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The project represents a significant initial step in a broader conservation effort aimed at protecting biodiversity, fostering sustainable development, and empowering local communities to actively participate in ecosystem preservation. This initiative directly responds to the World Heritage Committee Decision 45 COM 7B.7 and aligns with UNESCO’s global commitment to preserving sites of Outstanding Universal Value (OUV).

The three-day engagement commenced with a stakeholder briefing session where key logistical partners, including the National Museums of Kenya (NMK), Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), and the Baringo County Government, convened to review the agenda, harmonize strategic objectives, and coordinate stakeholder outreach. Discussions emphasized the urgent need to address habitat loss, implement Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), and integrate Indigenous and Local Knowledge (ILK) into policy and planning frameworks.

The participants visited the northern shores of Lake Bogoria, where ecological field assessments were conducted under the guidance of UNESCO wildlife expert Dr. Oliver Nasirwa and environmental specialist Mr. Peter Mwangi. The assessments revealed several ecological concerns, including a decline in algae populations, threatening flamingo habitats, rising water levels that have submerged infrastructure, and an increase in human-wildlife conflict due to expanding settlements.

A visit to Sandai Farms near River Waseges offered further insights into the intersection between agriculture and environmental sustainability. Discussions identified critical issues such as river water diversion and chemical runoff, which are accelerating environmental degradation. However, several community-led responses such as reforestation efforts and proposals for improved water management systems highlighted local resilience and proactive engagement in conservation.

During the community workshop, Ms. Nancy Korir, Chief Officer for Tourism and Wildlife in Baringo County, in her opening remarks, reaffirmed the County Government’s commitment to supporting sustainable conservation efforts. Further discussions during the workshop highlighted the importance of integrating Indigenous and Local Knowledge (ILK) with scientific research to ensure long-term ecological stewardship. It also underscored the need for migratory corridor development, ecological zoning, and inclusive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) processes as essential components of effective conservation planning.

During group discussions, participants proposed a range of community-driven strategies, including the regulation of agricultural runoff, restoration of riverine forests, and the establishment of community-based wildlife monitoring systems. The workshop concluded with the co-creation of an actionable roadmap, which will be further validated during a follow-up project mission to Lake Nakuru and Lake Elementaita.

The Kenya Lake System project exemplifies UNESCO’s ongoing work under the 1972 World Heritage Convention to safeguard global biodiversity while advancing sustainable livelihoods. By anchoring conservation in local action and intergenerational knowledge sharing, the initiative paves the way for greater ecological resilience in the face of climate change and environmental degradation.