Rebecca Miano, Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Presides Over Successful CWCC Sensitization Workshop
The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, in collaboration with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), concluded a significant Community Wildlife Compensation Committee (CWCC) sensitization workshop aimed at tackling the growing issue of human-wildlife conflict in Kenya. The workshop, held at the Bomas of Kenya, brought together key stakeholders from various sectors, including members of the CWCC, KWS officials, and community leaders from counties most affected by wildlife-related incidents.
In her closing remarks, the Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Rebecca Miano, EGH, emphasized the importance of human-wildlife coexistence, acknowledging the dual challenge Kenya faces as both a home to unique wildlife and a country with a welcoming and warm citizenry. “Kenya is blessed with the best of both worlds—exceptional wildlife and a resilient people,” Miano said. “But with this privilege comes the responsibility to foster a harmonious relationship between humans and wildlife.”
Miano highlighted the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to address human-wildlife conflict, noting that significant strides have been made in minimizing such conflicts through policy interventions and strategic initiatives. She particularly commended the efforts of the CWCC members for their commitment to facilitating fair and transparent compensation for victims of human-wildlife encounters, an issue that remains a source of tension in many regions.
Addressing the complexities of compensating victims, Miano pointed out that while financial compensation may provide some relief, it can never truly equate to the loss of human life or livelihood. She expressed the government’s commitment to offering support to affected communities and restoring their trust in the compensation system.
The Cabinet Secretary also introduced the new Digital Compensation Scheme Administration, which is set to revolutionize the way compensation claims are handled. The digital platform promises to streamline the claims process, enhance transparency, and reduce delays, all of which will contribute to fostering trust between affected communities and wildlife authorities.
Despite the progress made, Miano acknowledged that challenges still remain, including resource constraints and limited awareness in some communities about the available support systems. She called for continued innovation in resource mobilization and awareness campaigns to reduce the frequency of human-wildlife conflicts and improve the effectiveness of compensation schemes.
Looking to the future, Miano expressed confidence that the knowledge gained from the workshop would empower participants to serve as agents of change in their communities. “You are catalysts for a new era in Kenya’s management of human-wildlife conflicts,” she stated, encouraging CWCC members to implement what they had learned and work towards sustainable solutions.
In closing, Miano extended her heartfelt gratitude to the CWCC members and KWS teams for their dedication to this important cause, reiterating the government’s commitment to creating a more balanced relationship between Kenya’s communities and its wildlife.
The workshop, which is part of a broader initiative to address human-wildlife conflict across the country, also marks an important step towards improving the management of Kenya’s natural resources while safeguarding the livelihoods of its people.
Post Author
