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Jamma Joins the ICCF Group

JAMMA NEWS & INSIGHTS

Jamma Joins the International
Conservation Caucus Foundation Group

News and Insights

Jamma is thrilled to announce a new partnership with the International Conservation Caucus Foundation (ICCF) Group, a global organisation dedicated to advancing conservation governance and providing on-the-ground solutions. Jamma was introduced as the newest member of ICCF’s U.S. Conservation Council at a Congressional Members luncheon in Washington, D.C. in March 2024.

ICCF operates with a mission to build political will and support effective conservation policies worldwide. Through its extensive network of policymakers, wildlife experts, NGO leaders, and industry stakeholders, ICCF catalyses action to address pressing environmental challenges. ICCF supports 26 conservation caucuses around the world, including the U.S. Congressional Caucuses on International Conservation, Oceans, and Senate Climate Solutions. As well as the All-Party Parliamentary Group on International Conservation in the UK, and parliamentary groups across southern Africa.

By joining forces with ICCF, Jamma aims to amplify its impact in the conservation public policy space. Through collaborative efforts, both organisations seek to promote sustainable practices, protect biodiversity, and empower local communities to safeguard natural resources.

For example, ICCF has been a leading advocate for the U.S. Foundation for International Conservation Act. This bill, which recently passed out of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, would establish an independent foundation to invest up to $2 billion in public-private investments over the next decade in management of protected and conserved areas.

“Democracy is a key aspect to developing sustainable community-based natural resource management programs”, said Joe Goergen, International Policy & Public Affairs Specialist for Jamma. “We want to ensure that North American public policy, conservation funding, and tourism markets work for local people in southern Africa.”

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Jamma recently attended the ICCF hosted international conference on the Miombo Forest Initiative, chaired by H.E. President Filipe Jacinto Nyusi of Mozambique. At this event, Mozambique, along with Ministers and other leaders from the SADC region, committed to collaborative efforts to promote local livelihoods, sustainable development, and climate change resilience through the conservation of miombo woodlands.

We thank ICCF for their policy leadership and look forward to working together towards are shared conservation goals.

Jamma International is recruiting for an exciting new role of Communications Intern. This role will undertake the development of Jamma International’s communications and social media strategy.
Press Release

Jamma Communications Internship: Closed for Application

This years theme is anxiety. Anxiety is a common mental health challenge affecting countless individuals. It can manifest in various ways, from persistent worry and excessive fear to physical symptoms like racing heart and shortness of breath. At Jamma we believe it is essential to recognise that anxiety is not a weakness or something that can be easily brushed off. By raising awareness about anxiety, we can help reduce stigma and create a supportive environment where those affected feel comfortable seeking help and support.
Press Release

Mental Health Awareness Week 2023

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Joe at the 9th Powering Africa Summit

JAMMA NEWS & INSIGHTS

Powering a Socially Just Energy Transition in Africa:
Perspectives from the 9th Powering Africa Summit

News and Insights

Africa is resource rich in both wildlife and energy but remains a poor continent. While responsible for only about 3% of global carbon emission, African countries will be some of the most negatively impacted by climate change.

The scale of energy poverty in Africa and the urgent need to adopt renewables is a massive challenge. Most Africans still lack access to power, an inconceivable idea to the Global North and failure of human rights. An estimated 900 million people or 80% of households in sub-Saharan Africa rely on traditional biomass for personal energy consumption. This high demand for wood fuels can drive deforestation, which causes most of Africa’s limited emissions. Meanwhile, Africa’s population growth is projected to outpace the rest of the world further increasing energy demand and potential pressures on nature.

The 9th Powering Africa Summit, hosted by Power Africa in Washington, DC, confronted the need for increasing investment and sustainable finance mechanisms to address Africa’s energy poverty, meet growing demand, and achieve climate goals. Energy Ministers from every region attended with global finance institutions, U.S. government partners, solar industry developers, sustainable development advocates, and youth campaigners.

The agenda flowed from the Nairobi Declaration and climate pledges made at the inaugural Africa Climate Summit hosted by Kenya in 2023. To realize a clean transition and energy industrialization at the scale needed, more than $2 trillion of investment (almost the size of the entire continent’s GDP) is required including through increased access to concessional loans, support from developed nations, and a diversity of innovative private capitol partnerships.

But how do indigenous peoples and local communities fit in to this revolution? Being the most rural and often marginalized, indigenous peoples’ groups likely have the least access to power while their customary lands contribute the most to climate change mitigation. Indeed, rural electrification is a major benefit prioritized by community-based natural resource management programs, for example for communal conservancies in Namibia (my area of research expertise). And what cost will this energy transition have on biodiversity or more sustainable development opportunities through wildlife-based bio-economies, including timber, indigenous plant products, or communally managed forests?

Project developers do conduct environmental and social impact assessments, but data is often lacking from the process. Indigenous peoples’ experiences with carbon markets also does not inspire hope that the right to free, prior and informed consent will be respected.

The renewable energy sector, therefore, has the obligation and opportunity to help power Africa with a people-centric approach. Indigenous peoples and local communities must also be engaged, which can be achieved in collaboration with strong youth and women’s movements already at the table calling for inclusion and equity.

 

By Joseph Goergen

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Joseph Goergen is an AWEI Research Fellow and International Policy & Public Affairs Specialist at Jamma International. His MSc thesis in Conservation Biology at Michigan State University is evaluating the environmental and governance drivers of income earned by community-based natural resource management economies in Namibia.

Nature is so central to our psychological and emotional health, that it’s almost impossible to realise good mental health for all without a greater connection to the natural world. Here at Jamma, we clearly see the link between the wellbeing of people and the wellbeing of our planet
Press Release

Mental Health Awareness Week

Jamma is currently looking for an office-based intern to support our existing projects through their technical and research skills.
Press Release

Jamma Internship: Closed for Application

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Episode One Of The Podcast Is Now Out!

JAMMA NEWS & INSIGHTS

Episode One
Is Now Out!

News and Insights

We’re back! The Beneath the Baobab Podcast and host, Gordon Buchanan, return to explore the issue of human wildlife conflict. In this second season of the conservation and communities podcast, we will be travelling around southern Africa to meet the communities living alongside wildlife.

For the past 30 years Gordon has immersed himself in the world of documentary filmmaking, capturing narratives of the natural world, wildlife, and the intricate relationships between humans and wild animals. In an era of rapid environmental change, our interactions with certain species have become increasingly complex. Factors such as population growth, habitat loss, climate fluctuations, and policy shifts have led to a convergence of human and wildlife territories, often resulting in profound conflicts.

From simple fear to the devastation of crops and livestock, these conflicts pose not only a threat to livelihoods but also to human lives. However, amidst the turmoil, there exist stories of resilience and remarkable connections with wildlife that transcend the strife. Join us to meet the communities, the families, and the people at the very heart of the matter as we discuss the coexistence challenge Beneath the Baobab.

In our first episode, we journey to the western border of Kruger National Park, a region teeming with biodiversity and home to both iconic wildlife and resilient communities. We'll hear first hand accounts from these communities who are battling to safeguard their livelihoods.

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Our debut episode premiered on March 7th, and subsequent episodes will be released every other week until the season finale. The audio of this series can be found by searching 'Jamma International' on Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform. You can also watch the Full video on YouTube! Each episode will be released.

Jamma International is recruiting for an exciting new role of a legal assistant intern based in Cape Town. If you possess a profound passion for conservation, indigenous rights, and legal research, we invite you to join our dedicated team. By taking on this role, you will play a vital part in supporting our ongoing projects and contributing to our impactful initiatives.

Jamma Legal Assistant Internship: Closed for Application

Jamma is currently looking for an office-based intern to support our existing projects through their technical and research skills.
Press Release

Jamma Internship: Closed for Application

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We’re back from filming season 2

JAMMA NEWS & INSIGHTS

We're back from filming
Season 2

News and Insights

We are delighted to announce the completion of filming for the second season of Beneath the Baobab Podcast.

The production was divided into two parts, the first segment explored areas in South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana. While the second journeyed through Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Zambia. Our esteemed filming crew included Gordon Buchanan, renowned wildlife filmmaker, and the talented Olly Pemberton. They were accompanied by Katie Mackenzie, the project coordinator at Jamma International.

Throughout the production process, we had the privilege of meeting extraordinary individuals in remote regions of Africa. Their stories offered profound insights into what it means to coexist with wildlife, highlighting the complex relationship between humans and animals. Surprisingly, the attitudes towards wildlife were not as negative as one might expect...

We are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to share these captivating stories with you. For exclusive behind-the-scenes updates and information on episode releases, we encourage you to subscribe to the Jamma newsletter and follow our social media channels. Be the first to experience the remarkable firsthand accounts of individuals in season 2.

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Jamma International presents the video of Dr. Moreangels Mbizah’s conservation journey created as part of Resource Africa’s ‘Let Africans Decide’ series.
Press Release

Dr. Moreangels Mbizah’s Conservation Journey

Joseph Goergen recently attended the 9th Powering African Summit in Washington DC. Read on to discover his insights and reflections on the conference and it’s pivotal discussions.

Joe at the 9th Powering Africa Summit

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‘Brain Smart’ Book Now Out!

JAMMA NEWS & INSIGHTS

'Brain Smart' Book
Now Available

News and Insights

We are thrilled to share the exciting news that Agneta, our Director of Mental Wellbeing at Jamma, has recently released her debut book titled "Brain Smart."

Agneta's passion is to design life skills programmes to build capacity and resilience in people where everyone, regardless of their financial circumstances, can learn to improve their wellbeing. 

"Brain Smart" delves into the inner workings of the brain, offering invaluable insights and practical strategies to enhance mental wellbeing. Unlike traditional therapy approaches, this book serves as an educational tool, empowering readers to understand how their brain shapes thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. This 'Brain Smart' programme is being used by mental health charities and has become part of some school's curricula. It is also being developed for prisons.

Available on Kindle or as a paperback via Amazon, "Brain Smart" provides straightforward exercises and clear explanations, making it accessible to individuals from all walks of life.

so embark on a journey of self-discovery and mental empowerment with "Brain Smart" today. Your feedback is invaluable to us, so please consider leaving a review after reading!

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Media

These little bundles of fur have effortlessly stolen the hearts and attention of our employees, spreading joy throughout the workplace!

Jamma’s New Office Residents

Jamma is thrilled to announce a new partnership with the International Conservation Caucus Foundation (ICCF) Group.

Jamma Joins the ICCF Group

Khwe-19 news and insights

Cultural Survival Publication

JAMMA NEWS & INSIGHTS

Indigenous Peoples
Rights

News and Insights

Jamma International Champions Indigenous Peoples' Rights in Conservation

Jamma International is proud announce that a compelling article, "A Call to Champion Sustainable Use of Wildlife as an Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Issue," has been published in the Cultural Survival Magazine, authored by our team members Lesle Jansen and Joe Goergen. This insightful piece explores the resilient legacy of the San and Khoikhoi Peoples in Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa, highlighting their crucial role in advocating for wildlife conservation despite historical difficulties. As a nonprofit organisation, Jamma International supports Indigenous Peoples' rights, echoing the global call for inclusive and respectful conservation practices. The article delves into the successes of Namibia's conservancy program, covering 20% of the country's land and supporting over 230,000 rural people.

Jamma International actively engages in supporting a more equitable and sustainable approach to wildlife conservation. Engage with the full article on the Cultural Survivals Website to delve into the intersection of Indigenous practices and sustainable wildlife conservation.

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These little bundles of fur have effortlessly stolen the hearts and attention of our employees, spreading joy throughout the workplace!

Jamma’s New Office Residents

We are excited to announce that Agneta, director of Mental Wellbeing at Jamma has published her first book, ‘Brain Smart’!

‘Brain Smart’ Book Now Out!

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Jamma’s Christmas Newsletter

JAMMA NEWS & INSIGHTS

Jamma International's
Christmas Newsletter

News and Insights

Exciting news! Dive into the festive season with our newly released Christmas Newsletter

We are delighted to share the festive spirit with our community through this year's Christmas Newsletter, spotlighting the significant achievements of our partners over the past six months. In a year brimming with meaningful projects, we reveal the highlights, providing insights into updates from organisations such as Elephants Alive and Cape Leopard Trust. Our exploration extends to critical areas, including Human-Wildlife Conflict, Indigenous Peoples' Rights, and CBNRM.  As we approach the conclusion of the year, the entire Jamma team extends heartfelt wishes to our incredible supporters and partners. Your support has played a pivotal role in our journey. We wish you a safe, relaxing and enjoyable holiday season. 

We warmly invite you to peruse Jamma’s Christmas Newsletter and stay abreast of our dedicated efforts to raise awareness in these vital spheres.

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Lesle Jansen spoke at the 16th session of the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (EMRIP) in Geneva, advocating for the indigenous people’s fundamental rights to practice their traditional occupations and pursue sustainable use of their resources.

Lesle represents Jamma at the United Nations of Geneva

Nature is so central to our psychological and emotional health, that it’s almost impossible to realise good mental health for all without a greater connection to the natural world. Here at Jamma, we clearly see the link between the wellbeing of people and the wellbeing of our planet
Press Release

Mental Health Awareness Week

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Beneath the Baobab Podcast Returns

JAMMA NEWS & INSIGHTS

Beneath the Baobab
Podcast Returns

News and Insights

The Beneath the Baobab Podcast returns, this time exploring the issue of human-wildlife conflict. Currently, Gordon Buchanan, Katie Mackenzie and Olly Pemberton who will be filming and directing this season's podcast are busy getting ready to travel to remote areas of Southern Africa, to speak with the communities living alongside wildlife.

The success of Season 1 of Beneath the Baobab in 2021 led to a scale up of this year’s Season 2. Our ten episodes will take place in seven countries and be filmed, as well as recorded. The theme of Beneath the Baobab Season 2 is Human-Wildlife Conflict (HWC), where we will be exploring the real-life costs of communities living with wildlife and the innovative solutions to mitigate these costs.   

As they embark on this journey, we'll be sharing exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpses and captivating stories on our social media channels. Stay connected with us as we work to produce this insightful podcast, providing a unique perspective on the intricate dynamics of human and wildlife coexistence.

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Jamma is pleased to introduce Lesle, Alison and Theo as our newest team members!
Press Release

Jamma’s Newest Team Members!

Jamma is currently looking for an office-based intern to support our existing projects through their technical and research skills.
Press Release

Jamma Internship: Closed for Application

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Jamma Legal Assistant Internship: Closed for Application

JAMMA NEWS & INSIGHTS

Jamma Internship:
Closed for Application

News & Insights

An exciting internship opportunity has been created to support existing Jamma projects by providing legal assistance and research input.

Jamma and its partners are dedicated to preserving the sustainable use of natural resources and the rights of communities living alongside wildlife. Policies restricting sustainable use are gaining momentum, posing threats to vulnerable communities reliant on these resources. These marginalised communities, already bearing the brunt of climate change, often lack influence in conservation decisions. Jamma is actively working through projects, communication initiatives, and social media efforts to address these challenges and advocate for sustainable, community-focused conservation policies.

This role will suit someone used to working both autonomously and within a small team. They will work closely with the Head of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities Resource Rights, the Project Development Manager, the Project Coordinator, and the Director of Conservation and Communities.

It is an office-based position on a one-year fixed contract at £21,000 per annum in Cape Town, South Africa.

The closing date for applications is on the 31st of October 2023. Apply here.

Join us in making a difference. Apply now and be a part of our passionate team dedicated to positive change.

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The Beneath the Baobab Podcast and host, Gordon Buchanan, return to explore the issue of human wildlife conflict in this second season of the conservation and communities podcast, this time travelling around southern Africa to meet the communities living alongside wildlife.

Episode One Of The Podcast Is Now Out!

We are delighted to announce a significant milestone in our ongoing project with the Khomani San community. The school has has successfully obtained a long-awaited certification, officially recognising it as a government-approved independent school!

Khomani San School Receives Certification

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IUCN Sustainable Use and Livelihoods Specialist Group (SULi)

IUCN Sustainable Use and Livelihoods Specialist Group

IUCN SULi

Formed in 2012, the IUCN Sustainable Use and Livelihoods Specialist Group (SULi) stands as a global volunteer network established by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). It's a joint venture with the Species Survival Commission (SSC) and the Commission on Environmental, Economic, and Social Policy (CEESP).

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JAMMA INTERNATIONAL

Our
Approach

The IUCN Sustainable Use and Livelihoods Specialist Group (SULi) brings together expertise from the realms of science, policy, and practice. SULi's mission is to confront the pressing challenges posed by the overexploitation of wild species while fostering equitable and resilient models of sustainable use that align with human needs and priorities.

 

Since its formation in 2012, SULi has garnered widespread recognition for its authoritative contributions to critical conservation matters. With a focus on addressing contentious issues such as illegal wildlife trade and hunting, SULi has established itself as an influential and credible voice within the global conservation community.

For nature, for people: building global understanding on sustainable use of wildlife.

SULi's mission acknowledges that the attainment of sustainable use, intricately linked to the wellbeing of local communities, demands insights that extend beyond the conventional boundaries of conservation biology. This encompasses domains such as governance, social sciences, economics, and political ecology. In recognition of this multidimensional perspective, SULi forges connections among an exceptionally diverse spectrum of technical knowledge, spanning these areas and bridging the gaps between science, policy, and practical implementation.

By collaborating with partners at all levels, SULi ensures a comprehensive approach to sustainable use. Drawing upon a wealth of expertise, SULi fosters a holistic understanding of the complex interactions that shape the delicate balance between human needs and ecological preservation.

The vision of Jamma International is the wellbeing of the planet and its people, we feel passionate about supporting projects that will empower people to improve their wellbeing. We know how to take care of our body but we know very little about how our brain works. If you understand how the brain works, you have the ability to change your behaviour. The first project in Life Skills being developed will focus on the Brain, how it creates our reality and affects our behaviour. Not in a detailed brain science way, but in a way that can help us understand how little the brain has changed since cave men and how this can cause a lot of suffering in todays life.
People

Life Skills

The Photography Foundation creates pathways to professional photography for less advantaged young adults in London by offering education, work experience and routes to a career in the creative industries. It’s a simple philosophy with a lasting impact for good.

Jamma is proud to support the Shoreditch-based organisation to help make society a little more equal for tomorrow’s creative visionaries. Through training programmes and community outreach, they remove barriers to entry and open up photography careers, welcoming in the next generation of diverse creative talent.
People

The Photography Foundation

JAMMA INTERNATIONAL

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