Maasai Mara University is set to host the 13th Mara Day Scientific Conference on Saturday, gathering 48 researchers, scientists, and environmental experts from across the globe. This one-day event precedes the annual Mara Day celebrations, which will be held on Sunday in Sekenani town, Narok County. The conference and celebrations aim to highlight the critical importance of conserving the Mara River Basin (MRB), a vital ecosystem shared by Kenya and Tanzania.
Keynote Speaker and Participants
Renowned scholar and environmental advocate, PLO Lumumba, will be the keynote speaker at the scientific conference. The event will bring together experts from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Belgium, who will present 60 abstracts on various topics related to environmental conservation and climate resilience. The presence of such distinguished individuals underscores the global importance of the Mara Basin and the need for collaborative efforts in its conservation.
Conference Themes and Topics
The conference will focus on environmental conservation and climate resilience within the Mara Basin ecosystem. Key areas to be discussed include natural resource management for inclusive socio-economic development, legal justice, gender equality, and the governance framework for transboundary cooperation, which is essential for sustainable conservation in the Mara Basin. Another critical topic will be the role of knowledge, innovation, and technology in preserving this vital ecosystem.
Lake Victoria Basin executive secretary, Masinde Bwire, emphasized the significance of Mara Day celebrations in recognizing the efforts of various stakeholders in promoting sustainable conservation practices. “Mara Day Celebrations is meant to acknowledge the ongoing process of different actors in promoting integrated and sustainable conservation practices of the Mara Ecosystem,” said Bwire.
Mara Day Celebrations: A Tradition of Conservation and Community Engagement
The annual Mara Day celebrations, which rotate between Kenya and Tanzania, serve as a platform to foster cross-border cooperation in protecting the Mara Basin. This year’s celebrations, themed “Flowing Forward Together: Conserving Mara Basin Ecosystem for Sustainable Biodiversity and Climate Resilience,” aim to strengthen the shared commitment between the two countries in conserving this critical ecosystem.
The Mara River Basin is one of the ten major rivers that drain into Lake Victoria, the second-largest freshwater lake in the world. It is the lifeline of the renowned Maasai Mara and Serengeti ecosystems, which are the bedrock of tourism activities in Kenya and Tanzania. Mara Day was established in 2012 to raise awareness about the conservation of the Mara River Basin, highlighting the importance of sustainable management of the basin’s resources.
Activities and Community Involvement
The Mara Day celebrations on Sunday will feature various activities, including tree planting, exhibitions, and competitions. These events are designed to engage local communities in conservation efforts and promote sustainable practices that enhance their livelihoods. By involving communities in conservation initiatives, the celebrations aim to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility towards preserving the unique biodiversity of the Mara River Basin.
Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry Cabinet Secretary Adan Duale is expected to grace the event, underscoring the importance of government support in these conservation efforts. The initiative reflects a collective commitment to preserving the ecological health of the Mara River Basin, which is crucial for the well-being of both the Maasai Mara and Serengeti ecosystems.
A Commitment to the Future
The Mara Day celebrations and conference highlight the importance of cross-border cooperation in protecting shared natural resources. By bringing together researchers, scientists, and environmental advocates, the event aims to build a future where the Mara Basin ecosystem is conserved for the benefit of all. As stakeholders gather at Maasai Mara University, their shared vision of “Flowing Forward Together” represents a beacon of hope for sustainable biodiversity and climate resilience in the region.
Through these efforts, the Mara Day initiative continues to inspire action and collaboration, ensuring that the Mara River Basin remains a thriving ecosystem for generations to come.
