The dry, degraded region around Lake Baringo is a harsh place to live. In conjunction with the RAE (Rehabilitation of Arid Environments) Trust, the pupils analysed data that they collected from fields managed by the group.

 
They compared vegetation cover, drainage rates and species diversity with data from fields which are currently not part of the scheme. It was a stark contrast! The managed areas are covered in grass which is harvested for seed or carefully grazed by a reduced number of cattle. The fields are fenced and trees are planted. Locals can generate income from selling seed, thatching grass, wood used for fence posts and keeping bees. Simple, sustainable methods allow the community to earn regular income while protecting the environment in which they live.
 
The pupils completed their data collection and headed to RAE headquarters for a Question and Answer session with local women and managers from the group. The pupils raised issues about conflict between ethnic groups, between humans and wildlife and they made mature suggestions about how these could be managed.
 
The more luxurious part of the visit was spent on an island in the lake, where the pupils enjoyed a boat trip to the nearby Ruko Conservancy. Here, they got close to indigenous wildlife and had the opportunity to learn about the hot springs on the lake’s shores. They also visited Omega Farms to learn about the breeding and growing of Tilapia fish, which are native to the lake.