By John Kariuki
The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) continues to foster strong collaborations with global conservation organizations to enhance wildlife protection and mitigate human-wildlife conflict. This morning, KWS Director General Prof. Erustus Kanga hosted a delegation from the Born Free Foundation, led by Will Travers OBE, Co-founder and Executive President, for a courtesy meeting aimed at strengthening conservation efforts in key ecosystems.
During the discussions, the two teams explored opportunities for deeper collaboration, particularly in the Meru, Kora, and Amboseli ecosystems. These areas are crucial wildlife habitats but are also hotspots for human-wildlife interactions, which often result in conflicts that threaten both community livelihoods and wildlife survival. Enhancing cooperation in these regions is essential to developing sustainable solutions that benefit both people and nature.
Born Free Foundation has been at the forefront of wildlife conservation in Kenya for over 40 years, implementing projects that address critical challenges in biodiversity protection. The organization has played a pivotal role in constructing lion-proof bomas to prevent predators from attacking livestock, thereby reducing retaliation killings by herders. They have also installed lion lights, an innovative deterrent system that helps keep lions and other predators away from homesteads, and have spearheaded conservation awareness programs to educate and empower local communities on peaceful coexistence with wildlife.
These initiatives have proven highly effective in mitigating human-wildlife conflict, ultimately promoting harmonious coexistence between communities and wildlife. By reducing livestock losses and fostering local engagement in conservation, Born Free has contributed to long-term wildlife protection while also supporting the well-being of people living near protected areas.
Prof. Kanga emphasized that strong partnerships between government agencies and conservation organizations are essential for the long-term success of wildlife conservation efforts. He highlighted the importance of leveraging expertise, resources, and community-driven approaches to ensure that conservation initiatives have a lasting impact.
Will Travers reaffirmed Born Free Foundation’s commitment to working closely with KWS to enhance conservation strategies, particularly in areas facing high human-wildlife conflict. He acknowledged the critical role that KWS plays in protecting Kenya’s wildlife and expressed optimism that through strategic collaboration, significant progress can be made in ensuring the survival of key species and securing their habitats for future generations.
This renewed collaboration between KWS and Born Free Foundation represents a shared vision for a future where Kenya’s wildlife and communities can thrive together. By combining scientific research, community engagement, and innovative conservation strategies, both organizations are setting a strong foundation for sustainable wildlife protection.
As Kenya continues to lead in wildlife conservation across Africa, partnerships like this remain vital in addressing conservation challenges, promoting biodiversity, and securing a better future for both people and wildlife.