A Meaningful Transformation at the Kraal: Renovating the Kids’ Play Yard

Between 10 February and 22 February, the Kraal Team at the Cheetah Conservation Fund completed a full renovation of our kids’ play yard a project that was both a practical upgrade and a heartfelt surprise for Laurie Marker.

The goal was simple: create a safer, more enriching environment for our goats while also enhancing one of CCF’s key on-show areas for guests and tourists. The kraal is one of the main spaces visitors experience during tours, and we wanted it to be a place that truly wows a space where guests can take memorable photos, share their experience with friends and family, and connect more deeply with the work we do.

Over nearly two weeks, we repainted fences and poles, covering faded surfaces and restoring a fresh, vibrant look to the yard. The kidding barns were also repainted, brightening the entire area and giving it a clean, welcoming appearance. Structural improvements were equally important: we repaired and reinforced fencing and installed a new, more efficient feeding system to improve daily management and animal care.

Beyond aesthetics and functionality, enrichment was a central focus of this renovation.We built several new enrichment devices, including head-butting tyres that encourage natural play and strength-building behaviors. A new climbing frame constructed from repurposed wire spools provides height, exploration opportunities, and physical exercise. We may even have created Namibia’s first-ever goat tyre swing a fun and stimulating feature that supports balance and coordination.

We also installed hidden grooming brushes within the yard. These allow the goats to naturally rub against them, helping with tick and external parasite control. Tick management is extremely important for overall herd health, and these brushes provide both comfort and preventative care in a natural, stress-free way.

One of the most meaningful additions to the yard is the green play car. This is not just any car it was Dr. Marker’s first vehicle used in Namibia when she traveled to farms advocating for cheetah conservation. Incorporating it into the play yard connects the past and present of CCF’s work, honoring the history of conservation while serving a new purpose in enrichment and education.

This entire project was carried out as a surprise. Seeing Dr. Marker’s reaction when she returned and viewed the transformation was one of the most rewarding moments for our team. Her enthusiasm and appreciation made every late afternoon and every brush stroke worthwhile.

Most importantly, this was a true team effort. The Kraal Team worked side by side throughout the renovation, and we are deeply grateful to the interns and staff members from other departments who stepped in to assist. Collaboration across CCF made this transformation possible. Special thanks also go to Mr. Calum for his steady guidance and support from start to finish.

This renovation was about more than paint and repairs. It was about welfare, enrichment, teamwork, and pride in the space we share with our animals and our visitors. We are proud of what we accomplished together and look forward to seeing both our goats and our guests continue to enjoy the renewed play yard.
The Kraal Team