MARA EYE

21/07/2026

URGENT: HUMAN - WILDLIFE CONFLICT IN ISIKETA
Today, a family in Isiketa suffered significant losses after a hyena reportedly broke into a sheep enclosure and killed several shoats. According to local residents, this is believed to be the same hyena that has repeatedly entered homesteads, carrying away livestock and even household utensils, an unusual pattern of bold behaviour that has caused growing fear within the community.

This incident underscores the urgent need for timely intervention to safeguard both human lives and livelihoods. A predator that repeatedly loses its fear of human settlements increases the risk of more serious encounters if appropriate measures are not taken.
As THE MARA EYE CBO, we call upon the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), Mara Predator Conservation Programme, African Wildlife Foundation (AWF), and all relevant conservation and wildlife management stakeholders to urgently assess the situation, implement effective mitigation measures, and help prevent further attacks.

We also appeal for fair and timely compensation for the affected family. Communities living alongside wildlife continue to shoulder the cost of conservation through repeated livestock losses. Sustainable conservation can only succeed when local communities are protected, supported, and treated fairly.
Human-wildlife coexistence requires shared responsibility. Protecting wildlife must go hand in hand with protecting the people who have long lived alongside it.

THE MARA EYE CBO
Protecting Nature : Empowering Lives
Kenya Wildlife Service KWS
Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife - Kenya
Kenya Wildlife service KWS
African Wildlife Foundation
Kenya Wildlife Trust
IMPACT_KENYA
Mara Predator Conservation Programme

19/07/2026

STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY GOVERNANCE FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE.

THE MARA EYE Community-Based Organization (CBO) congratulates the members of Naboisho Conservancy for successfully convening their Annual General Meeting (AGM) following the recently concluded conservancy elections.

The AGM marked an important milestone in reinforcing democratic governance, accountability, transparency, and member participation through the official confirmation of the newly elected Board of Trustees, who now assume the functionalities of providing strategic leadership and oversight for the conservancy.
Strong institutions are built on free, fair, transparent, and inclusive governance processes. Such leadership not only safeguards the interests of members but also strengthens conservation efforts, promotes sustainable natural resource management, and enhances the long-term resilience of both communities and wildlife.

We particularly celebrate the confirmation of Mr. Daniel Maitai as the Secretary of the Board of Trustees. His election reflects the growing confidence in youth leadership and demonstrates the important role that young people continue to play in shaping the future of community institutions. Empowering young leaders is essential for ensuring innovation, continuity, and responsive governance within conservation landscapes.

For many years, Naboisho Conservancy has remained at the forefront of advancing community-centered conservation by balancing biodiversity protection with the socio-economic interests of its members. This commitment has contributed significantly to wildlife conservation, sustainable tourism, community development, and the protection of livelihoods within the Greater Mara ecosystem.

As THE MARA EYE CBO, we recognize that accountable leadership, meaningful community participation, and transparent governance are indispensable pillars for successful conservation. When communities actively participate in decision-making and their voices are respected, conservation becomes more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable.

We extend our sincere congratulations to the newly confirmed Board of Trustees and wish them wisdom, integrity, and success as they undertake this important responsibility. We also commend every member of Naboisho Conservancy for their active participation, trust, and continued commitment to strengthening the institution.
Together, let us continue building conservation models that uphold good governance, protect biodiversity, empower communities, and secure a sustainable future for generations to come.

THE MARA EYE – Community-Based Organization (CBO)
Protecting Nature : Empowering Lives
Naboisho Conservancy Masai Mara

19/07/2026

MENTORING TODAY'S YOUTH FOR A BETTER TOMORROW.

Over the weekend, THE MARA EYE Community-Based Organization (CBO) was privileged to participate in the MAA Mentorship Program (MMP) held in Thika West Sub-county. The remarkable gathering brought together students from over 15 Campuses and colleges within the Maa community, providing a valuable platform for learning, leadership, networking, and purposeful dialogue.

We were honoured to engage alongside distinguished leaders, including
Hon David Muntet CECM Minister for Finance - Narok County; Hon Susan Kutingala Member of the Narok County Assembly; Bishop John Ole Koina and S. K. Kajwang, President Emeritus of Mount Kenya University and CEO of A New Nation.
One of the most powerful lessons shared throughout the mentorship was the distinction between ambition and purpose. As Hon. David Muntet encouraged the youth:
"Do not only pursue ambition -pursue purpose. Know who you are, understand your values, and remain focused on making a meaningful impact."
The discussions challenged young people to become solution-oriented leaders -individuals ready to identify community challenges, take responsibility, and actively contribute to lasting solutions rather than waiting for change.

In a remarkable demonstration of servant leadership, Hon David Muntet also extended financial support to students who were unable to clear their school fee balances, reaffirming the importance of investing in education and empowering the next generation.

Bishop Ole Koina offered prayers for leaders serving in different capacities and reminded them that leadership must always be anchored in honesty, integrity, humility, and accountability. He further urged young people to reject drug and substance abuse, remain committed to their education, identify the challenges affecting their communities, and prepare themselves to become part of the solutions.

Through insights from his book, A New Nation, S. K. Kajwang inspired participants to envision a society founded on justice, equity, equality, responsible citizenship, and transformational leadership. He challenged the youth to dismantle the lingering systems of dependency that continue to hold communities back and instead become architects of resilient, empowered, and self-reliant societies.

Our participation in the mentorship reaffirmed THE MARA EYE CBO's commitment to promoting youth leadership, community empowerment, environmental stewardship, sustainable development, and civic responsibility. We believe that investing in young people today is an investment in stronger communities, better governance, and a more sustainable future.

We sincerely appreciate the Thika Maa Association for creating such an impactful platform that brought together leaders, professionals, mentors, and students to exchange knowledge, inspire purpose-driven leadership, and strengthen the next generation of changemakers. We equally commend all the speakers, organizers, partners, and participants whose contributions made the event both meaningful and memorable.

THE MARA EYE CBO remains committed to working alongside institutions, leaders, communities, and young people in creating opportunities that empower future generations to lead with integrity, serve with purpose, and contribute to building resilient, inclusive, and sustainable communities.

Protecting Nature : Empowering Lives.
IMPACT_KENYA
Indigenous Livelihoods Enhancement Partners - ILEPA
WWF-Kenya

27/06/2026

Strengthening Governance, Empowering COMMUNITIES.

24/06/2026

STATEMENT BY THE MARA EYE COMMUNITY-BASED ORGANIZATION ON THE OLKIOMBO MATTER

THE MARA EYE-CBO is closely following the Olkiombo land matter currently pending before the Supreme Court of Kenya, following an appeal arising from proceedings involving Kunini and other parties.

We are also aware that there is an application challenging the participation of ResoluteRise in the proceedings, and we note this development with concern as the matter continues before the Court.
This case carries significant implications for the Maasai Mara ecosystem, public trust land, conservation efforts, community livelihoods, and the future of one of Kenya’s most important natural heritage landscapes.

THE MARA EYE CBO stands in solidarity with ResoluteRise and supports the principle that public-interest organizations should be allowed to participate meaningfully in matters affecting land, conservation, and community welfare.

We respectfully submit that disputes touching on public land, environmental conservation, and community resources should not be treated as purely private contests between a limited number of parties. Such matters inherently affect local communities, conservation stakeholders, and future generations.

The Constitution of Kenya guarantees access to justice, public participation, and the right of interested parties to be heard where public resources and community interests are at stake. Community-based organizations therefore play a vital role in ensuring transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in such proceedings.

We urge the Supreme Court to consider the broader public-interest dimensions of this matter and allow the substantive issues surrounding Olkiombo to be heard and determined on their merits.

THE MARA EYE CBO does not seek conflict with any individual, institution, or office. Our position is guided solely by the need to protect the Maasai Mara ecosystem, uphold community rights, and safeguard public interest.

The future of the Maasai Mara must remain anchored in transparency, fairness, and public participation.

THE MARA EYE-CBO
Protecting Nature : Empowering Lives.
Defending Our Shared Heritage.
Narok County
NAROK LETS TALK.

24/06/2026

STRENGTHENING LOCAL COMMUNITIES THROUGH BETTER HEALTHCARE.

As part of our Activities , We emphasized that strong communities begin with healthy people.

We warmly welcome community members and all stakeholders to join in celebrating the launch of Naretoi Dispensary ,an important milestone towards improving access to healthcare services and strengthening the wellbeing of communities within the Maasai Mara landscape.

We appreciate and recognize the efforts of Enkopiro Camp and Ololasurai Conservancy for this meaningful contribution towards community welfare. This is a great example of how the wildlife and tourism sector can give back, support local communities, and promote sustainable development beyond conservation.

Better healthcare means empowered families, healthier generations, and stronger communities.

THE MARA EYE CBO
Protecting Nature : Empowering Lives

22/06/2026

THE FALL AND THE RISE OF THE BLACK ROCK BOYS

The history of the Maasai Mara is filled with great lion coalitions, but few have captured the imagination of wildlife lovers like the legendary Black Rock Boys.

The original coalition consisted of five brothers, Oloimina, Olobor, Oloshipa, Lorkulup, and Oloisiadu. United by blood and strengthened by loyalty, they rose from young nomads to become one of the most dominant lion coalitions ever seen in the Mara ecosystem.

Their reign stretched across the famous Black Rock territory and beyond. They conquered and defended pride in Rongai, Maji Ya Fisi, Rekero, and neighboring regions. For years, their thunderous roars echoed through the valleys and river crossings of the Mara, warning rivals that the kings had arrived.

Together they built an empire.

But nature is unforgiving, even to kings.

As the years passed, tragedy struck the coalition. One by one, the mighty brothers disappeared. Battles, human-wildlife conflict, and the hardships of life in the wild slowly reduced the once-powerful alliance. The deaths of Olobor, Oloshipa, Lorkulup, and Oloisiadu marked the fall of a dynasty that had once appeared invincible.

Only Oloimina, the last surviving original Black Rock Boy, remains as a living witness to that glorious era.

Many believed that the story of the Black Rock Boys had come to an end.

They were wrong.

For while the fathers were fading into history, their sons were quietly growing into warriors.

Today, a new generation has emerged—the Rongai Rockers, the rightful heirs of the Black Rock legacy. Known by guides and conservationists as the "R5 Coalition," these five young males represent the rebirth of one of the Mara's greatest bloodlines.

The coalition consists of,

Oloonkera ("Baby Sitter") – Son of Oloisiadu and Nala-F2, known for his calm and protective nature toward his younger brothers.

Kidonge'oe ("Half Tail") – Son of the legendary Olobor, instantly recognizable by his unique tail and growing reputation as a future leader.

Kishindo ("Thunder") – Son of Lorkulup, carrying the power and presence of his father. His name reflects the deep rumble of approaching thunder across the plains.

Dubo Mtoto ("Bearboy") – Son of Lorkulup and the famous lioness Bearface. His name honors his mother's legacy and the bloodline of one of the Mara's most beloved lionesses.

Olubi ("Fearless") – Son of Oloimina, the last surviving original Black Rock Boy. True to his name, he has already shown courage and confidence beyond his years.

Together, these five young males symbolize hope, continuity, and renewal.

The Black Rock Boys may have fallen, but their bloodline has risen once more.

Where their fathers once walked, the Rongai Rockers now patrol. Where the old kings once roared, the young warriors now announce their presence. They carry the scars, strength, and spirit of a legendary dynasty whose story is still being written.

This is not the end of the Black Rock Boys.

It is the beginning of a new chapter.

The fathers built the kingdom.

Now the sons are preparing to inherit it.

And somewhere on the plains of the Maasai Mara, the echoes of the old kings still answer the roars of the new generation.
Kenya Wildlife Service KWS

22/06/2026

FROM COLONIAL LAND GRABS TO CARBON COLONIALISM? A MAASAI PERSPECTIVE

The story of the Maasai struggle for land did not begin today. It began more than a century ago when British colonial administrators arrived in Kenya and gradually took control of vast indigenous territories.

In 1904, the British signed an agreement with Maasai leaders, creating reserves and assuring the Maasai that the fertile Laikipia Plateau would remain their homeland. Yet only a few years later, in 1911, the colonial government reversed its position. Under immense pressure from European settlers seeking fertile grazing land for ranching, the Maasai were pushed out of Laikipia and relocated to the harsher lands of Kajiado and Narok.

The Maasai challenged this injustice in court, but colonial judges sided with the colonial administration. The result was one of the largest land dispossessions in East African history. Generations later, the wounds of that displacement remain visible.

Today, a new debate is unfolding. Across northern Kenya and now parts of the Maasai Mara ecosystem, carbon credit projects are being promoted as solutions to climate change. Supporters argue that these projects generate income, restore grasslands, and support conservation. However, many pastoralists are asking difficult questions.

Who controls the land? Who controls the carbon? Who receives the largest share of the money? What rights are communities signing away, and for how long?

For many Maasai, these questions sound familiar. History teaches us that agreements signed without full community understanding can have consequences lasting generations. Our ancestors were told that colonial agreements would benefit them, yet they lost some of their most productive lands.

This does not mean rejecting every conservation or carbon initiative. It means demanding transparency, accountability, and genuine community consent. Every Maasai man and woman has a right to understand the terms of any agreement affecting communal land, livestock mobility, grazing rights, and the future of coming generations.

The Maasai way of life has survived droughts, colonialism, and political change because our people remained vigilant in protecting their land and livestock. Before accepting any project that affects our rangelands, we must ask hard questions, seek independent information, and ensure that community interests come first.

Land is not merely soil beneath our feet. It is our history, our identity, our culture, our livestock, and our future.

The lessons of 1904 and 1911 should never be forgotten.

Send a message to learn more

22/06/2026

Among the young lions of the Maasai Mara, few have captured the attention and admiration of wildlife enthusiasts like Dubo Mtoto, also known as Orongai or Bearboy. Born into the famous Rongai Pride, often referred to as the Rongai Rockers, Dubo Mtoto carries one of the most celebrated bloodlines in the Mara.

Dubo Mtoto is the son of the renowned lioness Bearface, a respected matriarch whose distinctive appearance and strength made her one of the most recognizable females in the region. Through his mother, Dubo inherited a powerful legacy, but his paternal lineage is equally legendary. He was sired by a member of the famous Black Rock Boys coalition, a dominant force that once ruled large portions of the Maasai Mara. While his exact paternity remains a topic of debate among lion followers, many believe that his father was the legendary Lorkulup, one of the iconic Black Rock twin brothers. Others suggest that his uncle, Oloshipa, may have been his sire.

His name, Dubo Mtoto, meaning "Bear Boy" in Swahili, was inspired by his striking resemblance to his mother. Possessing a broad face, powerful build, and distinctive features, he quickly became one of the most recognizable young males in the Mara. As he matured, observers noted that he not only inherited physical traits from Bearface but also displayed many of the mannerisms and characteristics associated with Lorkulup.

Growing up during a period of increasing competition and territorial pressure, Dubo Mtoto faced the challenges common to all young male lions. As the Rongai Pride experienced fragmentation and the landscape became more contested by rival coalitions, he was forced to adapt, learn, and survive in a rapidly changing environment.
Despite these hardships, Dubo Mtoto emerged as a capable and promising young male. He developed into a skilled hunter and was observed participating in the capture of large prey, demonstrating the strength and courage expected from a descendant of the Black Rock Boys. His journey from playful cub to formidable sub-adult became a source of fascination for wildlife photographers, guides, researchers, and lion lovers across the world.

Today, Dubo Mtoto stands as a living continuation of one of the Maasai Mara's most celebrated bloodlines. Through him, the legacy of Bearface, Lorkulup, Oloshipa, and the Black Rock Boys lives on. His story is one of resilience, heritage, and survival—a reminder that every generation of lions carries the history of those who came before them.

As he continues his journey toward adulthood, Dubo Mtoto remains one of the most watched and beloved young lions of the Maasai Mara, representing both the future of the Rongai Pride and the enduring legacy of the legendary Black Rock dynasty.
Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife - Kenya
Kenya Wildlife Service KWS
Kenya Wildlife service KWS
Lions Clubs International

21/06/2026

WORLD GIRAFFE DAY 2026 🦒.

Today, THE MARA EYE CBO joins the world in celebrating one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife species , the giraffe.
As we work towards Protecting Nature • Empowering Lives, we recognize that conserving giraffes goes beyond protecting a species; it means protecting ecosystems, supporting biodiversity, and strengthening the relationship between communities and nature.
The Maasai Mara landscape is home to incredible wildlife, and our responsibility is to ensure future generations inherit a thriving environment where wildlife and people coexist.
On this special day, we call for:
🦒 Protection of giraffe habitats
✓✓ Sustainable conservation practices
✓✓ Stronger community involvement in wildlife protection
✓✓A future where nature and communities thrive together.

Happy World Giraffe Day!
Protecting Nature : Empowering Lives.
Kenya Wildlife Service KWS