The 350,000 acre Grumeti concessions form a crucial part of the Serengeti ecosystem. In addition to rejuvenating and preserving the landscape, the Grumeti Fund works with government, local communities and other stakeholders on various conservation projects, ranging from the re-introduction of locally extinct animal species to managing wild fires and reducing the impact of invasive alien plants.
Conservation
Wildlife Re-Introduction Program
The Grumeti Fund is committed to developing programs that support the translocation and reintroduction of a number of endangered and locally extinct wildlife species to both Grumeti and the wider Serengeti ecosystem.
The Grumeti Fund is exploring different avenues to acquire additional rhino to accelerate the black rhino expansion program and to make a meaningful contribution to rhino conservation in the Serengeti.
The Grumeti Fund’s newest reintroduction project involves returning the locally extinct Greater Kudu to Grumeti. Having recently received final government approvals, this exciting conservation initiative is expected to take place in the next year, subject to funding.
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Alien Plant Management
Alien plant species are harmful to indigenous ecosystems (both plants and animals). Some of the biggest threats to our concessions and the neighbouring regions are Chromolaena (Siam Weed), Opuntia (Prickly Pear), Parthenium (Feverfew), and Tithonia (Mexican Sunflower). Comprehensive alien invasive species control programs are in place in the concessions and in selected neighbouring villages to target and eradicate these exotic species and prevent reseeding.
Fire Management
Fire is an important part of the Serengeti ecosystem. It is a naturally occurring phenomenon, and is used as a management tool for the benefit of the habitat and the safety of visitors. When done at the right time, burning reduces rank standing grass; the grass then puts more energy into its roots leading to grasses which are more palatable for wildlife. Fire also improves nutrient cycling in the soil, leading to more nutritious forage for wildlife. Fires that are started illegally are also managed carefully, to prevent unwanted damage to the ecosystem.
Wildlife Wellbeing
Treating wildlife with human-induced injuries is critical in an ecosystem where snaring of wildlife for the bushmeat trade is a common threat. Through a working partnership with Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute (TAWIRI), the Grumeti Fund aims to treat as many animals with human-induced injuries as possible and to reduce the number of animals who would otherwise have died from their injuries.
