Tlokoeng Valley Biodiversity Conservation

The Tlokoeng Valley Biodiversity Conservation Programme aimed to conserve biodiversity and wetlands while promoting ecotourism. This initiative not only safeguarded biodiversity but also alleviated poverty in the surrounding communities. The programme was led by youth in Tlokoeng Valley in collaboration with the RCE Lesotho research team. Learners from the National University of Lesotho also occasionally participated in the programme as academic visitors during their field trips.

Since its inception in 2012 as a project supported by the United Nations Development Programme – Small Grants Programme, the programme has facilitated important biodiversity activities through education, research, awareness-building, networking, and the production of locally relevant training materials. Key outcomes included the identification of breeding sites for the rare bird species native to Southern Africa, such as the Southern Bald Ibis and three owl species, efforts to conserve several vital wetlands, a deeper appreciation of intricate food web interconnections among valley species, and a more conscious application of the Botho/Ubuntu philosophy to conserve the valley’s ecological assets. The programme has attracted university students, lecturers, researchers, tourists, and relevant government departments for study, collaboration, and support.