YALA IBA
As an IBA, Yala swamp is a haven endowed with some of the most fascinating variety of birds. A number of bird enthusiasts visit Yala swamp to enjoy bird watching, and there are existing opportunities in recognizing the value of birds including generating income from ecotourism with birds as a tourist attraction.
Past WMBD events
The Site Support Group (SSG) together with other stakeholders have conducted some general awareness on the importance of conserving Yala swamp including preserving vital bird/wildlife habitats during important environment events such as the World Environment Day, World Migratory Bird Day, etc. However, more awareness creation on the value of birds for local communities needs to been done to guarantee the survival of birds and other biodiversity which is a natural heritage that the tourism industry depends on.
EVENT DESCRIPTION
AIMS & OBJECTIVES
Yala Ecosystem Site Support Group in collaboration with stakeholders in Siaya County are organizing an event to celebrate the World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD). To create awareness on the value of birds which will guarantee survival of the Yala swamp’s threatened endemic and restricted range bird species. These birds are a big tourist attraction with a potential for ecotourism to benefit the local communities and earn the county some revenue
Objectives of the event are:
- To raise awareness highlighting the need for the protection of migratory birds and their habitats
- To create awareness on the value of birds to the local community including ecotourism benefits
- To educate community members including school children on the importance of conservation of Yala swamp as an Important Bird Area
Event target
The event targets 500 participants including community members living around the swamp, Community Based Organizations (CBOs), school children from 19 schools within the swamp area, Local Area Administrative Officers, the County Government of Siaya, Government conservation agencies, Private Companies and other stakeholders within Siaya County.
EXPECTED OUTPUT
Create awareness on the value of birds and how community members can take advantage of existing opportunities to benefit from tourism activities. Further, the event will be used as an avenue to promote ecotourism as an alternative source of livelihood that is non-consumptive with benefits both for the community and conservation.