Miano says KWS rangers deserve better working conditions

Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano has underscored the importance of improving the working conditions and welfare of Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) personnel.

Speaking at KWS headquarters in Nairobi, Thursday, Miano emphasized the critical role played by KWS rangers, particularly as the custodians of Kenya’s wildlife heritage.

She highlighted KWS mandate to safeguard Kenya’s rich biodiversity and foster sustainable wildlife management practices.

The CS lauded KWS rangers who work under difficult conditions to protect the nation's wildlife, acknowledging the ultimate sacrifice some have made in the line of duty.

“KWS has tragically lost 75 rangers while on active duty. Their heroism and sacrifice are a testament to their unwavering commitment to our wildlife,” she said.

She promised to collaborate closely with KWS to promote conservation efforts, increase public awareness, and empower local communities to live harmoniously with wildlife.

“Our remarkable wildlife drives safari tourism, which constitutes approximately 75 per cent of all visitors to Kenya. Tourism generates crucial foreign exchange and is the second largest contributor to Kenya’s GDP,” she said.

This comes as Kenya grapples with human-wildlife conflict. 

The most prevalent issues include crop raiding, which affects 50 per cent of the affected areas, attacks on humans (27.3 per cent), and livestock depredation (17.6 per cent). Addressing these conflicts remains a key priority for KWS.

KWS Director General Erustus Kanga highlighted the importance of strategic planning in addressing environmental threats such as habitat loss, poaching, and climate change.

“Our strategic plan encourages the adoption of innovative conservation methodologies and technologies,” he explained.

“It is crucial that we adapt to the dynamic challenges we face in wildlife conservation,” he added.

According to the Kenya Wildlife Strategy, wildlife movement is seasonal between protected and dispersal areas, with 65 per cent of wildlife located outside protected areas and up to 70 per cent within the areas.

This situation underscores the need for increased community involvement in wildlife conservation efforts.

Kenya is renowned for its significant wildlife population, boasting the third-largest population of rhinos and the fourth-largest population of elephants in Africa, with 35,538 elephants recorded.

However, the Kenya Wildlife Strategy reveals a 68 per cent decline in the total wildlife population since 1977. This calls for a strategic approach to address ongoing conservation challenges.

The KWS strategic plan outlines extensive implementation framework with clear activities, targets, and responsibilities.

An estimated Sh100 billion is projected to implement the strategic plan and KWS has committed to develop a robust resource mobilisation strategy to secure the necessary funding.

The plan will undergo continuous performance reviews and annual assessments to evaluate progress and address any emerging issues.

Miano’s visit and the subsequent strategic initiatives signal a renewed commitment to the welfare of KWS staff and the effective conservation of Kenya’s wildlife heritage.