Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has issued a firm warning against the harassment and attacks on Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) officers, pledging that the government will apply the full force of the law to protect rangers from growing threats and civilian violence.
Speaking on December 19, 2025, during the pass-out parade of KWS cadets at the Manyani Training Field, Kindiki said the safety of rangers was non-negotiable, stressing that anyone who threatens or harms them will face serious legal consequences.
“Rangers will be protected by the law and those who threaten or attack them shall face the full force of justice,” Kindiki declared.
At the same time, the Deputy President urged KWS officers to exercise their authority responsibly, reminding them that conservation enforcement must go hand in hand with respect for human rights.
“Conservation authority must always be matched with accountability and respect for human rights; the rule of law must respect both people and human rights,” he said.
Kindiki challenged the 147 cadets who successfully completed their training to remain committed to protecting wildlife while responding to emerging challenges, particularly those arising from increased human-wildlife interactions. He also urged the new rangers to safeguard Kenya’s natural resources as part of their duty to the nation.
The Deputy President revealed that the government is rolling out a world-class wildlife protection and anti-poaching modernisation framework that will leverage modern technology across protected areas. He noted that enhanced surveillance and digital tools would play a key role in strengthening conservation efforts.
He further said the government is intensifying cross-border cooperation to dismantle international wildlife crime networks, which continue to pose a threat to conservation efforts in the region.
As part of the broader reforms, Kindiki announced plans to establish a national wildlife forensic and intelligence centre aimed at fighting poaching using scientific methods and data-driven intelligence.
The Deputy President also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve the welfare of KWS officers, including specialised training programmes and the provision of proper housing for rangers and cadet officers.
Looking ahead, Kindiki said the government is working to unlock Kenya’s tourism potential by reopening and revitalising previously inactive national parks and reserves across all 47 counties, positioning wildlife conservation as a key pillar of economic growth.
