Operations
Operations, The Engine of Lewa
The Operations Department is divided into four interconnected sub-sections: Works, Workshop, Fences, and Stores.
Workshop
All automotive, generator, and machinery maintenance are handled by the Lewa Workshop. Lewa’s vehicles, as well as those of the Northern Rangelands Trust conservancies, are serviced, maintained, and overhauled here. They also handle welding and fabrication. The majority of the vehicles used at Lewa are pickup trucks that are customised to our specifications at the unit.
Works
The Works subdivision is in charge of all infrastructure. Lewa owns all structures at the Conservancy; the works unit builds new ones and maintains the old ones, which includes roofing, thatching, water, power, grounds, and gardens. The team is also involved in education and community programmes through the infrastructure department, which oversees the groundwork at the 24 Lewa-supported schools. Works oversees any buildings that they require, whether they are classrooms, dining rooms or libraries.
Fence
The boundary and exclusion zones are the focus of the Lewa Fence segment. Lewa is surrounded by a 100-kilometre fence that must be maintained on a regular basis. Boundary fencing enables Human and Wildlife Conflict (HWC) mitigation and protection for wildlife and people The team ensures there is enough power flowing through it, that it is consistent, and up to standards.
Stores
Last but not least are the Stores which are essential to what we do. Hardware and other items utilised on Lewa are distributed through the stores to various departments and stakeholders.
Operations employs around 100 people and when extra hands are needed on deck, they take on many workers from the community. Before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, 50 – 60 were hired per day.