Conservation Education
Chipembele Wildlife Education Centre
Chipembele Wildlife Education Centre is a fun, interactive and contemporary learning centre for Zambian children from local schools in the Luangwa Valley. It focuses on programmes in conservation and environmental issues. The centre was established using the private funds and retirement pension of a couple, Steve and Anna Tolan, who built the centre with their own funds and have dedicated the rest of their lives to the project. They undertake a wide range of conservation and education projects, including the running of the Centre, for all of which they are completely unsalaried and unpaid. The area is one of the prime tourist destinations in Africa, the Centre being located on the opposite bank of the Luangwa River that borders the national park. Many children that participate in the programe become guides and conservationists in adult life.
The project has the full support of the local Chief, Hon Chief Kakumbi 7th, and the local community. and approval from the Ministry of Education at local, district and national level. Its excellent reputation has spread with delegations of officials from other African countries. Since inception the trust has progressed to encompass much more than the Wildlife Education Centre. The work has expanded its conservation education into local schools and operates a Chipembele Rangers scheme through the school conservation clubs. Anna manages school improvement projects, runs a Pupil Sponsorship Scheme and is involved with local women’s groups. Steve is actively involved in anti-poaching work and forestry protection.
"The Government of Zambia and all its peoples will surely thank you ultimately for what you have both achieved. I have been to a number of Education Centres for conservation all over the world in the forty years that I have been involved with wildlife but have NEVER experienced such an example of dedication and inspiration. Your Centre is unique and all I can say is congratulations!"
David Shepherd, reknowned British wildlife artist and African conservationist