Mara Elephant Project is filled with gratitude for the incredible partnerships, initiatives, and milestones that defined 2024. From conservation awareness events to impactful youth education programs, strategic fundraising efforts, and the inauguration of our new headquarters, MEP celebrates the collective efforts that continue to drive forward elephant and habitat conservation.
In October, MEP Deputy Chair Kevin Rodrigues and CEO Marc Goss represented the organization at a Ree Park Safari event in Denmark. The event, which included live music and an auction, raised funds to support Ree Park Safari’s ongoing conservation work. A heartfelt thank you to Karsten Ree and his family, as well as the entire Ree Park Safari team, for their unwavering commitment to wildlife protection and for including MEP in this meaningful gathering.
One of the highlights of the evening was the auctioning of a bespoke MEP wristwatch crafted by renowned German watchmaker Tutima Glashütte. As a proud brand ambassador, Marc was thrilled to witness the enthusiasm surrounding this exclusive timepiece. The lucky winner, Christian Ree, took home a unique symbol of his support for elephant conservation. MEP extends its deepest gratitude to Tutima for their continued collaboration in advancing its mission.
Two dedicated members of the MEP herd joined forces with Children in the Wilderness (CITW) for an immersive conservation camp at Governors’ Camp. Thirty eager students from Mara Rianda Primary School participated in a two-day program designed to deepen their understanding of the wildlife they coexist with. In collaboration with the Mara Predator Conservation Programme and the Kenya Bird of Prey Trust, MEP emphasised the critical role of species protection. “We are nurturing the future generation of conservation leaders by taking students from grade six, seven, and eight and turning them into passionate young conservationists and change-makers in their communities,” shared CITW Community Coordinator Sharon Muthoni.
MEP’s Grants Manager Meshack Gaga participated in the 30th East Africa Resource Mobilization Workshop in November 2024 in an event that brought together NGOs, fundraising professionals, donors, and corporate stakeholders to discuss the latest trends and challenges in resource mobilisation. The knowledge and strategies gained from this workshop will be instrumental in securing sustainable funding and forging key partnerships to expand MEP’s impact in the Greater Mara Ecosystem.
As curtains came to a close in 2024, MEP members of staff and other stakeholders gathered to celebrate the official opening of the new MEP headquarters office in Lemek Conservancy. To honor employees’ hard work, Kevin alongside Advisory Committee members Loic Amado, Valery Super and Teddy Kinyanjui joined Marc in announcing the award of promotions and bonuses.
MEP also received a record level of support in the fourth quarter setting the organization up for success in 2025.
