The Aberdare Joint Surveillance Unit (AJSU) is a partnership between Rhino Ark and the Kenya Wildlife Service. AJSU, which was founded in 2010, is a novel concept where the local community is more actively involved in conservation efforts. The Unit is tasked with:
- patrolling the forest and the 400km fence
- curbing illegal activities that threaten forest integrity
- de-snaring
- monitoring tree degeneration
- involving neighbouring communities in conservation work
Rhino Ark support for AJSU includes provision of:
- training for the team
- a patrol vehicle
- cameras
- hand-held GPS units to strengthen their field work