With limited opportunities to earn a living, the communities living near wildlife-rich areas often have a low standard of living. This is exacerbated by the adverse effects of climate change and human-wildlife conflict. Many people in the Tsavo-Mkomazi region are heavily reliant on natural resources but are unable to produce sufficient food supplies for self-sustenance. This leads to an increasing dependency on bushmeat and the destruction of watersheds and wildlife habitats through logging, overgrazing, the extension of farmland, charcoal production, and wildlife crime. Collectively, this results in a decreased amount of wildlife and its habitat and a decreased quality of life for the local people. Alongside this, Taita Taveta is also rich in culture, and historical sites, which offers opportunities to diversify into tourism for the local communities.

TUI Wildlife Kenya protects 400 000 m² of savannah which is home to five endangered species: elephants, giraffes, lions, cheetahs and pangolins. Two new boreholes supply water to ten troughs for wildlife and livestock, helping to prevent human-wildlife conflict.  In the communities adjacent to the protected areas, 230 people receive training to support them in adopting climate smart agriculture and to harvest products for the tourism industry.

A tourism route through sisal seedlings nurseries and a leather tannery increases the number of people participating in nature-based experiences and establishes market linkages between tannery and sisal basket weaving groups.  Entrepreneurship training and equipment is also provided to add value to products.

By improving livelihoods and the water infrastructure, TUI Wildlife Kenya alleviates the strain on water resources and contributes to better habitat protection and restoration.