How Ol Pejeta is protecting rhinos and supporting local livelihoods

Protecting rhinos, powering communities: Conservation at Ol Pejeta

Located in central Kenya, Ol Pejeta Conservancy is one of Africa’s leading examples of how wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism can work hand in hand. In this film, we meet conservationist Abraham Njenga, who shares how his team is working to protect endangered species — including the world’s last two northern white rhinos — while creating long-term opportunities for surrounding communities.

Home to the largest population of eastern black rhinos in East Africa, Ol Pejeta is pushing for more connectivity between conservancies to allow Kenya’s rhino population to reach its full potential. Opening these corridors between protected areas would expand the space needed for rhinos to breed and roam more freely.

But these conservation efforts require more than protected land; it needs sustainable income. On-site tourism provides the majority of Ol Pejeta’s revenue, funding conservation work, ranger teams, community development projects, and education initiatives. With experiences that range from budget camping to high-end safaris, the conservancy welcomes over 120,000 visitors a year, the majority of whom are Kenyan.

This inclusive approach empowers local people to engage with and benefit from conservation, building a shared sense of ownership and pride. Each rhino birth is a milestone: a reminder that protecting nature today ensures it survives for generations to come.