Kenya Launches Second Phase of National Wildlife Census to Bolster Conservation Efforts
By John Waithaka
Kenya took a significant step in enhancing its wildlife conservation efforts as the Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Hon. Rebecca Miano, officially launched the Second Phase of the National Wildlife Census (2024-2025) at Sarova Shaba, Isiolo County. Accompanied by the Principal Secretary for Wildlife, Hon. Silvia Museiya, the event underscored the government’s commitment to sustainable wildlife management through the collection and use of scientific data.
Speaking at the launch, CS Miano highlighted the importance of the Laikipia-Isiolo-Samburu-Meru-Marsabit landscape in this phase of the census. She described the region as a global treasure, home to diverse ecosystems such as montane forests, savannahs, and semi-arid zones, as well as a rich cultural heritage. Local communities in the area, she noted, have long coexisted harmoniously with wildlife, contributing globally recognized indigenous knowledge and practices.
The CS emphasized that the census is not merely a headcount but a crucial exercise to address challenges such as climate change, invasive species, and zoonotic diseases. By gathering data, she explained, the country would gain insights into population trends, habitat health, and emerging threats to wildlife, enabling the formulation of actionable and sustainable conservation strategies.
During the event, CS Miano participated in a live aerial data collection demonstration, where she joined pilots and research scientists aboard an aircraft to observe the use of advanced aerial surveillance techniques. These efforts, combined with on-ground initiatives, ensure comprehensive coverage of wildlife populations across diverse habitats.
Following the aerial exercise, she toured the data centre, where she observed how information is processed and analyzed using cutting-edge tools such as Earth Ranger and ArcGIS. The data centre serves as the hub for interpreting findings from the census, equipped with state-of-the-art technology to support Kenya’s conservation agenda.
CS Miano lauded the invaluable contributions of partners such as the Tourism Promotion Fund (TPF), Kenya Wildlife Service, WWF-Kenya, Born Free Kenya, Save the Elephants, and county governments from Isiolo, Samburu, and Kitui, among others. She stressed the importance of collaboration in achieving Kenya’s conservation goals.
“As we launch this second phase, let us remain patient, resilient, and united. The data we gather will shape policies to protect our wildlife, secure their habitats, and create opportunities for our communities. The steps we take today will ensure a brighter, sustainable future for all Kenyans,” she said.
The launch was attended by members of the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Tourism and Wildlife, conservation organizations, and local government representatives. It marked a critical milestone in Kenya’s ongoing efforts to safeguard its rich wildlife heritage and reinforce its position as a global leader in conservation.
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