Grade 6 Social Studies Resources And Economic Activities In Eastern Africa – Wildlife And Tourism In Eastern Africa Notes

Wildlife and Tourism in Eastern Africa

Subject: Social Studies — Topic: Resources and Economic Activities in Eastern Africa — Subtopic: Wildlife and Tourism

What is wildlife tourism? 📷🦁

Wildlife tourism is when people travel to see wild animals in their natural homes—for example, going to the Maasai Mara to watch lions, elephants, zebras and wildebeest.

Why is wildlife tourism important?

• It earns money for the country (tourists pay fees for parks, hotels and tours). 💰
• It creates jobs — e.g., guides, drivers, hotel staff, cooks, craft sellers, rangers.
• It helps protect animals and their homes because people want to keep parks safe and beautiful.
• It promotes Kenyan culture — visitors learn about Maasai and other groups.

Famous wildlife places in Kenya (examples) 🗺️

How wildlife tourism helps local people

• Money from tourism is used to build schools, clinics and roads.
• Communities join conservation projects and get paid to protect land.
• Selling crafts and cultural performances gives families income. 🎨

Threats to wildlife and tourism

• Poaching — illegal killing of animals for their skin, tusks or horns. ❌
• Habitat loss — farming, building and cutting trees reduce animal homes. 🌳➡️🏠
• Pollution and climate change — water dries up, plants change and animals move away.
• Too many visitors without rules can disturb animals and damage parks.

How people protect wildlife

• Protected areas: national parks and reserves where animals are safe.
• Community conservancies: local people manage land and share tourism money.
• Anti-poaching teams and park rangers keep animals safe. 🛡️
• Eco-tourism: tourists follow rules that help nature (no littering, stay in marked places).

Tips for tourists (how to behave) 📝

• Keep quiet and do not scare animals.
• Do not feed, touch or try to get too close to wild animals.
• Follow the guide’s instructions and park rules.
• Buy local crafts—this helps families who live near parks.

Class activity (5–10 minutes)

Work in small groups. Pick one Kenyan park and draw or write:

1. Three animals found there (emoji allowed).
2. Two benefits the park brings to local people.
3. One way you can help protect that park.

Review questions

1. What is wildlife tourism?
2. Name two jobs created by wildlife tourism.
3. Mention one threat to wildlife and one way to stop it.

End of notes — remember: when people and nature work together, both can benefit.