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The Giraffe Center stands as a remarkable testament to conservation efforts aimed at protecting one of Africa’s most iconic creatures—the giraffe. Nestled in the heart of Kenya. Spanning over 120 acres of natural habitat, this unique center offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to interact with these gentle giants up close. In this article, we will talk about the fascinating world of the Giraffe Center, exploring its mission, conservation initiatives, visitor experiences, and the profound impact it has had on giraffe populations in Kenya.
A Haven for Giraffes
The Giraffe Center, located in Nairobi, Kenya, is an essential sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of endangered Rothschild’s giraffes. Initially established by the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW) in 1979, the center has played a pivotal role in safeguarding these majestic creatures from habitat loss and poaching threats. Its primary objective is to raise public awareness about giraffe conservation while providing a safe environment for their protection and breeding.
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How it Began
The sad plight of the Rothschild’s giraffe sparked Jock and Betty Leslie-Melville to build this most unusual sanctuary in 1979. There were only 130 giraffes left in Africa, where they had once been numerous.
Two of the baby giraffes, Daisy and Marlon, were moved by Jock and Betty to their large property in Nairobi’s Lang’ata neighborhood. Here they started a fruitful breeding program that is still going strong today.
Jock formally established the umbrella organization African Fund for Endangered Wildlife (AFEW) to raise money for the initiative. But this unusual sanctuary is known as The Giraffe Center to its supporters, friends, and guests.
Evolving into an Education Centre
Jock and Betty Leslie-Melville quickly saw the value of preserving Kenya’s wildlife and teaching the country’s youth about their heritage after establishing the sanctuary. So, in 1983, a facility for environmental education was established, and excursions were made available to Kenya’s youth for free. Over 50,000 children learn about the giraffe and environmental conservation techniques every year.
This is in addition to the 40,000 general public visitors who come each year to enjoy and learn from the Center’s various resources.
Visitors get knowledge about the care given to giraffe calves before their release into the wild when they are two to three years old and capable of surviving.
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Conservation Efforts
The Giraffe Center has been instrumental in spearheading various conservation initiatives. Through captive breeding programs, the center has successfully reintroduced giraffes into the wild, contributing significantly to the growth of its population. Additionally, it collaborates with local communities and government agencies to address the underlying causes of giraffe endangerment, such as habitat encroachment and illegal hunting. The center actively engages in educational programs, offering school visits and guided tours to raise awareness among students and visitors. By showcasing the giraffes’ behavior, biology, and ecological importance, the center inspires a sense of responsibility and promotes sustainable practices.
Up Close and Personal
Visiting the Giraffe Center provides a unique opportunity for individuals to encounter giraffes firsthand. The center’s raised platform allows visitors to feed the giraffes, giving them an up-close experience unlike any other. Witnessing the grace and elegance of these creatures while feeding them from your hand is an unforgettable moment that fosters a deep connection with nature.
Moreover, visitors can enjoy guided nature walks through the center’s scenic forest trails, further immersing themselves in the giraffes’ natural habitat. Knowledgeable guides share fascinating insights into giraffe behavior, habitat conservation, and the center’s ongoing efforts to protect these beautiful animals.
Impact and Success
Over the years, the Giraffe Center has achieved remarkable milestones in giraffe conservation. By diligently working towards increasing the giraffe population, the center has successfully contributed to the recovery of Rothschild’s giraffes in Kenya. The reintroduction of these giraffes into protected areas has not only restored their natural habitats but has also revived local ecosystems.
The center’s collaborative approach with local communities and government agencies has fostered sustainable conservation practices. It has empowered communities to actively participate in safeguarding giraffes and their habitats, thereby ensuring the long-term survival of these gentle giants.
The Giraffe Center in Kenya stands as a beacon of hope for giraffes, providing a safe haven for their conservation and inspiring visitors to become stewards of the environment. Through its educational programs, guided tours, and hands-on experiences, the center offers a transformative journey, deepening our appreciation for these magnificent creatures and the urgent need to protect them.
As we continue to support and engage with initiatives like the Giraffe Center, we can ensure a brighter future for giraffes in Kenya and beyond. By championing conservation efforts and promoting sustainable practices, we can secure a world where giraffes can thrive in their natural habitats for generations to come.
Things to Do and See
- Tea House– In addition to its feeding platform, giraffe watching and nature trails, The Centre offers more giraffe viewing from its Tea House, with refreshments and relaxing vistas.
- Daisy Zoovenir Shop – Named for Daisy – one of The Centre’s original inhabitants – the gift shop is a popular stop for memorabilia. The Centre gets 90 percent of its revenue from entrance fees and sales from the gift shop.
- Books, Posters & Literature – The Centre creates a variety of informative materials such as its Nature Trail Guidebook, manuals on conservation practices, and environmental awareness posters.
- Giraffe Manor – Located adjacent to the Giraffe Centre, this Tudor-style boutique hotel may be the most unique accommodation in the world. Here it is not unusual to enjoy breakfast as a towering giraffe sticks its head through the window to inspect your eggs and toast.
How to access The Giraffe Centre
Look for Matatu Number 124/125 (combined number). The second Matatu will be taken once you arrive at the Galleria Mall in Kenya. Walk towards the Galleria Mall and you will see the Matatu station that you will take to the Giraffe Center(20-40 shillings).
You will locate the Giraffe Centre on Nyumbi Road, off Duma Road in Nairobi’s Lang’ata suburb. The Girraffee Center is fifteen Kilometers from Nairobi’s City Centre. Google Maps will lead you right to their doorstep. Enjoy.
