How can 8-year-old
children become integrally involved in wildlife management in one of
the last four remaining pristine tropical forests, home to one of the
world’s highest levels of biodiversity? Through the North Rupunini
District’s Junior Wildlife Clubs of Guyana, the Makushi youth
of the district play a larger role in the conservation of their traditional
land.
The Wildlife Clubs were created in 2000 through a partnership of the
Iwokrama International Centre and the North Rupunini District Development
Board. The clubs involve youth as an integral part of existing wildlife
management and monitoring programs through hands-on experience. The
“Annual Wildlife Conservation Festival” brings together
250 ecologically aware youths to celebrate the rich biodiversity of
Guyana and promote the values of conservation and sustainability through
performances and educational activities.
By involving youth in wildlife management, the region is preparing for
the future and ensuring the continuity of natural resource management
programmes.
