SMART is a Spatial Monitoring and Reporting Tool, used to increase the effectiveness of conservation management through improved monitoring and analysis. The SMART software makes it possible to collect, store, communicate and analyze ranger-collected data on illegal activities, wildlife, and patrol routes. Until last year, GZT’s data collection has been paper-based. However, this takes a long time to process and get timely results from. GZT therefore decided to roll out SMART with the Grevy’s Zebra Ambassadors and Warriors. The Grevy’s Zebra Ambassadors were trained last year in the use of Cybertracker and SMART, and this November our ten Grevy’s Zebra Warriors were trained by the Zoological Society of London at our camp in Westgate.
The Warriors had never used smartphones before and so first needed time to familiarize themselves with this technology, which they enjoyed immensely! We also added various icons to the Cyber Tracker app to make it more user-friendly, as most of the Warriors do not know how to read. Theoretical training covered the benefits of SMART and the methodology of data collection, while the practical component involved pictorial patrols around camp. Then their skills were put to the test in the field with patrols in Samburu National Reserve and on the Naibelibeli plains, collecting data on Grevy’s zebra and other wildlife encountered. The Warriors were naturals when it came to understanding and using this new monitoring technology, and were very enthusiastic to use their new skills!
