The Mara Naboisho Conservancy is based on an innovative model, comprised of a governance structure that secures an equitable and sustainable partnership between Maasai landowners, tourism operators, and conservation interests. Basecamp was instrumental in establishing this important model of conservancy.

Naboisho’s model aims to protect and preserve both the biodiversity and the socio-cultural heritage of the Maasai Mara, while generating income and creating jobs for the local population.  Tourism is the economic driver.  Naboisho enables the Maasai to continue their traditional way of life as it allows for controlled grazing within the conservancy during periods of drought.  This limits overgrazing and maintains the longevity of livestock farming, a significant aspect of the Maasai culture.

The  Maasai Mara faces three main challenges;  the Naboisho Conservancy model address each one:

1. Threats and damages to the ecosystem (wildlife and vegetation) due to fencing, over grazing and increased farming.
2. Poverty of the local Maasai population in the surrounding areas as the pre-existing conservancy models failed in reaching enough local people with economic benefits in the form of land-lease payments, employment and grazing land.
3. Exclusion of the local Maasai from decision-making regarding conservation and tourism related activities on their land.

Lasting, Positive Impacts of Naboisho

• Stable Income: Naboisho provides stable income for 554 Maasai landowner households and over 300 jobs, indirectly benefiting more than 10,000 local people.  The increased income for landowners is up to three times from earned land-lease fees and additional income from employment within the conservancy:
• Wildlife Protection: Naboisho’s model encourages co-existence between local communities and wildlife, thus reducing human-wildlife conflicts. Since the formation of the conservancy in 2010, there has been a dramatic increase in wildlife. For example, Naboisho is now believed to have one of the highest lion densities in Africa and is home to over 320 bird species.
• Improved Quality of Life: Naboisho programs support access to clean water, access to renewable energy, education programs, and the promotion of women’s economic activities.