This is Randi Hacker with another Postcard from Abroad from the KU Center for East Asian Studies and Kansas African Studies.

In a place where human-animal conflict has led to a declining lion population and threatened livelihoods, one non-profit is trying a new approach: actively including women in conservation. Ewaso Lions, a non-profit located in northern Kenya, started the “Mama Simba” program in 2013. Translated from Kiswahili, the program name means “the Mother of Lions.” In addition to learning practical skills to decrease opportunities for human-lion conflict, like improved methods to protect livestock enclosures, the women also learn to make crafts to diversify their income. Furthermore, women learn basic literacy and math. Overall, attitudes towards the lions are improving, which helps everyone. And much like a lioness, the women of Mama Simba are growing into confident leaders in their communities.

With thanks to Mackenzie Jones for this text, from the KU Center for East Asian Studies, this is Randi Hacker. Wish you were here.