Preserving Nature and
Empowering Communities:
Bruce Mukwatu’s Journey from Community Health
Towards Sustainable Conservation
Drawing on his previous work with USAID as a community mobilization advisor in health, Bruce has successfully implemented programs that have positively affected many lives. By establishing neighborhood health committees, he empowered communities to identify their challenges and was then able to provide them with technical assistance. Through these efforts, lifestyles have improved dramatically, and the prevalence of communicable diseases has decreased significantly. Bruce’s innovative strategies combated malaria, promoted access to clean water, and by teaching the proper technique for performing a male circumcision drastically reduced HIV transmission.
Looking ahead, Bruce’s goal is to establish a community nature conservancy. By creating a sustainable game ranch and ensuring the repopulation of wildlife, Bruce envisions a harmonious coexistence between humans and nature. Through this initiative, he aims to not only protect the environment but also to create opportunities for livelihood within the community. One of Bruce’s primary focuses is working with five chiefdoms surrounding Zambia’s majestic West Lunga Game Park. Bruce fosters a sense of stewardship among the community members working with five chiefdoms, making them active participants in the preservation process. Recognizing the challenges faced by these communities, Bruce collaborates closely with local leaders to develop initiatives that support the conservation of wildlife and natural habitats.
Bruce understands the importance of engaging with traditional leaders and working alongside the government to achieve lasting results. Instead of seeking ownership over natural resources, Bruce advocates for a collective approach in which the responsibility lies with the people. By fostering partnerships and cooperation, Bruce ensures that the utilization of natural resources is done sustainably, benefiting both the environment and the local communities. Bruce faces the ongoing challenge of depleted game and fish resources. To tackle this issue, he partnered with game ranching organizations to facilitate the creation of a breeding zone spanning 12,000 square kilometers. The breeding zone serves as a replenishment area, allowing the restocking of game species and the revival of biodiversity. Bruce’s commitment to sustainable practices ensures the long-term viability of the ecosystem and benefits both wildlife and local livelihoods.
Influence of Future Generations UniversityBruce’s time at Future Generations University played a pivotal role in shaping his career and personal path. The university’s interdisciplinary approach and interactions with individuals from diverse backgrounds provided Bruce with a profound appreciation for the interconnectedness of humanity. Through this experience, Bruce learned to value and celebrate the unique gifts each person brings to the table. He firmly believes that by embracing our differences and supporting one another, we can create a harmonious coexistence between people and nature.
