african cranes, wetlands and communities

1African Cranes, Wetlands and Communities - Newsletter 14

AFRICAN CRANES, WETLANDS and COMMUNITIES

NEWSLETTER 14

2 African Cranes, Wetlands and Communities - Newsletter 14

Edited by:Osiman Mabhachi

Community Projects CoordinatorAfrican Crane Conservation Programme

ICF/EWT PartnershipPrivate Bag X11, Modderfontein, 1645, South Africa

Tel: +27 (0) 11 372 3600Fax: +27 (0) 11 608 4682Cell: +27 (0) 82 877 5126

Email: [email protected]

ContentsEditorial

The International Crane Foundation / Endangered Wildlife Trust Partnership turns 10

Development of an action plan for the world’s cranes

Bird trapping and other factors affecting avitourism at Murago Wetland

Maintaining landscape values and improving tenure systems to secure the future of wetlands

New hope for wetland conservation in Rwanda

My tour of South African crane and wetland conservation projects

Wetland Awareness Day in the Driefontein Grasslands

Farmers: Key partners in conservation

Mapping threats to Grey Crowned Cranes in eastern Uganda

3

4

5

5

7

9

10

11

13

14


Editorial

The publication of this 14th edition of the African Crane Wetlands and Communities Newsletter coincides with the 10th anniversary of the partnership between the International Crane Foundation (ICF) and the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT). Operating as the ICF/EWT Partnership for African Cranes, the two organisations have jointly initiated and supported crane and wetland conservation projects in East and Southern Africa, driven by the quest to fulfil a shared goal - saving African cranes. Join us in celebrating a decade of purposeful and impactful collaboration!

This edition covers topical issues in wetland and biodiversity conservation: species status reviews, threat assessment, environmental awareness, partnerships and capacity building. The last edition of The Cranes: Status Review and Crane Action Plan was published in 1996 but a lot has changed since then. Kerryn Morrison reports on current efforts to update crane distributions, threats to species and tenable conservation actions. The outputs of this exercise will be published as the New Crane Conservation Strategy. In the same vein, it is critical to fill in data gaps by carrying out surveys in areas where not much is known about the distribution and population status of cranes. William Olupot presents results of a rapid study that was undertaken to better understand current population status of and threats to Grey Crowned Cranes in eastern Uganda. His recommendations on how to alleviate the threats in human-dominated landscapes are not only relevant to Uganda but have implications for crane conservation planning in other countries.

There is scant literature on social causes as well as the biological and socio-economic impacts of bird trapping. To contribute empirical evidence needed to inform mitigation of this direct threat, two Rwanda-based ornithologists (Claudien Nsabagasani and James Hogg) undertook a study to assess bird trapping and its impacts at Murago Wetland in Rwanda. They report on their findings and stress that a win-win situation can only be possible if the socio-economic drivers of bird trapping are addressed. Despite ongoing efforts to address wetland degradation in Rwanda, a lot still needs to be done to balance wetland utilisation and conservation in the country. Nathan Kabanguka gives an overview of threats to wetlands and how wetland degradation affects humans and wildlife. He cites some of the socio-economic and biodiversity conservation benefits that will potentially accrue from a planned wetland conservation project targeting three major wetland systems, Akanyaru, Nyabarongo and Rugezi.

Every year, organisers of Wetlands Day celebrations coin a theme for the event. Themes are meant to inspire people to think and act positively but very often action is hindered by lack of knowledge on effective ways to maintain or improve wetland health. My article summaries two innovative strategies that the ICF/EWT Partnership is using to secure the future of wetlands: maintaining landscape values and improving tenure systems. Still on the subject of environmental awareness, Togarasei Fakarayi reports on a wetland awareness workshop held in the Driefontein Grasslands, one of Zimbabwe’s six wetland landscapes that were declared Ramsar sites in 2013.

The founder of the Kipsaina Crane and Wetland Conservation Group, Maurice Wanjala, embarked on a learning and exchange tour of South African crane and wetland conservation projects in August 2014. He narrates his experiences during the tour and highlights the key lessons he learnt that are relevant to his project sites in western Kenya. Conservation of species and habitats outside formally protected areas can only be successful if farmers are brought on board as partners. This is the main message in Tanya Smith’s article. She provides evidence of how working with farmers for over two decades has helped stabilise populations of all three South African crane species.

Edited by:

Osiman MabhachiCommunity Projects Coordinator

African Crane Conservation ProgrammeICF/EWT Partnership

Private Bag X11, Modderfontein, 1645, South AfricaTel: +27 (0) 11 372 3600Fax: +27 (0) 11 608 4682Cell: +27 (0) 82 877 5126



The International Crane Foundation / Endangered Wildlife Trust Partnership turns 10 - Celebrating a decade of impactful collaboration


International Crane Foundation / Endangered Wildlife Trust Partnership, South AfricaEmail: [email protected]

Most partnerships between conservation organisations have short lifespan as they often forged when there is need to collaborate and complete a project within a defined timeframe. Unfortunately, these partnerships, built around short-term projects, collapse when the project in question comes to an end. The unique and robust partnership between the International Crane Foundation (ICF) and the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) does not fall into this category. This year, the two organisations celebrate 10 years of purposeful and impactful collaboration. They have jointly initiated and supported crane and wetland conservation projects in Africa, operating as the ICF/EWT Partnership for African Cranes. The premise upon which the partnership was initially built, the shared goal to save cranes against extinction, remains the key motivation for the organisations to pool resources together and work towards bringing on board as many in-country partners as possible. Whilst the longevity of the partnership can be attributed to various factors, it is important to note that the two organisations acknowledged at the outset that attaining their common goal would require more than joint fundraising. They invested time and effort into identifying and refining areas of common interests and opportunities for synergy. They also embarked on a gradual consultative and adaptive process which culminated in the formulation of a joint crane and wetland conservation strategy. The strategy, which is linked to strategic imperatives, conservation themes and targets of both organisations, is already being used as a guide in planning, implementing and evaluating crane and wetland conservation projects in East and Southern Africa.

The guiding philosophy of the ICF/EWT Partnership has been to build a network of committed individuals, communities and organisations that would spearhead conservation efforts at various sites and regions in African crane range states. This approach has produced the desired impacts as reputable organisations, community champions, individual lobbyists, researchers and other supporters have been identified in various countries, notably with Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. In each of these countries, collaboration with the in-country organisations have been formalised to pave way for long-term commitment in crane conservation work from the partners. The process of building these important networks has gone beyond within-country collaboration to include activities meant to promote between-country learning and exchange. A notable outcome of this has been the development of community-based crane and wetland conservation projects in Uganda and Rwanda, inspired by the award-winning Kipsaina Crane and Wetland Conservation Project (Kenya). Inspired by the successes, lessons and experiences from East and Southern Africa, plans are underway to expand the geographical focus and initiate Black Crowned Cane conservation projects in West Africa.

The ICF/EWT Partnership has made significant strides in drawing the world’s attention to the decline of cranes across the African continent. Ten years ago, one would have quickly dismissed projects aimed at saving cranes in most African countries as a mere campaign by some environmental alarmists. Tireless efforts by the ICF/EWT Partnership to highlight the impacts of human activities (past and current) on cranes and wetlands and presentation of facts and figures on the decline of cranes have changed mindsets and national priorities. A notable example is the current national programme by the government of Rwanda to address threats the problem of domestication of and trade in cranes. Though a lot still needs to be done to halt the decline of cranes across the Africa continent, it is encouraging to note that more environmental organisations are coming on board and government agencies are committing themselves to play an active role in saving cranes against local extinction. Buy-in from local stakeholders and support from the national government will definitely go a long way in consolidating the success of partnership and sustain its legacy in the respective countries.

The successes of the ICF/EWT Partnership over the past ten years would not have been possible without the determination and exceptional team building skills of Kerryn Morrison. As manager of the partnership since its inception, Kerryn has spearheaded the development of research and field conservation projects in various African countries, with Rwanda and Tanzania being the latest additions. Coincidentally, this year also marks 20 years of Kerryn’s involvement in crane conservation. Congratulations!


Development of an action plan for the world’s cranesKerryn Morrison1 and Griffin Shanungu2

1 Manager, International Crane Foundation /Endangered Wildlife Trust2 Coordinator, Zambia Crane and Wetland Conservation Programme

The IUCN / Wetlands International Crane Specialist Group currently has over 250 members based in 50 countries around the world. We are currently in the process of revising the Crane Action Plan that was first developed in 1996 by Dr George Archibald and Dr Curt Meine. The final Crane Conservation Strategy will include updates on all 15 crane species, updated distribution maps, information on each of the key threats to cranes and an action plan to address these threats. We are hoping that the Strategy will be finalised by the end of 2015.

From the 7th to the 9th of November 2014, 18 participants (from Belgium, China, Germany, Japan, Korea, Pakistan, Russia, South Africa, Spain, USA and Zambia), including the Crane Specialist Group Steering Committee and a few members, met at Welt Vogel Park Walsrode in Germany. Our mission was to develop the vision and goals for the Crane Conservation Strategy, and to initiate the development of the objectives and actions for each of the threats that we have identified over the past 2 years. This includes 19 direct (proximate) threats and 3 indirect (ultimate) threats, encompassing habitat / ecosystem and direct species threats, through to the less tangible threats related to human population densities, economic growth and lack of awareness. It was an incredible three days of discussions, planning and obtaining an improved understanding of the threats facing cranes around the world. It was also an incredible opportunity to share ideas and to learn from each other, highlighting strongly how small the world really is and how so many of the threats bear resemblance to each other wherever you are working.

If you would like in any way to contribute to the species assessments, the distribution maps or to the threat assessments, please contact me on [email protected].

A big thank you to Geer Scheres of Welt Vogel Park Walsrode for supporting both Griffin Shanungu’s and my attendance at the workshop.

Bird trapping and other factors affecting avitourism at Murago Wetland

Claudien Nsabagasani1 and James Hogg21Landscape Conservation Programme Manager, Albertine Rift Conservation Society, Email: [email protected]

2 Associate, Albertine Rift Conservation Society, Email: [email protected]

SummaryThe Albertine Rift Conservation Society (ARCOS), the Association for Conservation of Nature in Rwanda (ACNR), Rwanda Birding Association (including the Rwanda Birding Club) and Rwanda Safari Guides Association (RWSGA) support efforts to end the hunting of wild birds and other wildlife. This paper presents a case study on bird trapping and other factors affecting avitourism based on observations by two ornithologists, Claudien Nsagabasani and James Hogg. Though observed at one site, Murago Wetland, this problem is considered to be widespread throughout Rwanda. The study site comprises a patch of wetland in Bugesera District (Coordinates: -2.227775; 30.066576). An access route that traverses the wetland forms the boundary separating Mareba and Nyamata Sectors. The wetland forms the headwaters of Lake Cyohaha (North). Recently, and on several other occasions, activities with potentially devastating consequences for birdlife have been noted. The wetland is potentially one of the best birding spots crucial for avitourism in Bugesera District. This case study serves to highlight some of the challenges faced in developing avitourism.

IntroductionRwanda has aspirations to become one of the world’s leading eco-tourism destinations. Fulfilment of this aspiration largely depends on the protection of the environment and wildlife. Traditionally, some wildlife species were protected due to their association with clan totems. Alexandre Kimenyi, on his webpage Clans and Totems in Rwanda states; “It has been hypothesized that totemic societies were the first ecologists. Clans have the obligation to protect their totems. It is taboo for a clan to kill its animal totem. A clan member can’t cut down a tree if the tree is its clan’s totem” (http://kimenyi.com/clans.php). Some animals like the Grey Crowned Crane, Leopard, Pied Wagtail, and many others, were totems for different clans in various parts of Rwanda. Unfortunately, in modern day Rwanda these attachments and respect for wildlife and certain species seem to have disappeared.

The communities living around some of the popular birding sites in Rwanda are heavily reliant on ecosystem services provided by wetlands to supplement produce from subsistence farming. However, population growth, a shortage of land and dwindling


resources are driving people to exploit ecosystem services and the environment on which they rely in an unsustainable way. Specifically, with regards to birds the main undesirable activities include; habitat disturbance, cutting of native trees, overharvesting of reeds, grasses and papyrus, nest disturbance, encroachment, illegal hunting, collection and trading in eggs and chicks, pollution and sedimentation.

Observations at Murago WetlandJan De Groot, James Hogg and Claudien Nsabagasani explored Murago Wetland extensively. The wetland is home to over 70 bird species, some of which are very rare or endangered, e.g. the Grey Crowned Crane. The vegetation in the wetland is dominated by Carex spp and there are patches of papyrus and areas of lily pads. The water quality appears to be good. The wetland and the wildlife it supports are of high importance for community wellbeing, culture, beauty and inspiration. It plays a key role in irrigation, flood attenuation and carbon sequestration, in addition to being a source of drinking water. The surrounding farmland is used for vegetable and banana production.

Recently, illegal hunting of birds has been observed at the site. What is most worrying is that the species of birds being caught are considered rare and endangered in Rwanda, according to “Birds of Rwanda an Atlas and Handbook” published in 2011. These include Lesser Jacana Microparra capensis, Allen’s Gallinule Porphyrio alleni and the Purple Swamphen Porphyrio porphyria, amongst others. The birds are captured using locally-made traps and snares which are placed in areas within easy reach or are accessed using canoes. In addition, the fishing methods employed in the wetland are likely to affect the populations of diving birds and may lead to a steep decline in the productivity of the fish resources. Furthermore, farmers were recently observed cultivating in the swamp and spraying crops with pesticides right on the wetland’s edges. Pollutants in agri-chemicals can kill fish as well as the insects and amphibians that provide food for fish and birds. These chemicals will ultimately bio-accumulate in fish which when eaten by people may cause long-term health problems.

Below is a description of species that are trapped and hunted at the site:

Lesser Jacana: This is a resident species in Rwanda. Until the recent sightings by the authors, the species was considered very uncommon or extinct in the country. The last known record from several years ago was from Lake Mugesera. This species has been most affected by habitat loss and recent events have shown that hunting is having an impact on the population.

Allen’s Gallinule: This is an intra-African migrant that occurs as an uncommon visitor in the country. It has been recorded in a handful of sites in Bugsera District, the Akanyaru Wetland and Akagera National Park. Sightings for this species have been recorded every few years, but the species is rare.

Purple Swamphe: This is a resident species in Rwanda. It is considered uncommon. It is now only found in Bugesera District, though historically it was present in the Akanyaru Wetlands and Akagera National Park. This bird was recently observed with young at Murago Wetland, a very significant breeding record for the country.

The three species are known to be secretive. However, at Murago Wetland they have all been observed in the open. If hunting continues at the current rate, these species will be exterminated.

Targets of traps ......(from left to right)..Lesser Jacana, Allen’s Gallinule and Purple Swamphe

DiscussionThe responsible authority, the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), has taken steps to address the problems affecting Grey Crowned Cranes. They are particularly acting to mitigate threats such as poaching and illegal trade. The RDB and other stakeholders are conducting awareness campaigns and rehabilitating captive birds at Akagera National Park. This process is on-going and so far 15 birds have been ringed and ultimately over 40 birds will be moved to the quarantine facility before rehabilitation.

It is evident that some communities are not aware or intentionally ignore the illegality of collecting and trapping wildlife. Though this report is based on observations from one site, it is highly likely that hundreds of birds are trapped at other sites across Rwanda. According to the local community, the main drivers of bird trapping are lack of alternative sources of meat/protein and lack of awareness on the impacts of bird trapping. But more worryingly, some people consider some of the birds to be a delicacy. Some poachers interviewed reported that there is a high demand for these birds’ meat in Kigali and Nyamata and that they catch the birds after getting orders from buyers.


If bird trapping continues and other threats affect this and other wetlands, species like the Lesser Jacana, Allen’s Gallinule and Purple Swamphen will become extinct in Rwanda. Loss of these interesting species that are attractive to tourists will be a loss to the country and potential tourism revenue. Furthermore, birding tourists will be horrified to see rare birds being trapped like this. If tourists observe and report habitat destruction and the trapping of birds, a lot of negative publicity may be generated.

Habitat loss, erosion and pollution and the destruction of papyrus swamps is leading to the loss of some of the most interesting areas for avitourism and affecting populations of rare, endemic and endangered papyrus dependant species.

Recommendations Several measures are required to address bird trapping and other factors affecting wild bird populations not only at Murago Wetland but at a national level. To address the problems, an integrated effort is needed from Local Authorities, Bugesera and other districts, birders, RDB, Rwanda Environmental Management Authority (REMA) and other institutions. Action by these institutions actions is critical to save the birds, to enhance avitourism potential and ensure that trapping incidents do not generate bad publicity. The local communities clearly see these birds as a free source of meat and income. Any actions need to address these problems should also address the socio-economic needs of the communities. Assisting the communities in raising rabbits or chickens could be a good start to provide a source of meat. The wetland also has potential for caged fish farming. There also needs to be some awareness-raising and education in the community highlighting the importance of the wetland as a future avitourism destination. Additionally, raising awareness about alternative diets and sources of protein such as beans, peanuts and other vegetable proteins could also help alleviate the problem. Implementing these actions will take time. In the short term, it is strongly recommended that the community be made aware that hunting these and all bird species is illegal. This message can be put across during Umuganda meetings and signboards can be placed at the wetland. It may also be necessary to apply the relevant penalties as outlined in Rwandan Law.

Furthermore, research to identify the markets for wildlife products (i.e. the sources of demand in Nyamata and Kigali), identification of key actors and undertaking prosecutions and / or awareness raising to stop the demand for these birds is critical.

Maintaining landscape values and improving tenure systems: Innovative strategies to secure the future of wetlands


International Crane Foundation / Endangered Wildlife Trust Partnership, South AfricaEmail: [email protected]

The international theme for this year’s World Wetlands Day is “Wetlands for our Future”. Not only is the theme appropriate, it is catchy and thought-provoking. These are the attributes that every theme of environmental event or celebration should have. Themes in environmental awareness are meant to stimulate thoughts about causes of environmental problems and prompt conservation action. When themes of environmental events are disseminated, readers, listeners, viewers and event participants develop visions depicting future scenarios of wetland landscapes.

Envisioning the future is easy but coming up with ways to make the vision a reality is not. The simple question that participants of this year’s World Wetlands Day should ask themselves is: How can their visions of the desired wetland scenarios characterised by lush grass, waterlogged soils and abundant wildlife be achieved and maintained? To answer this question, we can draw lessons from our crane and wetland conservation projects. Two of the main lessons involve the development of strategies to promote land tenure systems that contribute to wetland protection as well as enhancing socio-economic values attached to wetland landscapes by user communities.

Themes in environmental campaigns are often coined with human welfare in mind. This is meant to give environmental conservation a human face. Whilst this may sound like giving priority to human welfare at the expense of biodiversity conservation, it is basically done to highlight the linkages between human well-being and the status of biodiversity (current and future). The gives rise to the issue of social and environmental values. Insights from crane conservation projects in East and Southern Africa show that by maintaining socio-economic values attached to wetlands, the status of the wetlands as viable crane habitats can also be maintained. A practical example that is illustrates this pertinent point can be found in the Driefontein Grasslands, Zimbabwe, where local communities value a mosaic of riverine wetlands and adjoining grasslands as their communal grazing zones. Grey Crowned and Wattled Cranes breed at sites located within these zones. The community collectively acts to prevent any phenomenon that could degrade their grazing area, e.g. fires. In the process, they protect Wattled Crane nest sites during the dry winter season. As part of its crane and wetland conservation project, BirdLife Zimbabwe funded the establishment


of a community garden so as to prevent the proliferation of individual household-owned gardens in the community grazing area which would otherwise affect crane breeding sites. By so doing, a balance was attained without compromising socio-economic and environmental values. A land use system (livestock grazing) that is not detrimental to crane survival has been sustained for over a decade. Acknowledgement of social and ecological values is therefore contributing to ongoing efforts to secure the future of wetlands, cranes, livestock and humans in Zimbabwe’s prime Wattled Crane area.

Wattled Crane breeding sites are located in communal grazing areas in the Driefontein Grasslands, Zimbabwe

Most threats to wetlands are human-induced. They are linked to decisions made, actions taken and practices adopted by wetland user communities. Collectively, decisions, actions and practices, define human behaviour. Human behaviour that has implications on wetland management is strongly influenced by prevailing land tenure systems. Tenure systems determine how and when landscapes that contain wetlands are accessed, used, managed, owned and sold. To conserve a wetland so that it continues to provide habitats of species of conservation concern, it is important to promote a land management system that clearly defines how patches can be used without compromising the overall integrity of the wetland. It is also important to regulate access to specific sites within the patches so as to minimise disturbance to the species. Above all, it is important to have a tenure system that is locally acceptable and allows individuals or groups of users to take overall responsibility for the management of the wetland. These factors highlight the importance of incorporating tenure issues in wetland conservation. This can be done by enhancing already existing tenure systems if they have positive implications on habitat integrity and species protection.

Secondly, a conservation-friendly tenure system can be promoted with input from the relevant local communities and state agencies. These strategies have been implemented at two sites that are crucial for Grey Crowned Cranes in Uganda. In the catchment of Rwebicere Wetland, Nature Uganda recognised the existence of a tenure system which allowed farmers to fence off and sustainably manage their agricultural plots, which encompassed wetlands containing crane breeding sites. The farmers were encouraged to act as custodians of the wetland patches and a 50% increase in crane breeding success has been reported since 2007. At Nyamuriro Wetland, Nature Uganda worked with local communities to develop a community-based management plan which has, for the past eight years, prevented encroachment into community-enforced wetland buffer zone. Though the two cases involve human-modified wetlands, they highlight the fact that critical ecological attributes of wetlands can be maintained through an approach rooted in tenure systems.

One commonality in the discussion about the two innovative strategies to secure the future of wetlands is that they both depend on successful engagement and buy-in from wetland user communities. The other commonality is the need for the wetland conservationist to fully understand the local contextual factors. These factors include quantified socio-economic benefits derived from wetlands (values) by wetland users and the resource management institutions (tenure systems). The examples presented above may appear to be context-specific success stories but represent evidence of how the appreciation of local values and tenure systems when planning and implementing projects can translate into tangible wetland conservation impacts.


New hope for wetland conservation in RwandaNathan Kabanguka

Assistant Lecturer, Kitabi College of Conservation and Environmental Management, RwandaEmail: [email protected]

IntroductionAfter the successful completion of the first phase of the Rugezi Marsh Conservation Project funded by the MacArthur Foundation, the International Crane Foundation/Endangered Wildlife Trust Partnership and its in-country partners, Albertine Rift Conservation Society (ARCOS) and Kitabi College of Conservation and Environmental Management (KCCEM) have been granted another opportunity to implement another wetland conservation project in Rwanda. Whereas the first phase of the project (2011-2014) focused on Rugezi Marsh, the second phase of the project will include two other major wetlands namely Rugezi, Akanyaru and Nyabarongo. The target wetlands are part of very important ecosystems in Rwanda and the East and Central African regions. They are located in the Lake Victoria Basin, a major watershed of the famous Nile River. They are also important biodiversity hotspots. The three wetlands are important bird habitats, with some of the bird species being endemic to Rwanda and/or Albertine Rift eco-region. Among the many bird species common at these wetlands is the Grey Crowned Crane, which is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red Data List.

Common threats to wetlands in Rwanda Akanyaru, Nyabarongo and Rugezi wetlands are important for biodiversity conservation and national development but are under increasing pressure from human-induced threats emanating from high population density and widespread poverty. The status of most aquatic ecosystems in Rwanda has deteriorated over the years as a result of reclamation for agriculture and settlement, improper land use practices that result in siltation, sand mining and pollution from sewage and industrial effluents. Reclamation of wetlands in urban areas for housing and industrial development has been a common phenomenon, especially in Kigali City. With decreasing amounts of rainfall, the hydrological regimes and ecological integrity of wetlands are threatened.

Over-exploitation of plants and animals in wetlands is an issue that is impacting negatively on the services the swamp ecosystems provide. Reduction of vegetation cover leads to increased evaporation of water through direct radiation, a reduction of the function of sediments retention and flood control, a gradual decline in biodiversity. Some of the plant species extracted from wetlands are: Cyperus papyrus Cyperus latifolius, used for roofing, making mats and ceilings, Vossia Vossia cuspidata, used for roofing, Cyperus denudatus for rope making, and a wide range of medicinal plants collected by traditional healers and sold on local markets or home treatment. Hunting of certain animals that depend on swamps exerts a pressure on already depleted populations of these animals. They may disappear or migrate to other habitats that may not be suitable to them. Uncontrolled fishing is the cause of the disappearance of certain species of fish from wetlands and other water bodies. Other products extracted from wetlands include clay, sand and peat. Clay is used for making bricks and tiles for buildings. Peat is used as a source of energy at prison centres, industries and schools. There are no clear guidelines for peat harvesting in Rwanda.

Land use practices impacting on wetlandsWetlands in Rwanda are mainly threatened by reclamation and degradation, especially those outside national parks. Human activities threatening wetlands in Rwanda include settlements and road construction, drainage, conversion to agriculture, dumping of industrial pollutants, improper sewage disposal and excessive harvesting of plant products. Other practices linked to land use practices such as trampling by livestock, burning of vegetation and soil excavation processes have a devastating effect on vegetation cover. These practices, if left unchecked, may make the wetland soils susceptible to erosion. Increased housing developments associated with urbanisation, directly affects the soils’ physical characteristics thus lowering water infiltration and increasing runoff and soil erosion, with increased potential for floods. This has happened in Kigali and, to a lesser extent, in other provincial towns across the country. Also associated with urbanisation is watershed degradation and increasing incidences of dumping of untreated effluent in rivers and marshlands. In most urban areas, it is highly likely that wetlands are used as dumping sites for wastes. They may also be converted to other forms of land use, such as residential and industrial development, road construction, or aquaculture.

Cultivation and surface irrigation at Akanyaru Wetland near Butare


Proposed interventions and future benefitsThe new project will involve engagement of national environmental agencies to raise public awareness on importance of sustainable management of wetlands for biodiversity conservation and community development, with local communities and policy makers being the target audience. This, in the long run, will lead to practical action to maintain or improve ecosystem goods and services. Capacity building for local and national stakeholders will be a key element of the project. Capacity building will involve skills development in the area of biodiversity assessment, monitoring and livelihood projects such as ecotourism. When these interventions are implemented successfully, Rwandans can be hopeful that they will enjoy the benefits, especially the hydrological and biodiversity benefits provided by wetlands, for many centuries to come.

My tour of South African crane and wetland conservation project sites Maurice Wanjala

Founder, Kipsaina Crane and Wetland Conservation Group, RwandaEmail: [email protected]

In August 2014, I received an invitation from the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) to visit South African crane and wetland conservation projects. The purpose of the tour was to learn and share experiences with crane conservation officers operating in the Mpumalanga and KwaZulu Natal regions of South Africa. During this trip, I shared a lot with my hosts, especially on crane monitoring protocols which included collection of data on sightings, flocks, roosts, breeding events and ringing of crane chicks.

Most of our activities I was involved in required us to be in the field. The most exciting moment was when I participated in the ringing of a crane. I learnt how to catch, ring and release the birds. I also learnt how to weigh and measure eggs and use the information to estimate when the egg was likely to hatch. I was impressed with the way the EWT was working with farmers and how some farmers were awarded the crane custodian signboards. I found this to be a very good incentive that I plan introduce in my project area.

I shared my experiences in the areas of school conservation clubs, community-based approaches to crane and wetland conservation, tree planting, school demonstration plots, energy saving stoves, waste management, organic farming, art and crafts, among others. While undertaking field work and interacting with other stakeholders, we had the opportunity to discuss ideas on how to enhance regional collaboration in future. We agreed that it was important to organise exchange programs amongst project facilitators, partners and other stakeholders. We also managed to visit schools, farms, educational centres, tourist attractions, historical sites, forests and wetlands. I toured areas where wetland reclamation/restoration had been undertaken and noted that there was potential for replicating the process in other countries.

Maurice learning about nest monitoring in KwaZulu Natal


In the wetlands, most of which are located on farms, we were able to see pairs and flocks of the three different crane species found in South Africa, Blue Cranes, Grey Crowned Cranes and Wattled Cranes. One interesting aspect of crane monitoring I learnt included how to conduct aerial survey of cranes. The only difference between the birds, especially Grey Crowned Cranes, found in South African and Kenya is that the Kenyan birds are more used to people such that they can be observed at close range. Apart from the birds, I managed to identify indigenous and exotic the tree species common in the areas I visited. I discovered that South Africa, like Kenya, was also experiencing the menace of alien invasive species.

When I was in Chrissiesmeer, I visited a site where uncontrolled dumping of wastes is posing a health hazard. I put forward suggestions on how to handle solid and liquid wastes in a community set-up. I also visited Entabeni Educational Centre where I gained knowledge on how to set up, manage, lead an educational and visitors centre. I also visited the KwaZulu Natal Crane Foundation Centre, which in my opinion, is a very successful project. It was a particularly interesting place for me because my hosts organised a party to celebrate my birthday on the 28th of August. I am grateful because I also received some educational materials, especially at the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA). I was impressed with the way hotel owners welcomed me and went further to give me moral support. I also learnt more about the design of eco-tourism structures and how to ensure visitor satisfaction. The Eco-ranger programme, which empowers youths to play an active role in environmental conservation, is another activity I would like to introduce given that fires are common in most of our project areas. This would be a job opportunity for our youth, especially school-leavers that are struggling to find jobs. The other topics that featured prominently in our discussions include Eco-Schools, Wind Energy, Human-Bird Conflict, Predators and Famers and Water Quality.

In conclusion, my trip was largely successful because most of my expectations were met. I made some requests for equipment and materials that may enhance our project activities. These include crane monitoring equipment, educational materials for schoolchildren, reading materials (hard and software copies), water testing kits, water sprinkles, cameras etc. On a personal note, I discovered that South Africa could be described as the “Europe of Africa” because of the modern infrastructure and good planning systems.

On behalf of my organisation, the Kipsaina Crane and Wetland Conservation Group, I would like to sincerely acknowledge the support and warm welcome I received from the EWT staff, hotel owners and individuals I met. I would like to particularly thank staff members from the EWT’s African Crane Conservation Programme for making my trip a great success.

Wetlands Awareness Day in the Driefontein Grasslands Togarasei Fakarayi

Projects Officer, BirdLife ZimbabweEmail: [email protected]

IntroductionA community awareness workshop on wetlands was conducted at Shashe Community Business Centre in Driefontein Grasslands on the 18th of July 2014. The workshop was organised by BirdLife Zimbabwe in partnership with the Environmental Management Agency (EMA), World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF- Zimbabwe), Gutu Rural District Council (RDC) and the local communities. Located in central Zimbabwe, the landscape in the Driefontein Grasslands is characterised by extensive wetlands. It is an area rich in birds, Important Bird Area (IBA), and is also known to support a wide range of other animals of conservation importance. The area was designated as a Ramsar site in 2013. It is the only site among the seven designated sites in Zimbabwe that is communally-managed. The purpose of the workshop was to raise awareness about the designation of the Driefontein Grasslands as a Ramsar site, and benefits of conserving wetlands and biodiversity in the area. The workshop was attended by a wide range of stakeholders, including traditional leaders (Chief Serima and Chief Chirumanzu), Gutu District Administrator and other district officials. Environmental Management Agency (EMA) Officers from the national office, Masvingo Province, Midlands Province and Mashonaland East Province were also present. BirdLife Zimbabwe and WWF-Zimbabwe were represented by their project officers. The event was also attended by members of the media, children and teachers from three local schools, members of the National Wetlands Steering Committee, four Local Conservation Groups in Driefontein Grasslands, and other community members.

Workshop proceedingsOn arrival, workshop participants toured exhibitions at the venue. An opening prayer was then given by Mrs Mukaro of Markdale, and the local headmen led the traditional greetings of the Chiefs. A key note address was delivered by Mrs Alleta Nyahuye (EMA) on behalf of the Minister of Environment, Water and Climate. Dignitaries were introduced by the EMA officials, the local Councillor, and BirdLife Zimbabwe Project Officer. The local community leaders also introduced members of the community and the schools. A tour of the wetlands was led by BirdLife Zimbabwe. Participants were divided into two groups.


The first group drove to a site that, 3 km from the venue, while the second group that consisted mainly of school children walked to a nearby wetland (less than a kilometre from the venue). During the walks, 4 Grey Crowned Cranes were seen in the wetlands. The area is unique in that it supports both Wattled and Grey Crowned Cranes.

The wetland tour was followed by speeches delivered by different speakers. I spoke about crane and wetland conservation activities in the area. The local councillor, Mr Mudziwapasi, gave a historical background of the area since Shashe Village was established. Representatives of Local Conservation Groups (LCGs) shared their experiences in crane and wetland conservation with the other participants. An officer from the Department of Agricultural Technical and Extension Services (AGRITEX) spoke about the importance of wetlands in sustaining agriculture. The EMA Provincial Manager for the Midlands Provide explained the role of his department in the conservation of wetlands. Mrs Alleta Nyahuye from EMA National Office delivered a key note speech on behalf of the Minister of Environment, Water and Climate. In her speech, she explained the obligations that come with ratifying Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, commonly known as Ramsar Convention. She informed participants about the processes followed and position taken by the Zimbabwean Government in signing the Ramsar Convention and mentioned the other six sites designated as Ramsar sites. She expressed gratitude to communities in Driefontein Grasslands for actively participating in crane and wetland conservation in the area. Communities were informed that the government would support community initiatives at Ramsar sites.

Local communities and schools entertained audience through dramas and songs. A drama by pupils from Shashe Primary School sent a clear message on the importance of conserving cranes, and how the species are negatively affected by wetland loss. Interesting poems aimed at delivering conservation messages were presented by pupils from other local schools. Various prizes in the form of T-shirts and certificates were awarded to the Local Conservation Groups and local schools for their active role in promoting crane and wetland conservation. Mrs Alleta Nyahuye and the Gutu District Administrator presented the awards to the recipients. This was followed by quiz and answer session, during which winners were presented with T-shirts. Chief Chirumanzu officially closed the workshop with a vote of thanks. He highlighted the role of traditional leaders in the conservation of wetlands. He thanked all stakeholders for supporting wetland conservation and called for cooperation among all players when addressing environmental problems in the area.

Meeting outputsThe workshop was instrumental in raising community awareness on the Ramsar Convention and importance of wetlands in the Driefontein Grasslands. It presented an opportunity for stakeholders to discuss pertinent environmental issues. Through the tour of wetlands, participants had the opportunity to identify potential opportunities for wetland and biodiversity conservation in the area. Local communities who have been actively working with BirdLife Zimbabwe on crane and wetland conservation welcomed the new developments in terms of recognition of their area as a site of international importance. Local communities were also happy to see involvement of new partners in promoting wetland conservation in their area. For future reference and further information sharing, a small video was produced capturing the event, the site, with some background information of the event. This can be viewed at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RA-ZW493N4Q.

Way forwardThere is need for continuous education and awareness-raising on sustainable wetland management in the area, and enhance initiatives of communities who have been involved in promoting sustainable wetland management and crane conservation. Since the area is located outside protected area network of Zimbabwe, for conservation efforts to be effective there is need for cooperation among local stakeholders and promotion of the wise use of wetlands. Linking livelihoods and wetland conservation issues is key in ensuring active participation of stakeholders in wetland management and conservation.

ConclusionThe Driefontein community wetland awareness day was an eye opener to most local stakeholders and participants from outside the Driefontein area. Participants showed great appreciation of the site and its importance for biodiversity conservation. The event provided a platform for knowledge sharing and generated interest in wetland and bird conservation among stakeholders.

Participants following proceedings at Driefontein Wetlands Awareness Day Meeting


AcknowledgementsBirdLife Zimbabwe is grateful to WWF-Zimbabwe for financially supporting, and helping in organising the wetland awareness event. The role played by the Environmental Management Agency officials in organising this event is sincerely acknowledged. Shashe Primary School is acknowledged for providing furniture used during the event and also entertainment by school kids. Special gratitude goes to AGRITEX Officers, the Local Councillor, Leaders of the Local Conservation Groups, Taigara Primary School, Shashe Secondary School and other community members.

Farmers: Key partners in conservationTanya Smith,

Southern Africa Regional Manager International Crane Foundation / Endangered Wildlife Trust Partnership, South Africa


Over 70% of the surface area of South Africa is privately-owned and much of the farmland is under crops or stocked with livestock. Compare this to the 6.71% of land that is classified as formally protected (designated as national parks or proclaimed nature reserves) as stated in the State of Environment Report 2013. This comparison makes it clear that farmers have a major role to play in the conservation of wild fauna and flora.

Many of South Africa’s larger bird species – vultures, eagles, storks and cranes – are threatened in one way or another. Only a few of these birds can be effectively protected within the boundaries of parks and other refuges as they often fly large distances to forage or mingle with other populations outside the formally protected areas. Cranes are no exception to this.

Farmers and crane conservation organisations, including the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT), have been working together for more than 25 years to prevent the extinction of cranes. All three of South Africa’s crane species suffered major declines, estimated to be up to 80% in some areas of the country, over the last 3 decades. The declines were mainly attributed to habitat loss, poisoning (accidental and/or intentional) and collisions with overhead powerlines. Over the years, conservation efforts have been focussed on addressing major threats such as poisoning and powerline collisions. These conservation efforts involved environmental education and awareness, practical actions to protect species and habitats and adoption of improved land management systems. The annual KwaZulu-Natal crane aerial survey, in its 21st year this year, has shown that populations of all three cranes in KwaZulu Natal Province are stable. Results of the surveys have revealed that Grey Crowned and Wattled Cranes are increasing in the province. Of greatest significance in 2014 was the recording, for the first time in over three decades, of over 300 Wattled Cranes in the province. An aerial survey team comprising staff from the EWT and Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife team counted 311 Wattled Cranes between the northern boundary of KwaZulu Natal and Mpumalanga/Free State and the southern border between KwaZulu Natal and the Eastern Cape. This is significantly higher than the 261 Wattled Cranes counted during the previous year’s survey. It also indicates the high number of chicks that were produced and survived over the last few years. For example, the last two years have seen at least 40 chicks fledge, with a very high survival rate (~95%) to ‘adulthood’.

The author with a farmer after ringing a Wattled Crane chick


The halt in decline of cranes, at least in KwaZulu Natal, has been as a result of concerted efforts to address the major threats facing cranes and other similar species. Intentional poisonings are now a rare occurrence and responsible pesticide use is common practice among farmers. Furthermore, Eskom has contributed significantly by marking hundreds of kilometres of powerlines in order to reduce the threat of collisions with overhead powerlines. The EWT, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife and KZN Crane Foundation advise farmers on appropriate or compatible habitat management practices. These organisations are also actively promoting Biodiversity Stewardship, which is a process aimed at securing critical habitat and biodiversity on farmlands. It is the key mechanism through which farmers can contribute to the conservation of biodiversity and the ecosystems on which cranes and people depend.

Working with farmers and other landowners over the last 25 years to conserve cranes and their habitats has highlighted the invaluable role that farmers play in conserving biodiversity, and especially those components of biodiversity that are not well represented in our protected area network. Farmers and other landowners, including forestry and communities, are thus the key partners in conservation efforts throughout the country and within KwaZulu-Natal.

Mapping threats to Grey Crowned Cranes in eastern Uganda: Results of a rapid survey to inform conservation action

William OlupotDirector, Nature and Livelihoods, Uganda

Email: [email protected] or [email protected]

BackgroundThis article summarizes results and recommendations of a survey of Grey Crowned Cranes conducted in eastern Uganda in 2014. It highlights threats that the species faces in wetlands and agricultural landscapes due to human activities. The survey was one of the highest resolution assessments of the distribution of Grey Crowned Cranes in the eastern region of Uganda to date. It was also the first systematic attempt to identify and characterise roosting sites of cranes in the country.

Wetlands are a common feature in eastern Uganda. Based on GIS data generated by the Wetlands Management Department of the Ugandan Ministry of Water and Environment in 2008, the region is endowed with expansive landscapes with probably a greater surface area of wetland in comparison to the country’s four other regions. Generally, prior to this study, little was known about occurrence of cranes in the wetlands of this region though previous studies had confirmed the occurrence of cranes mainly at two rice schemes (Doho and Kibimba), with scant data on the species’ occurrence elsewhere.

With technical support from the International Crane Foundation and the Endangered Wildlife Trust Partnership, and funding from the North Carolina Zoo, Nature and Livelihoods conducted an assessment of Grey Crowned Cranes in 13 Districts of Eastern Uganda in May and June 2014. The goal of the survey was to map and prioritize by threat, locations for targeted conservation action and to shed some light on the crane distribution. Cranes were surveyed in two study areas in three wetland systems. Data were collected at 35 sites through interviewing people at each site, direct observations, and interviews with district environmental and natural resource officers.

Results Cranes were observed at all wetlands surveyed, usually in small flocks averaging 6 (foraging) and 8 (roosting). Breeding was reported at all wetlands, with 11 events observed over the last two years. Seven major threats were reported. Habitat loss to farming was the most visible and widespread of all threats. Other threats included collection of chicks for rearing within the rural areas, intentional and unintentional poisoning, persistent human presence in wetlands as villagers perform farming tasks, long distance trade in crane products, and fire outbreaks in the wetlands during dry seasons.

Another potential but hitherto little known reported threat was loss of sites used by cranes for sheltering from the midday sun, a factor that may be crucial to crane conservation in warmer areas and during dry periods. Results from interviews suggested that such sites are typically located remotely from areas frequented by humans but because of extensive loss of wetlands outside in recent years, such sites may be rare. The other interesting observation related to threats was that the availability of trees for roosting did not seem to be a problem as the commonly used trees were observed in the areas surveyed. Rather, it was the lack of security in those trees which was a roosting threat. Human-crane conflict was noted to be insignificant and therefore not a threat to cranes in this region.


A pair of tame Grey Crowned Cranes at one of the sites surveyed

RecommendationsSuggestions on how to address the data gaps and alleviate threats that were observed during the survey are presented below. Research There is need to undertake further studies to; (i) identify main concentrations of different flock types within the region and throughout the country, (ii) understand impacts of each of the identified threats, (iii) clarify implications of wetland farming on crane conservation, and its links to wetland degradation.

Conservation ActionIt is important to take steps to minimise harm and disturbance to cranes at sites used for breeding, foraging, roosting, and sheltering from the afternoon sun. There is also a need to develop measures to minimize intentional or unintentional poisoning, and hunting of cranes and other wetland species. Regular monitoring of the nature and severity of threats as well as the status of populations at different sites is critical. It is imperative to work with land owners to retain existing roosting trees on private lands and to ensure security of cranes when they use the trees. To maintain breeding habitats for cranes, it is necessary to reduce river bank cultivation, promote sustainable agricultural practices in wetlands used for farming, set aside areas for breeding and roosting of cranes and other wetland birds, and securing nests located in crop fields. Enforcing existing wetland regulations, designating some wetlands as potential spots for wetland-based tourism and integrating elements of crane conservation into all wetland management plans may translate into positive crane and wetland conservation impacts.


Kerryn MorrisonICF/EWT Partnership

African Crane Conservation ProgrammePrivate Bag X11, Modderfontein, 1645, South Africa

Tel: +27 (0) 11 372 3600Fax: +27 (0) 11 608 4682Cell: +27 (0) 82 877 5126

Email: [email protected] / [email protected]

african cranes, wetlands and communities

Documents