The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife has disbursed a cheque worth KSh 52,631,000 to 26 beneficiaries affected by Human-Wildlife Conflict (HWC) in Kitui County.
The event held in Mutomo, also marked the 2025 International Day for Biological Diversity, celebrated under the global theme “ harmony with nature and sustainable development”
The Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife was represented by Dr. Shadrack Ngene, the Wildlife Secretary, who led the official handover of the symbolic cheque. The amount represents compensation for injuries, deaths, and property loss caused by wildlife in the region.
In his remarks, Dr. Ngene emphasized the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to mitigating HWC through both compensation and proactive conflict-prevention strategies. He highlighted the importance of local communities in biodiversity conservation and the government’s resolve to support them in this shared responsibility.
The event was graced by Kitui County Deputy Governor Augustine Kanani, area Member of Parliament Dr. Nyamai, Members of the County Assembly (MCAs), and senior government officials including the Government Administrative Officers (GAOs) led by the County Commissioner. Various stakeholders and community members were also present to commemorate the day.
“This compensation not only brings justice to the affected families but also reinforces our collective commitment to harmonious coexistence with nature,” said Deputy Governor Kanani.
The International Day for Biological Diversity celebration served as a platform to raise awareness on the importance of biodiversity and the role of integrated conservation efforts in tackling the human-wildlife conflict.
The Ministry continues to work with county governments and partners to promote community resilience, habitat protection, and early intervention mechanisms to reduce conflict and foster coexistence.
