In July 2025, Tsavo Trust, in partnership with the Makueni County Government and with generous support from the Painted Wolf Foundation, led a successful rabies vaccination campaign across 12 villages in Kamungi Conservancy, located along the northern boundary of Tsavo West National Park.
The campaign was informed by a Tsavo Trust household survey, which revealed that 65% of households in Kamungi own domestic dogs, many of which had either never been vaccinated or had not received a rabies shot in over a year. The campaign goal was clear: reduce the risk of rabies transmission to domestic animals, people, and wildlife by offering free and accessible vaccination services to the local community members.
Over just two days, the veterinary teams achieved outstanding results: 594 domestic animals were vaccinated, including 513 dogs, 54 donkeys, and 27 cats. This represents more than double the number of domestic animals vaccinated in 2024, a clear proof that awareness is growing, and the program is gaining momentum.
Photo 1: A Makueni County Government Veterinary Officer vaccinates a puppy during the rabies vaccination campaign in Kamungi Conservancy, July 2025
“I’m truly grateful to Tsavo Trust for organizing this vaccination. I’ve had my dog for five years, and this is the first time it has ever been vaccinated. Bringing the vaccination centre right into our village made it so easy, I didn’t have to travel or spend any money. This is a big win for all of us.”— Mutheu Stanley, Kamungi Conservancy resident.
This milestone reflects the growing trust between Tsavo Trust and local communities and highlights the power of strong partnerships in advancing both conservation and public health. With plans to sustain annual vaccinations and community education, Tsavo Trust is on track to achieve the WHO-recommended 70% rabies herd immunity, building a safer, healthier future for people, domestic animals, and wildlife.
Photo 2: Tsavo Trust’s Chief Community Officer presents vaccination certificates to a community member after the successful vaccination of his three dogs, July 2025
