Human-wildlife conflict is a huge challenge across Africa, and in Tanzania it is an issue particularly prevalent between the Maasai and lions who find an easy target in their livestock, which is a primary source of wealth and income for the Maasai. In the Ngorongoro Conservation Area the Maasai have lived alongside wildlife for decades, but as human populations increase, so the conflicts and the pressure mounts, sadly resulting in the demise of lion populations. KopeLion was founded in 2011 to address the issues in the area around the Ngorongoro Crater. The reality we face is that lions have begun to disappear entirely from their former ranges, which has resulted in the separation of the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti populations, which means that the genetic integrity of the lion populations is compromised. KopeLion works hard to try and change this trend by employing former lion hunters and equipping them with the skills needed to actively protect the remaining lions and reduce conflicts with their local communities and villages.

We support our local 'ilkuchuti' (lion guardian) called Rumas, who works in the area around Entamanu Ngorongoro. Ruma's role involves moving around the community to the local bomas and villages to report on any lion conflict, or lion sightings so that the team at KopeLion can intervene if necessary. He also educates these communities on the value of protecting the lion population, and most importantly on ways in which they can protect their livestock better without having to take extreme measures. We hope to be able to continue the support of Rumas work, and in time get more involved in implementing the work of KopeLion in the area. 

Would you like to know more? If you're going to stay with us at Entamanu Ngorongoro please get in touch and we can discuss how you can learn more while you are in camp.