International Crane Foundation

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This month we started physical restoration actions including mimosa pigra clearance and planting indigenous trees as part of the Kiyanja-Kaku Wetland Restoration Project in Lwengo District, Uganda! The goal of the project is to increase the food security and resilience of farming communities and enhance the health of the Kiyanja-Kaku wetland. With incredible support from community members, we’ve taken big steps toward reclaiming the wetland’s natural balance. Volunteers led the charge in removing invasive species like Mimosa pigra, and over 5,000 indigenous trees—including Ficus natalensis, Mimusops emini, and Markhamia lutea—were planted along the wetland's edges. Special thanks to Conservation International, our Sponsor for the support. 📷 Gilbert Tayebwa/ International Crane Foundation/ Endangered Wildlife Trust

In a significant step forward for conservation and community partnership within the Kafue Flats, 48 out of 50 Field Officers ( Wildlife Police Officers & Community Scouts) recently underwent Human Rights training in Lochinvar National Park, Zambia as part of our commitment to upholding human rights. The goal of the training was to equip Field Officers with knowledge on human rights to ensure that they observe human rights as they perform their duties of combating wildlife crime. The training was conducted under the auspices of the Kafue Flats Restoration Partnership (KFRP), a consortium led by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife and the other members being International Crane Foundation and World Wildlife Fund and funded by the Chauncey and Marion D. McCormick Family Foundation. The course was conducted in conjunction with the Human Rights Commission of Zambia. Equipped with new knowledge and skills, the dedicated field team is better prepared to protect our precious wildlife while respecting human rights. Together, we are building a safer, more just future for both people and wildlife under the recently launched 20-year collaborative management partnership agreement for the sustainable management and restoration of the Kafue Flats. 📷 Nasson Tembo/ International Crane Foundation/ Endangered Wildlife Trust

We’re excited to announce that we've empowered 50 farmers in Nandi County, Kenya with essential knowledge on climate-smart agriculture! Through the Farmer Field School – a hands-on learning platform – these farmers are gaining practical skills in adoption of climate smart, agro-ecology farming practices for small scale farmers. They’re now using space maximization techniques, vertical and pyramid gardens for urban kitchen setups, soil water conservation, organic fertilization, and eco-friendly pest control. By adopting these practices, farmers are boosting production, enhancing family nutrition with organic foods, and enjoying year-round food security. Plus, they’re creating a welcoming environment for local crane populations. Much appreciation to the Leiden Conservation Foundation for supporting this noble cause. Together, we’re building a resilient future for both communities and ecosystems! 📷 Neema Obiero/ International Crane Foundation/ Endangered Wildlife Trust

📷 Grey Crowned Cranes feeding on a wetland patch in a human dominated landscape in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya. The degradation and loss of wetlands due to agriculture, urban development, and industrialization have forced cranes to adapt. Cranes are known for their selective breeding habitats, typically choosing wide, open wetlands and marshy landscapes that provide them with ample cover and food sources for raising their young. Recently, we have observed Grey Crowned Cranes are adapting to breed in typical locations due to environmental pressures, habitat loss, and climate change. In regions where wetlands have been drained or fragmented, cranes are increasingly nesting in upland areas, small ponds, rice paddies, and even human-made water bodies like reservoirs. As human activities expand into crane territories, they are observed breeding closer to human settlements and areas with high human activity. In some cases, cranes have even chosen agricultural fields or areas near towns for nesting. Though this proximity to people presents risks, such as disturbance and predation, it also highlights cranes' ability to adjust their behaviours when natural habitats become scarce. While breeding in unusual places is a testament to cranes' resilience, it also signals the broader impact of environmental changes. Addressing these challenges requires both habitat restoration and innovative conservation approaches to support these remarkable birds in a rapidly changing world. 📷 Vivian Nekesa/ International Crane Foundation/ Endangered Wildlife Trust

Through the People, Health, and Environment (PHE) approach, we collaborate closely with local health workers in Rwanda who are dedicated to improving community well-being. Their focus spans crucial health-related activities like malnutrition, family planning, and addressing broader health concerns. We’re therefore, excited to share that 115 families in Ruhunde Sector, Burera District have received valuable training on preparing nutritious meals using vegetables and mushrooms from their home gardens! With support from International Crane Foundation in partnership with Endangered Wildlife Trust, a kitchen expert led the training, focusing on fighting malnutrition and promoting balanced diets, all while supporting the conservation of the Grey Crowned Cranes. This initiative empowered families to bridge gaps in mushroom preparation, utilizing this protein-rich, affordable food source ($1.5–$2.5/kg) compared to meat ($4.5/kg). It’s part of a larger mission to improve food security, health, and biodiversity. Special thanks to Burera District Vice Mayor of Economic Affairs for supporting this impactful event! 📷 Maurice Ngiramahoro/ International Crane Foundation/ Endangered Wildlife Trust

Milestone Reached in the Kiyanja-Kaku Wetland Restoration Project! This week, our team and the incredible local communities in Lwengo took another big step toward restoring the Kiyanja-Kaku Wetland, with generous support from Conservation International! Together, we’re creating a sustainable future by rejuvenating this essential habitat and supporting the people who rely on it. We equipped 175 individuals with essential restoration tools and protective gear—boots, overalls, helmets, gloves, and more—to empower our community champions in wetland preservation. Additionally, 52 Village Wetland Management Committee members received uniforms and ID cards, proudly branded by International Crane Foundation in partnership with Endangered Wildlife Trust and Conservation International, honoring them as heroes of conservation. Next up: combating invasive species like Mimosa pigra to restore biodiversity and protect habitats, including those for our cherished Grey Crowned Cranes! This project is about more than conservation—it’s about communities and nature flourishing together. 📷 Gilbert Tayebwa/ International Crane Foundation/ Endangered Wildlife Trust

Exciting news from Zambia! With support from the JRS Biodiversity Foundation, the International Crane Foundation (ICF) is advancing research on a number of taxa occurring on the Kafue Flats, not only on avifauna, but herpetofauna, aquatic fauna and mammals as well. During our recent field assessment, we deployed camera traps to uncover the elusive nocturnal mammals of the region. We're thrilled to share that we recorded 8 fascinating species, including the Side-Striped Jackal, Honey Badger, Cape Porcupine, Aardvark, Four-toed Elephant Shrew, African Genet, African Civet, and Serval Cat! These findings highlight the incredible biodiversity of Zambia and the importance of ongoing research to protect these amazing creatures. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue our journey to safeguard wildlife! 📷 Douglas Munenga/ International Crane Foundation/ Endangered Wildlife Trust

Major Milestone Achieved in Rwanda! We are thrilled to announce that International Crane Foundation now has a registered office in Rwanda! Since 2012, we have been dedicated to supporting Rwanda's crane conservation efforts, and this milestone brings us closer to our goal of creating a better world for cranes and all wildlife. Together, we are making significant progress toward a brighter, more sustainable future. Thank you for being a part of this journey! International Crane Foundation/ @EndangeredWildlifeTrust 📷 Charles Kayijamahe

🎓 Huge congratulations to Phionah Orishaba, our incredible Senior Field Officer in Southwestern Uganda, on achieving her Master of Science in Environmental and Natural Sciences! Your hard work and dedication continue to inspire us, and we’re so proud of your commitment to advancing environmental knowledge and sustainable practices. Well done, Phionah! International Crane Foundation/ @EndangeredWildlifeTrust 📷 Phionah Orishaba