KULINDA DUNIA YETU (PROTECT OUR EARTH) // 2020. Oil on canvas, 30 x 40 inches

The restoration of the western Serengeti’s African elephant population has been one of The Grumeti Fund’s greatest success stories. This painting was designed to celebrate that success as well as the triumph of the species itself. Despite the persistent threat of poaching to wildlife populations across Africa, the elephant population in this area has increased fourfold since 2003 as a result of Grumeti Fund interventions. You’ll notice a shadowy figure in the background, too - the Grumeti Fund infiltrates former poachers into its anti-poaching game scout unit, arming them not only with an understanding of the economic benefits of wildlife protection, but also with a secure employment alternative. The Grumeti Fund has also introduced a canine detection and tracking unit of highly trained dogs who, under guidance of their skilled handlers, keep a watchful eye over wildlife populations. “Kulinda dunia yetu” is Swahili for “protect our earth,” a message that transcends all areas of Grumeti’s programming and one that serves as a good reminder to us all.