In this interview, conservationist and author Mark Infield discusses themes from his latest book, Beautiful Beasts, Beautiful Lands, exploring the complex relationships between conservation, culture, and community. From Uganda's Lake Mburo National Park to cultural landscapes, Infield shares stories of the Bahima people and their revered Ankole cattle, offering a fresh perspective on integrating traditional values with modern conservation efforts. Topics covered include the role of protected areas, challenges with exclusionary policies, and redefining “wilderness” for sustainable futures.
The Book: Beautiful Beasts, Beautiful Lands: The fall and rise of an African national park
Key Moments
[00:01] Introduction to Mark Infield’s background
[03:45] The Ankole cattle and cultural heritage of the Bahima people
[12:30] Historical context of Lake Mburo and conservation conflicts
[22:15] Thoughts on conservation vs. preservation and community inclusion
[30:20] Strategies for sustainable conservation practices
Watch the full interview to uncover the stories that shape conservation today and find practical approaches to building community-focused conservation models.
