The home, territory to one of the biggest vervet monkey, baboon populations in the Laikipia-Isiolo-Samburu ecosystems. A vast ,dense wetland discharging a huge water volume ..Hosting different species of birds and plants, including some of the rarest and endangered. Located in the border of Meru and Isiolo counties – upstream of Isiolo River. The Enkapune (cave in Maasai language)spring plays a vital role in the being and flow of Isiolo River. Over years ,this crucial piece of biodiversity has been exposed to the worst of destructive human activity. From native trees being cleared for timber, charcoal burning and a turned into a grazing field/cultivation land by the adjacent farmers. The level of degradation that has taken place is massive .Osinoni took the initiative of fencing the spring a few months ago. A vigorous restoration exercise that included digging of tree holes so as to afforest the space back to its natural, former self.
On 11th January 2024,more than 600 trees were planted jointly by KWS,Osinoni with the local community as well. The KWS team led by the most senior officers ; in their full combat and armed with gardening apparatus stormed the spring passionately ready to do their part in protecting, rehabilitating the wetland. Joined by the Osinoni team, the day was successful. Both partners agreed to complement each other’s efforts with the key being KWS committing to patrol the spring and entire river to curb any illegal activities.Osinoni is engaging other partners to ensure that the monkeys are protected and a feeding program introduced in the long-term to reduce cases of Human-wildlife conflict with the many farmers around. On the same note, more than 1000 guavas would be planted in the spring so that the animals can have enough food in their pristine habitat in a few years to come. Want to play a role in the conservation of the Enkapune spring? Reach out and be part of the great efforts to bring back biodiversity!
