Maasai Sambu tells of the importance of elephant conservation and reflects on the surprise he experienced on his first visit to Hong Kong, which is a key transit market for ivory. He speaks on his fight to stop illegal wildlife poaching, which started in 2009, and the lessons he learned along the way. He campaigns at the global hubs of the ivory trade, aiming to influence local governments. He sees a possible solution in banning the ivory trade, which would send an important message to the regional markets. The ivory trade through Hong Kong has now been banned, though coming into full effect in 2021.
Mr Mwenda then speaks of his work at the Endangered Species Enclosure at Ol Pejeta, Kenia. He focuses on his close connection with “Sudan”, the last male northern white rhino, who was euthanized at 45-years in March of this year. Mr Mwenda outlines that this poses a serious threat to the survival of the species and reflects on the relationship he had with Sudan. Based on his experience as Sudan’s caregiver, he draws attention to the conservation challenges faced today, and informs the audience how scientists hope to save the species.
Daniel Ole Sambu is a senior member of the Big Life Foundation. This is his fourth trip to Hong Kong and over the last four years he visited over 40 schools and 13,000 students in Hong Kong and Singapore. Maasai Sambu is also the head of the Predator Protection Programme at Big Life Foundation, being instrumental in rebuilding the lion population and working with the wildlife. A Maasai Warrior himself, he is very actively involved with the Maasai Olympics and travels extensively around the world promoting conservation.
James Mwenda is originally from Meru, Kenya, and works as a rhino-caregiver at the Endangered Species Enclosure at the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, taking care of the last surviving northern white rhinos on the planet.
Members, guests and others are most welcome to attend this talk, which is HK$150 for Members and HK$200 for guests and others including a glass of red or white wine. This event is free of charge for Student Members.
The Royal Geographical Society - Hong Kong wishes to express its thanks to Jacada Travel for its generous assistance with this talk.
