President William Ruto has renewed the appointment of former Kajiado Governor David Nkedianye as the Non-Executive Chairperson of the Wildlife Research and Training Institute (WRTI) Board for another three years, extending his stay at the helm of one of Kenya’s key conservation agencies.
The reappointment, contained in Gazette Notice No. 8028 dated May 29, 2026, will see Nkedianye continue overseeing the institution responsible for wildlife research, conservation training, innovation and scientific studies that help shape wildlife management policies in the country.
Following the announcement, the Institute’s Board of Directors, management and staff welcomed the decision, describing it as a strong vote of confidence in Nkedianye’s leadership and contribution to the growth of the institution.
In a statement, WRTI said the former governor had played a critical role in strengthening the institute’s position as a centre of excellence in wildlife research and capacity development while helping build strategic partnerships that support conservation efforts both locally and internationally.
The institute further noted that under Nkedianye’s leadership, WRTI has continued advancing evidence-based conservation programmes and supporting national and global wildlife protection priorities.
The endorsement from the institution is significant given the growing role research is playing in addressing challenges such as human-wildlife conflict, climate change, habitat loss and protection of endangered species.
Nkedianye’s continued stay at the agency also comes at a time when the government is placing increased focus on conservation and environmental protection.
This comes as president Ruto on Sunday reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to aggressive environmental restoration efforts, expressing confidence that the country will achieve its target of growing one billion trees this year as part of the broader plan to plant 15 billion trees by 2032.
Beyond conservation, the reappointment is also likely to attract political interest.
Nkedianye remains a recognizable political figure in Kajiado and has maintained influence in the county years after leaving office.
His fresh State appointment is expected to further boost his visibility as political activities ahead of the 2027 General Election gradually begin taking shape.
For now, however, the Wildlife Research and Training Institute says the focus remains on building on the gains made during his previous term and strengthening Kenya’s position as a leader in wildlife research, conservation science and environmental sustainability.
The institute wished Nkedianye success in his new term, expressing confidence that he will continue providing strategic leadership and oversight as it pursues its conservation and research mandate.