Mkomazi, Six Rivers Africa join forces for wildlife protection

Same. Mkomazi National Park, in partnership with Six Rivers Africa, has launched an extensive programme to address conservation challenges affecting wildlife in the park.

Speaking at the launch of the Veterinary Support Project held on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, which included the handover of a specialised vehicle, medical supplies, and medicines, the Tanzania National Parks Authority (Tanapa) Deputy Conservation Commissioner, Steria Ndaga, said the project would enhance the capacity to protect and safeguard wildlife health in the park.

Ms Ndaga, represented by Tanapa Assistant Conservation Commissioner Sonia Lyimo, highlighted the ongoing challenges facing wildlife, including diseases, human-wildlife conflict, poaching, and the impacts of climate change, such as drought.

The project, she noted, would enable rapid intervention in providing essential services to wildlife.

"Our wildlife face numerous threats, including diseases, poaching, human-wildlife conflict, and climate change, which lead to droughts. This project will help us protect and improve the health of wildlife, ensuring they live in better conditions," said Ms Lyimo.

She added that the project would also assist in treating injured wildlife, preventing disease outbreaks, and enhancing the ecosystem’s overall health.

Additionally, the programme will facilitate research into wildlife diseases, implement preventative health measures, and ensure high-quality service delivery.

The Same District Commissioner, Ms Kasilda Mgeni expressed optimism that the project would bring lasting success to the park, stressing the shared responsibility of preserving this natural heritage for future generations.

"We hope the collaboration between Six Rivers Africa and the Elephant Conservation Organisation (ECO) will drive positive change in Mkomazi, strengthening wildlife health services through the resources handed over today, including medical tools, medicines, and supplies," she said.

"These resources will allow our service providers to deliver swift, effective wildlife healthcare, ensuring the ongoing health of our wildlife,” he added.

Six Rivers Africa's executive director, Mr Brandon Kemp, emphasised the importance of their partnership with the Tanzanian government to safeguard conservation efforts.

"The vehicle support we’ve provided today will assist the government's sustainable development initiatives in national parks and facilitate service delivery for wildlife protection," he said.

Mkomazi National Park’s acting chief conservation officer, Mr Frank Sangarufu, revealed that the project, implemented by Tanapa and Mkomazi National Park in collaboration with Six Rivers Africa, is worth over Sh140 million.