This quarter we’re celebrating not just one, but two conservation champions at GZT! Not only was the dedication of our longest-serving female Scout rewarded, but the achievements of our Wamba Regional Coordinator, Andrew Letura, were also recognised when he received the Houston Zoo Wildlife Warrior Award! Wildlife Warriors are chosen from the staff of the Houston Zoo’s wildlife conservation partners working with many species all over the world.
Andrew Letura is from Samburu, northern Kenya. Growing up next to Samburu National Reserve, he was always interested in wildlife. After completing a guiding course, Andrew studied wildlife management but couldn’t complete the degree because of financial difficulties. He was working as a tour guide when he jumped at the chance to volunteer with GZT on a Master’s project. In November 2011, Andrew was formally employed by GZT as Research Assistant. In this role, Andrew tirelessly sought out Grevy’s zebra on his motorbike to photograph their stripe patterns. This was incredibly demanding, and often we wouldn’t recognize him covered head to toe in dust! Through this project, Andrew developed a passion for Grevy’s zebra, resulting in his promotion to GZT Wamba Regional Coordinator, running the Scout Program.
Andrew oversees 29 scouts (19 women and 10 men), training and supporting them in monitoring, data collection, and conservation outreach. Andrew is proud that this program empowers local women. “The Scout Program is the conservation voice of pastoral women. These women no longer feel side-lined during decision-making, and their status as scouts means they are involved in community meetings.”
Andrew engages local communities and schools in conservation outreach activities. He says this is one of the best parts of his job, as he sees people’s attitudes changing as their understanding improves.
Andrew also follows up on any injured Grevy’s zebra found in Wamba, sometimes pitching camp and staying with the animal for days until veterinary assistance arrives. These experiences have deepened his bond with Grevy’s zebra.
Andrew’s positivity, commitment and passion for conservation make him a true champion for Grevy’s zebra and a deserved winner of the Wildlife Warrior Award.
