The 3rd International Wild Equid Conservation Conference officially commenced today at the Aberdare Prestige and Royal Cottages in Nanyuki, Laikipia County, with a keynote address by the Director General of the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), Prof. Erustus Kanga. The conference, which has brought together a diverse group of participants from 22 countries across the globe, aims to address the urgent and complex issues surrounding the conservation of wild equid species, including zebras, wild asses, and other related species.
In his opening remarks, Prof. Kanga expressed gratitude to the conference organizers and participants for gathering in Kenya to discuss the future of wild equids. He highlighted Kenya’s strong commitment to wildlife conservation, particularly in the realm of community-based conservation. “Kenya has long been a global leader in wildlife conservation, not only through government initiatives but also through the active involvement of local communities in protecting their natural resources,” said Prof. Kanga. “We have learned that conservation is not just about policies and laws; it’s about ensuring local people benefit directly from the preservation of wildlife.”
Kenya’s community conservancy model has become a model for many other countries, particularly in northern Kenya, where over 50 community conservancies manage vast rangelands that are home to endangered species such as the Grevy’s zebra. These conservancies have empowered more than 700,000 local people to become stewards of wildlife, fostering sustainable practices and generating income through eco-tourism and other conservation-related activities.
One of the key highlights of the conference has been the discussion of the significant challenges that wild equids face globally. Prof. Kanga detailed the pressing issues affecting wild equid populations, including climate change, loss of habitat, infrastructure development, poaching, and competition with livestock. Emerging diseases that threaten equid populations—from the wild asses of Central Asia to Africa’s zebras—are also of growing concern. “The situation is dire, and the threats to wild equids are becoming increasingly complex,” Prof. Kanga remarked. “It is crucial that we address these challenges with a global, coordinated response.”
In his address, Prof. Kanga emphasized the need for international collaboration and alignment of policies to ensure that wild equid species are preserved for future generations. He pointed out that while many countries have taken significant steps toward protecting wildlife, a unified approach is essential to effectively tackle the many threats that equids face. “We must build stronger partnerships across borders to create a world where wild equids roam freely, not just in Kenya but across the globe,” he said.
The conference also served as a platform to discuss various conservation strategies that can be implemented to protect wild equids. Experts shared knowledge on best practices, innovative conservation methods, and the importance of involving local communities in decision-making processes. One of the critical discussions centered around strengthening the role of local communities in the protection of wildlife, with many participants highlighting the need to create incentives for communities to engage in long-term conservation efforts.
Prof. Kanga also highlighted the role of the KWS Strategic Plan for 2024-2028 in addressing these challenges. He noted that the plan envisions a more integrated and inclusive approach to wildlife conservation, with a strong emphasis on community involvement and cross-sector partnerships. “The KWS Strategic Plan aims to create a conservation model that benefits both wildlife and local communities, ensuring that wildlife conservation becomes a sustainable endeavor,” he stated.
The 3rd International Wild Equid Conservation Conference is expected to produce a series of resolutions and action points that will guide future conservation efforts for wild equids. As discussions continue throughout the event, participants are expected to delve deeper into solutions that can protect these vital species from the growing pressures they face.
The conference has attracted a wide range of stakeholders, including wildlife experts, researchers, policymakers, non-governmental organizations, and community leaders. Together, they are working toward a shared goal of securing the future of wild equids and ensuring that their populations continue to thrive in their natural habitats.
The event also shines a light on Kenya’s role as a global leader in wildlife conservation and its continued efforts to safeguard biodiversity. As the conference progresses, the focus will remain on creating lasting partnerships and finding innovative solutions to the challenges posed by climate change, poaching, and habitat destruction, among other issues.
With the increasing threats to wildlife worldwide, the 3rd International Wild Equid Conservation Conference is seen as a crucial opportunity for experts and conservationists to come together and forge new alliances. The discussions here in Nanyuki will undoubtedly shape the future of wild equid conservation, both in Kenya and across the globe, helping to secure a brighter future for these magnificent animals.
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