We’re baaaaaa-ck in Akagera

to tag the 100+ goats that were sourced locally over the last few months.

And many of the goats already had babies.

This area abuts the Masai Mara and Serengeti.

Fairly flat, arid and hot.

Hard to believe it’s the same Rwanda!

And the absence of lions up to now makes for very laid-back wildlife inside the park.

On a previous visit we saw 6 giraffes lounging in various states of repose in the middle of the open savannah. 

Unthinkable in any other game park where predators lurk!

This will soon change as a pride of lions will be introduced, both as a tourist draw, and to stabilize the exploding wildlife population.

The cooperative we are working with is incredibly close to the park boundary, just a km or so walk away.

So poaching has been an on-going issue in the area, not just by struggling Rwandans but by Tanzanians as well.

As we drove through the village, we were ecstatic to see lots of composted fertilizer strategically placed for planting as soon as the expected rains arrive.

And, to help with the logistics of such a large number of goats to be tagged, we were extremely pleased and grateful to have volunteering with us 4 young, enthusiastic specialists- a vet (and teacher), a researcher, and 2 community development assistants working for African Parks/RDB.

These bright, articulate people, the next generation of Rwandans, point to a bright future for the country!

And sooo nice to not be the only woman on the team for a change!

composted fertilizer sits in the (sometimes) shade waiting for the rains.

Community Development Assistant Joanne helps with contract signing and tag distribution...with help from her assistant.

trying to keep out of the intense heat.

Researcher Gloria (working primarily with the endangered cranes thanks to a Rolex grant) perfects the technique of ear tagging thanks to lots of helping hands!

one of rita's precious four-legged grandchildren...

The local government rep points out the difference between the woman who wisely bought a goat ready to have babies and the much younger goat bought by someone who thought he could take advantage of a cash grab to pocket the difference. He'll now have to wait 4-6 months before his goat can have babies!

Zab and Martin in the back. Joanne and Gloria with Jeff. A fabulous team!

dust devils are a common sight during the dry season.