Chinese wildlife conservationist adopted by Kenya's Maasai community
Updated: 2015-08-28 10:00
(Xinhua)
|
|||||||||||
Kenya's Maasai community has for centuries roamed in the expansive Kenyan plains that are home to iconic wildlife species.[Photo/IC] |
Globally renowned for preserving their rich cultural heritage and co-existing harmoniously with wild animals, Kenya's Maasai people are the embodiment of the east African nation's grandeur that attracts foreign visitors.
The pastoral community has for centuries roamed in the expansive Kenyan plains that are home to iconic wildlife species.
A zealous attachment to their culture has nevertheless not detached Maasai people from the rest of the world and they have always extended a hand of friendship to visitors.
The warmth and sincerity of Maasai people attracted Zhuo Qiang, a 42-year-old Chinese graduate of English and Literature who has lived with the pastoralists for the last four years.
Zhuo Qiang's first visit to Kenya in 2004 marked a milestone in the life of an ambitious youth with a burning desire to make a difference in the world.
Growing up in China, Zhuo learnt about Kenya's wildlife heritage through documentaries and felt honored to visit a country that was home to iconic herbivores, reptiles, birds and carnivores.
The founder and Chairman of Mara Conservation Fund (MCF) is a household name having pioneered outstanding wildlife conservation projects in the world famous Mara ecosystem.
The Chinese has in the last four years pitched tent in the Maasai Mara ecosystem to promote innovative models of conserving big game.
To succeed in his vocation, Zhuo enlisted the local Maasai tribe that has a strong grip on wildlife species and their habitat.
On August 22, Zhuo was officially adopted as a son of the Maasai's Ol Kinyei conservation group owing to his unwavering friendship with the pastoralists.
He was feted in an elaborate ceremony attended by local elites, conservationists and Chinese friends.
Related Stories
Internet giant pledges to help in fight against illegal wildlife trade 2015-05-22 17:01
Li Bingbing transforms to protect wildlife 2014-12-10 13:50
Surviving as a wildlife photographer 2014-06-13 07:12
Artist yaks lyrically on wildlife paradise 2013-12-08 08:15
Li Bingbing urges greater effort to combat illegal wildlife trade 2013-05-07 14:57
Today's Top News
Hungary scrambles to confront migrant influx
11 under investigation and 12 detained over Tianjin explosions
Up to 50 refugees found dead
in lorry in Austria
Net migration to UK hits record high
Suspect in Virginia TV shooting had history of workplace issues
Born in captivity, raised in freedom
Too hard to say goodbye to Tibet: China's Jane Goodall
Bank lowers lending rate to ease debts
Hot Topics
Lunar probe , China growth forecasts, Emission rules get tougher, China seen through 'colored lens', International board,
Editor's Picks
V-Day parade for 70th WWII anniversary |
Tianjin blasts: Death, damage and bravery |
NE China: From powerhouse to poor relation |
Worlds apart in a different class |
Road map points way for new industrial cluster |
Plan to teach pupils practical skills welcome |