Stephen’s Sustainable Journey In Kamungi Conservancy

The incredible journey of Stephen Muia Kisonde within Kamungi Conservancy stands as a compelling example of the remarkable transformations driven by eco-conscious practices, supported by Tsavo Trust Projects and Interventions.

At the age of 68, Stephen, a committed member of Kamungi Conservancy for over five years, stands as a direct beneficiary of Tsavo Trust’s visionary initiatives. In June 2023, armed with expertise in climate-smart agriculture and permaculture techniques, Stephen established a thriving kitchen garden.

Employing innovative methods such as sack gardens and organic manure, Stephen’s garden produces an array of nutrient-rich vegetables, including vibrant kales, succulent tomatoes, and fiery chili peppers. By harvesting these vegetables twice a week, he ensures not only food security for his family of nine but also significant cost

savings that would otherwise be spent on purchasing vegetables. This financial relief meets fundamental needs, from meals to healthcare, clothing, and education.

However, Stephen’s journey doesn’t end there. With the provision of a dam liner by Tsavo Trust, Stephen is set to expand his kitchen garden during the current rainy season. This liner allows him to collect surface water, furthering his self-sufficiency journey by generating surplus produce for sale and an additional income stream.

Central to the success of Stephen’s thriving garden are permaculture practices, emphasizing efficient water usage, mixed cropping, and biological pest control. These practices minimize external inputs while maximizing sustainability. Stephen generously shares the fruits of his labor with his neighbors, extending the benefits of his successful methods.

Motivated by his achievements, Stephen ventured into tree nurseries and beekeeping, nurturing 700 indigenous tree seedlings, and maintaining 22 beehives, all meticulously crafted by his own hands.

A significant aspect of Stephen’s journey is his adoption of Tsavo Trust’s 10% fence plan. This innovative approach, implemented across 16 households in Kamungi Conservancy’s wildlife-friendly zone, has proven to be entirely effective in deterring crop-raiding elephants from farmlands. The results are evident. During the last harvest, Stephen achieved an impressive yield, including 630 kilograms of cowpeas, 360 kilograms of green grams, 180 kilograms of sorghum, and 110 kilograms of pigeon peas. This substantial yield ensured his family’s sustenance for a year and generated a noteworthy income of KES 40,500. Additionally, the diverse tree plantings within the fenced area, including lemon, mango, pixie, and pawpaw trees, further enhance food security and potential supplementary income.

Stephen’s transformative journey, supported by Tsavo Trust initiatives in Kamungi Conservancy, epitomizes the impact of dedicated interventions. His personal growth and substantial contributions to conservation exemplify the thriving coexistence between communities and wildlife. A beacon of hope, Stephen’s story showcases the profound impact of Tsavo Trust projects, inspiring others to champion harmonious conservation and community development, ensuring a sustainable future for all.