Development Model

The tendency within the majority of Kenya’s community-based conservation initiatives is to focus primarily on generating economic benefits for the community through eco-tourism initiatives. The real need to establish a solid foundation for local governance and sustainability of that initiative comes second. As a result, community participation from the outset is largely passive and communities tend to become over-dependent on long-term support for their livelihoods from government and NGOs.

A Different Model
The Northern Rangelands Trust community development model (NRT model) is different; it is not based on communities but is led by communities. The goals of each Community Conservancy are driven by its community’s needs and aspirations. The NRT model works on the principles of active community management and high standards of governance, achieved by strengthening community-led institutions. The NRT model creates a foundation for investment and fosters longstanding independence. Achieving this model is a gradual, long-term process that requires continued support from the Trust through the different cycles of growth of each Conservancy.

Tools for Effective Management
The NRT model is particularly strong because it builds real capacity by assisting communities in acquiring the appropriate tools for effective management. These resources include: radio communications equipment, a direct communication channel, weapons (dependent on government policy), uniforms, binoculars, GPS units, camping equipment for mobile security teams, computer and office resources, airstrips and other infrastructure necessary for the effective operations of a Community Conservancy.

Financial Management Capacity
Another core focus of the NRT model is to build financial management capacity. Community Conservancies operate their own bank accounts, prepare their budgets based on a standardised system developed by the Northern Rangelands Trust, and present their financial statements to their community on a regular basis. This provides Community Conservancies with legitimate control and ownership of their work.

The end goal of the Northern Rangelands Trust is to down-scale its role in developing Community Conservancies once they become institutionally and financially independent. The Trust will evolve into a technical advisory body maintained by a membership fee contributed by its constituent members