OLCHORRO OIBOR CONSERVANCY

Introduction

Olchorro Oibor Conservancy is a community-owned conservancy of approximately 8381 acres, initiated by 89 landowners to conserve the environment and engage in modern pastoralism, which has always been their economic activity. The conservancy also aims to conserve the Maa culture so that the positive aspects can be successfully passed from generation to generation. Additionally, it aims to uplift the livelihoods of the residents through benefits earned from tourism and engaging in economic activities such as beadwork and beekeeping.

Conservancy Objectives

• • To provide a good environment for wildlife that will gradually improve their numbers by curbing poaching and eradicating animal mistreatment.
• • To ensure that the basic needs of people in the conservancy are catered to, providing necessary support to uplift their living standards.
• • To provide maximum security to wildlife, ensuring activities such as wildlife poisoning, uncontrolled charcoal burning, and other hazardous practices are eradicated.

Physical Features

Vegetation

The conservancy is covered by savannah grass and distinct species of trees. It also has a number of hills within its boundaries.

Seasonal Rivers

The conservancy is the source of four significant rivers, including the Olchorro Oibor River and the Orkeju Loo Mariko, a river with naturally growing bananas, a result of past migration and settlement.

Hills

The conservancy boasts beautiful hills, ideal for hiking and camping. One famous hill is Maparasha Hills, offering excellent camping and hiking opportunities with a view of the entire Matapato Rangelands.

Water Sources

The conservancy’s semi-arid climate leads to occasional water shortages for wildlife, livestock, and people. The main water sources are springs, earth dams, and boreholes, which are often shared with wildlife.

Roads and Network Coverage

The conservancy has small marram feeder roads connecting it to nearby towns like Maparasha and Bissil. It has decent network coverage throughout most of the area.

Institutions in the Conservancy

• - School: The conservancy has one main school, Olchorro Oibor Primary School, along with several feeder schools.
• - Health Centre: There is one health center serving the entire area covered by the conservancy.
• - Churches: The conservancy has several churches representing various denominations.

Climate

The conservancy experiences short rains between September and December, and long rains between March and June. It receives an annual rainfall of 500-800 mm.

Scenic Features

The conservancy’s main attractions are wildlife, including monkeys, elephants, snakes, and various bird species. These animals can be found in large numbers. The conservancy’s hills are also excellent for camping and hiking, offering panoramic views of the Matapato Rangelands.