Elders and Youth for the Conservation of the Snow Leopard and its Habitat!

Elders and Youth for the Conservation of the Snow Leopard and its Habitat Project

The Project objective was to conserve and protect the snow leopard and its habitat by creating a dialogue between cultural and spiritual practitioners, between community elders and youth, and between students and local people to launch initiatives called "Friends of LOSL".

Implementation period: June 15, 2019 - July 14, 2020

Participants:
Team leader Raimbekov Japarkul - spiritual practitioner
Kutman - improvisational poet
Temirbekova Gulmira - coordinator

Partners:

• Kyrgyz El Akyl Kazyna Pastoral Network (KEAK - Network of custodians of traditional knowledge)
• Council of local elders - aksakals;
• Local Women's Committee, Youth Committee
• Local authorities, schools, educational institutions
• KIDC "Aikol".

The results of the project:

• The population was informed about the sacral significance of the snow leopard, taboos and TK on fauna and flora associated with the natural habitat of the snow leopard;
• Local NGOs, community leaders, women and youth committees and media were sensitized about LOSL activities and initiatives in the participating countries;
• "Friends of LOSL" groups were formed to support the initiatives conducted by Japarkul and RDF on snow leopard conservation;
• TV and radio programs featuring Japarkul were organized, as well as interviews in local newspapers;
• Meetings in local communities and educational institutions were held.