservancy members. Recognizing this pressing issue, in 2023, Tsavo Trust partnered with USAID and the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) to address the community’s water needs. Together, they generously donated 110 dam liners, each with capacity of 60,000 litres, and 28 water tanks, each capable of holding 3,000 litres. These collaborative efforts aim to provide sustainable solutions to alleviate water scarcity and enhance resilience within Kamungi Conservancy.
The impact of this intervention unfolded during the recent El NiƱo rains, where the Kamungi Community successfully collected approximately 6,684,000 litres of water. The water collected is expected to sustain the 828 beneficiaries for at least three months beyond the rainy season, providing a crucial source of water sustenance and stability.

Photo 1: Local community members fetching water from a dam liner at a household in Kamungi Conservancy
But the impact transcends mere survival. The provision of clean, safe water to 28 households via water tanks has significantly elevated health and hygiene standards within the community. Furthermore, the installation of dam liners for water pans has empowered 110 households to harness surface runoff water, serving multiple purposes such as preventing soil erosion, bolstering food security and nutrition through home gardens, and aiding environmental restoration by nurturing tree seedlings.
The installation of 110 dam liners and 28 water tanks significantly reduced long distances travelled by the local community members to fetch water. In addition, the damliners and water tanks have helped to reduce pressure on the Kamungi Conservancy borehole.
Through the Conservancy model championed by Tsavo Trust, the Kamungi Community continues to be empowered, paving the way for a win-win solution that benefits both the local community and wildlife conservation efforts. It’s a story of hope, resilience, and the profound impact that unity and collaboration can have on creating lasting change.
The significance of these initiatives was underscored during the handover ceremony of the 28 water tanks, which saw distinguished guests from the Government of Kenya, Makueni County Government, and Kenya Wildlife Service in attendance. This gathering exemplified the power of collective action in addressing critical challenges and served as a testament to the transformative potential of collaboration.

Photo 2: Handover ceremony for 28 water tanks in Kamungi Conservancy on 1st December 2023
As we reflect on the success story of Kamungi Conservancy, let it serve as a source of inspiration and motivation for us all to contribute to the creation of a brighter and more sustainable future. Together, we can make a difference.Top of Form