Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano joined local leaders to hand over compensation cheques totaling KSh 21 million to at least 335 victims of human-wildlife conflict in Elgeyo Marakwet County.
The event took place at Rimoi National Reserve as part of this year’s World Wildlife Day celebrations.
The compensation marks a milestone in addressing longstanding claims by residents whose crops and livestock were damaged during wildlife incursions, particularly by elephants and other wild animals in areas surrounding the reserve. Many families had been waiting for relief for several years.
CS Miano on Tuesday described the payouts as more than financial relief, calling them a form of “recognition” for the frontline communities that coexist with wildlife. She said the government, through the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, has committed to prompt compensation for victims as part of a strategy to foster peaceful coexistence between people and nature.
“This year’s World Wildlife Day theme reminds us that our biodiversity is not just a gift to be admired, it’s a national brand and heritage to be jealously guarded. It’s the pride that makes Kenya truly magical and the Origin of Wonder,” CS Miano said in a social media post, highlighting the importance of wildlife conservation to national identity.
CS Miano announced plans to introduce a national digital system in the coming months aimed at fast-tracking the reporting and payment of compensation claims.
The system, she explained, will improve efficiency and reduce delays in processing cases, which have previously lingered due to manual procedures.
“This system will ensure efficiency and speedy execution, giving communities living alongside wildlife a reliable platform to seek redress,” she said.
The Cabinet Secretary also emphasised the importance of community participation in conservation, noting that local people should benefit directly from wildlife protection efforts.
Her message stressed that wildlife is not just an economic resource but a shared national asset that must be preserved for future generations.
By addressing human-wildlife conflict and compensating victims, the government aims to strengthen the relationship between conservation agencies and local communities.
This, officials say, will contribute to greater support for conservation policies and help protect Kenya’s rich biodiversity while enhancing livelihoods.
