Restoring and sustaining ecosystems using livestock

Explore the pivotal role of livestock, particularly cattle, in advancing conservation initiatives in the Masai Mara and Kenya as a whole with Richard van Aardt and Richard Vigne. We will delve into the significance of well-managed livestock from ecological, economic, and social perspectives, emphasizing the need for holistic and regenerative management practices that enhance these benefits rather than undermining them.

Richard Van Aardt is a Kenyan stockman with over a decade of experience in commercial and regenerative beef production. He previously served as the Livestock and Agriculture Manager at Ol Pejeta Conservancy and now leads True Range, a regenerative livestock and ecological management company specializing in grazing management within protected areas. Richard provides consultation and guidance for grazing programs across Kenya, including Borana and Lolldaiga Conservancies, as well as for various NGOs operating in Narok, Kajiado, and Taita Taveta counties. His dedication revolves around managing livestock to enrich ecosystems, empower communities, and strengthen rural economies.

Richard Vigne is the first Executive Director of the School of Wildlife Conservation. Prior to this he was the CEO of Ol Pejeta Conservancy, the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa and one of the most successful enterprises in Africa. He was born and brought up in Kenya. He has more than 20 years of experience in conservation and, prior to coming to Ol Pejeta, he spent 6 years operating a safari company throughout Uganda and eastern Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo). Richard has completed a number of conservation and land use related consultancies for various organizations including Conservation Capital and the African Wildlife Foundation. He holds a degree in Zoology and a Masters Degree in Agricultural Development.