In a landmark move to address the growing challenge of human-wildlife conflict, President William Samoei Ruto today launched the 3rd Phase of the Human-Wildlife Conflict Compensation Program at Meru National Park. The event brought together top government officials, conservation leaders, and members of the public, signaling Kenya’s intensified commitment to protecting both its people and iconic wildlife.
Flanked by a high-powered delegation that included Deputy President H.E. Prof. Kithure Kindiki and key Cabinet Secretaries—Hon. Rebecca Miano (Tourism and Wildlife), Hon. Hanna Wendot Cheptumo (Gender, Culture, Arts and Heritage), and Hon. Geoffrey Ruku (Public Service)—President Ruto underscored the need to transform compassion into action.
“This program is not only about compensation. It is about empowering communities, preventing further loss, and integrating conservation into our national development goals,” said President Ruto during his address.
Tackling a Persistent Threat
Human-wildlife conflict remains a pressing issue for thousands of families living near protected areas. According to the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), 3,857 conflict incidents have been recorded in recent years, including 40 tragic human fatalities and 77 serious injuries, along with substantial livestock and crop losses.
The latest phase of the compensation program, implemented under the KWS Strategic Plan 2024–2028, is built on a bold and comprehensive response framework. This includes:
- Over 2,400 patrols, 355 wildlife drives, and 237 conservation education sessions in high-risk areas
- Deployment of a specialized Problem Animal Management Unit to respond swiftly to emerging threats
- Investments in conflict mitigation infrastructure such as electric fencing, predator-proof bomas, and solar deterrents
- Support for sustainable community livelihoods including beekeeping, fish farming, and fodder production
From Reaction to Prevention
While compensation remains vital for affected families, the government emphasized that prevention and community empowerment are the long-term solutions. These efforts are closely tied to the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), which prioritizes inclusive growth, rural development, and environmental stewardship.
“This is a whole-of-society approach. Conservation must benefit the people who live closest to wildlife,” said Hon. Rebecca Miano, Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife. “We are working to ensure that living near wildlife is not a burden but a blessing.”
A Vision for Coexistence
The presence of leaders like Meru Governor H.E. Rev Isaac Mutuma, Senator Hon. Kathuri Murungi, and KWS Board Chair Lt. General (Rtd) Walter Raria Koipaton reinforced the broad support behind the initiative.
Principal Secretary for Wildlife, Ms. Silvia Museiya, echoed the sentiment of unity: “We’re not just solving a problem—we’re building a future where communities and wildlife can thrive together.”
As Kenya forges ahead with this strategic and compassionate approach, the message from Meru National Park was clear: sustainable conservation is not only a national priority—it’s a shared responsibility.
Karibu, Tutunze Pamoja—Welcome, Let’s Protect Together.
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