We are working in this area to help local communities and animals to live in harmony, so that the livelihoods can be improved, while enabling wildlife to continue to use the habitat that remains intact.
Conservation efforts are key to the survival of a vast array of declining species. As such it is vital that we equip future generations with the skills and knowledge required to preserve not only the larger more charismatic animals, but also the smaller inhabitants of the area. Through the practical application of a series of surveying and monitoring techniques, we aim to provide a basis of understanding that will enable you to pursue a career in conservation or simply introduce broader conservation issues facing our most threatened species.
Much of Africa’s wildlife is under threat and as habitats shrink and human environments grow there is more frequent contact between wildlife and local people. This can cause conflict, which has a negative impact on both the wildlife and villagers. Our project is working closely with local villagers to find a way to address this issue and to allow wildlife and people to share the land and its resources. As part of your training on this valuable and exciting project you will have the opportunity to handle a number of interesting amphibians, birds and small mammals.
You might also be interviewing local villagers or teaching at local education days about the conservation value of the species found on Mafia Island. As you develop an eclectic range of surveying & monitoring techniques and how to work with local communities you will be helping to conserve the remaining habitat and the animals it supports and also to ensure that local communities are closely involved in conservation activities. Mafia Island has had little previous scientific exploration, and as such the work that you will be a part of conducting will go towards increasing the species lists for the island and reducing the knowledge gaps that exist for species across Tanzania and Africa.
The work you carry out will be rewarding and exciting, and hugely beneficial to Mafia Island Marine Park's conservation efforts, as well as being amazing fun! At the end of the day you will gain immense satisfaction from knowing that you have helped to save this precious island wilderness, protecting it for future generations.
WHAT WILL I BE DOING?
The Frontier-Tanzania Wildlife Project is an African conservation and community development initiative which aims to gather scientifically valid information to help local villagers and government bodies plan their conservation and development activities. By surveying habitats, wildlife and local livelihoods in the area, the project has helped establish plans to protect precious species while at the same time encouraging community development strategies that address local needs. By working closely with local villagers we are also helping to ensure they play a central role to ensure their views are heard. You will be adding to the species list for Mafia Island as it is previously unexplored.
The main focus of your time at the Frontier Tanzania Wildlife Project will be learning a variety of techniques required to effectively monitor local biodiversity. This includes conducting a range of wildlife and socio-economic surveys to help gather management data required. We utilise a multitude of trapping techniques allowing you to get up close and personal with stunning frogs, birds and maybe the occasional monkey!
You will be living in the heart of the local community on a small camp situated close to the beach. You will be surveying the wildlife and in and around the village of Utende and you may even get the chance to do some surveys inside the small remaining coastal forest on the island. You may also be involved in conservation awareness days at local schools?
If this is your first time doing field research and conservation work, don't worry! It will only take a short while for you to feel totally at home on camp and confident with your grasp of the scientific techniques. The work is intense and challenging but you'll get immense satisfaction from living and working on the island and from having made a valuable contribution to the conservation of this important ecosystem and the livelihoods of the people who live there. You will return home with the new friends you have made and a wealth of incredible memories, photos and videos from this experience of a lifetime!
You'll find your team to be young, fun and dynamic comprising a mix of ages and experiences, with members who all share a passion for travelling in developing countries and saving endangered wildlife and habitats. Your staff will be young, friendly individuals who are highly experienced in their field and some may have volunteered with Frontier at the start of their careers.
