Kenya commemorated the International Day for Biological Diversity on May 22 with a renewed national focus on addressing the escalating human-wildlife conflict and promoting coexistence between people and nature.
The celebrations, held in Kitui County, were led by Wildlife Secretary Dr. Shadrach Ngene, who delivered a keynote address on behalf of Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Rebecca Miano. In his speech, Dr. Ngene underscored the pressing need to tackle the increasing interactions between wildlife and human populations that result in serious consequences.“Elephants, hyenas, and other species continue to encroach on human settlements, resulting in crop destruction, livestock predation, injuries, and even fatalities,” the speech stated.
These conflicts, Miano noted, have far-reaching economic and psychological impacts, threatening both community welfare and conservation efforts.In response, the government has intensified compensation initiatives under the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act, 2013.
Since 2023, more than Ksh 2.3 billion has been disbursed—the highest compensation ever recorded in Kenya’s history. Operations of the Community Wildlife Compensation Committees (CWCC) resumed on May 12, 2025, with efforts underway to clear pending claims.
While compensation remains vital, Miano emphasized the need for long-term solutions. These include erecting electric fences, introducing predator-proof enclosures, deploying drones and early warning systems, and supporting eco-tourism and community-based conservation projects.
The Cabinet Secretary also reaffirmed Kenya’s dedication to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF), particularly the ambitious 30×30 target aimed at conserving 30% of Kenya’s land and marine areas by 2030.
Ongoing efforts include expanding wildlife conservancies, restoring wetlands, and updating the Wildlife Act.“We must ensure that families who bear the brunt of wildlife encounters do not suffer in silence,” Miano said. “Let us renew our commitment to protecting biodiversity while improving human livelihoods.”
This year’s global theme, “Harmony with Nature and Sustainable Development,” framed the ceremony with a call for unity in conservation and sustainable living, especially for communities residing near wildlife habitats.
