Grevy’s Zebra

The Grévy’s zebra (Equus grevyi) is the largest and most endangered of the three zebra species, native to northern Kenya and southern Ethiopia. Its population has declined sharply due to habitat loss, competition with livestock, and poaching. Conservation efforts focus on habitat management, community partnerships, and population monitoring.

Key Projects Protecting the Grévy’s Zebra

1. Grévy’s Zebra Trust (GZT)

  • The leading organization dedicated exclusively to the conservation of Grévy’s zebra.
  • Works across northern Kenya, particularly in Samburu, Isiolo, Marsabit, and Laikipia counties.
  • Key initiatives include:
    • Community-based monitoring through trained Grévy’s Zebra Scouts who collect data on population and habitat conditions.
    • Habitat restoration by reseeding degraded rangelands and improving water access.
    • Education and outreach programs to promote coexistence with pastoralist communities.
    • Women’s empowerment projects, such as beadwork enterprises, providing alternative livelihoods.
  • Collaborates with Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT), and local conservancies.

2. Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT) – Community Conservancies

  • Supports over 40 community conservanciesacross northern Kenya that protect wildlife, including Grévy’s zebra.
  • Promotes community-led land managementto balance livestock grazing with wildlife conservation.
  • Implements anti-poaching patrols, rangeland rehabilitation, and conflict resolutionbetween herders and wildlife.
  • Provides training and funding for local rangers and community scouts.
  • Key conservancies for Grévy’s zebra include Lewa, Namunyak, Kalama, and Biliqo-Bulesa.

3. Lewa Wildlife Conservancy

  • A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a stronghold for Grévy’s zebra populations.
  • Conducts long-term monitoring of zebra numbers, health, and breeding success.
  • Implements habitat management through rotational grazing systems and water point development.
  • Engages in education and outreach programs for surrounding communities.
  • Works closely with KWS and Grévy’s Zebra Trust to share data and coordinate conservation strategies.

4. Ewaso Ecosystem Monitoring Project

  • A collaborative research initiative involving GZT, Ewaso Lions, and Save the Elephants.
  • Focuses on ecosystem-level management in the Ewaso Nyiro landscape, where Grévy’s zebra coexist with other large mammals.
  • Uses GPS tracking, aerial surveys, and camera traps to study movement patterns and habitat use.
  • Provides data to guide land-use planning and corridor protection.

5. Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) – National Conservation Efforts

  • Oversees the National Recovery and Action Plan for Grévy’s Zebra (2019–2029).
  • Coordinates anti-poaching operations, disease surveillance, and habitat protection.
  • Works with county governments, NGOs, and local communities to implement conservation measures.
  • Supports transboundary collaboration with Ethiopia for population monitoring and protection.

6. Zoological Society of London (ZSL) – EDGE of Existence Program

  • Lists the Grévy’s zebra as a priority EDGE species (Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered).
  • Provides funding and training for local conservationists in Kenya.
  • Supports research on genetic diversity, population viability, and climate resilience.
  • Promotes international awareness and mobilizes global conservation support.

7. Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA) – Alledeghi Wildlife Reserve

  • Focuses on protecting the northernmost population of Grévy’s zebra in Ethiopia.
  • Works to reduce livestock competition and improve water management in shared grazing areas.
  • Partners with local pastoralist communitiesto develop sustainable grazing practices.
  • Collaborates with international NGOs and research institutions for population surveys and habitat restoration.

Supporting Organizations

  • Grévy’s Zebra Trust (GZT)
  • Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS)
  • Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT)
  • Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
  • Zoological Society of London (ZSL)
  • Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA)
  • Save the Elephants
  • Ewaso Lions

The Broader Mission
Conservation of the Grévy’s zebra depends on community-based initiatives, scientific monitoring, and cross-border collaboration. Projects led by the Grévy’s Zebra Trust, NRT, and Lewa Conservancy have been instrumental in stabilizing populations through habitat restoration, local stewardship, and education. Continued cooperation between Kenya and Ethiopia remains vital for ensuring the long-term survival of this iconic species.