The Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Hon. Rebecca Miano, EGH, is set to visit Nyeri County today to launch several key wildlife and tourism-related initiatives aimed at addressing Human-Wildlife Conflict (HWC) and fostering better human-wildlife co-existence. This visit is part of her routine inspections of wildlife conservation projects across the country.
During her visit, Hon. Miano will officially launch the 60km Mt Kenya Electric Fence-Phase VI: Naromoru-Nanyuki fencing project by the Rhino Ark. This project is aimed at reducing instances of wildlife straying into human settlements, thereby mitigating the risks and damages associated with wildlife encounters. The fencing initiative is seen as a critical step in tackling the persistent challenges posed by human-wildlife conflict in the region.
The Cabinet Secretary will also acknowledge the efforts of the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife in compensating victims of wildlife-related damages. Last week, the Ministry paid Ksh. 344 million to 1,122 claimants, 61 of whom are from Nyeri County. These payments are part of the Ministry’s broader commitment to addressing the concerns of communities living near wildlife conservation areas, where wildlife-related injuries, property damage, and loss of livestock have been significant issues.
In addition to launching the fencing project, Hon. Miano will plant trees in Kabaru as part of the Presidential Directives on addressing climate change. This gesture underscores the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to conservation efforts and environmental sustainability, in line with national priorities.
One of the key challenges highlighted by the Ministry is the perception among local communities that wildlife protection is prioritized over the welfare of people affected by human-wildlife conflicts. Over the past two years, the Ministry has paid out Ksh. 1.8 billion in compensation to victims of such conflicts, as mandated by the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act (2013).
The CS's visit to Nyeri County aims to enhance public education and awareness about wildlife conservation and human-wildlife co-existence. It will also provide an opportunity for residents to give feedback on how the government can better address the challenges they face.
“Human-wildlife conflict remains a major challenge for communities living near wildlife habitats, but through projects like the electric fence and continued compensation efforts, we aim to alleviate these issues and create a more harmonious relationship between wildlife and local people,” said Hon. Miano.
Following her engagements in Kabaru, the Cabinet Secretary will proceed to Hombe Forest in Mathira West to continue discussions with the public, addressing concerns and acknowledging more beneficiaries of the compensation scheme.
This visit is seen as an important step towards improving human-wildlife relations and ensuring that conservation efforts benefit both wildlife and the people living alongside them.
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