Nature Field Centre
Chipembele has embarked on an exciting new venture within its Outdoor Conservation Education Programme: the creation of a Nature Field Centre. Set on 16 hectares of pristine wilderness along the Luangwa River, just 3 km from the established Chipembele Conservation Centre, this project will be a landmark for conservation education and research in Zambia.
Vision
The Nature Field Centre will be an inspirational hub where local youth, communities, scientists and conservation organisations come together to learn, research and protect Zambia’s natural heritage. It will provide both immersive outdoor education and a well resourced base for vital scientific work.
Watch this 12 minute video of ‘Chipembele – the next chapter’
Aim
The aim of the Nature Field Centre is to establish a dedicated space with the infrastructure, resources, and environment needed for outdoor learning, ecological research and community engagement.
Objectives
Conservation Education
Inspire environmental awareness among local youth through handson learning beyond the classroom.
Research Opportunities
Provide a hub for local and international researchers to study ecosystems, biodiversity, and conservation needs.
Capacity Building
Deliver training and workshops in ecological techniques, conservation practices, and sustainable development.
Community Engagement
Strengthen relationships with local communities and involve them in Centre activities.
Biodiversity Protection
Promote sustainable practices and raise awareness of conservation’s importance.
Collaboration
Build partnerships with academic institutions, NGOs, government agencies, and international stakeholders.
LongTerm Impact
Create lasting benefits for students, researchers, communities, and the wildlife and habitats they depend on.
Progress to Date
Title Deeds Secured
99-year lease secured, valid until 2094.
Architect Plans Completed
Professional architectural plans and designs finalized.
Project Costings Produced
Detailed costings prepared and planning permission obtained.
Project Team Identified
Experienced contractor and project manager selected.
Borehole Drilled
Independent water source successfully established.
Site Facilities Constructed
Large storage building and guard room completed.
Risk Assessment Completed
Comprehensive project risk assessment finalized.
Official Endorsement Received
Project endorsed by the Scientific Exploration Society.
Next steps
How to Get Involved
For more information or to request a copy of the funding proposal, please contact: anna@chipembele.org
“If we want children to flourish, to become truly empowered, then let us allow them to love the earth before we ask them to save it.”
~David Sobel