Ruto challenges new KWS Rangers to combat poaching

President William Ruto at the Kenya Wildlife Service Law Enforcement Academy, Taita Taveta County. [PCS]

President William Ruto has presided over the passing out of 1,274 KWS rangers in Manyani, Taita Taveta County while urging them to strengthen wildlife protection and combat poaching in parks and reserves.

Speaking during the ceremony at the Kenya Wildlife Service Law Enforcement Academy, Ruto expressed his optimism that the new recruits can be entrusted with safeguarding the country's wildlife heritage after undergoing the rigorous six-month training.

"These are not just recruits; they are our Green Warriors, stepping up at a critical time when the need to protect and revitalise our environment has never been more urgent. Their courage, commitment, and diligence in service will significantly contribute to Kenya’s efforts to safeguard its priceless wildlife heritage," he said.

The Head of State alluded that wildlife conservation is a cornerstone of Kenya’s socio-economic success adding that it fuels the tourism industry that contributes a remarkable 10% to the country's GDP and sustains millions of livelihoods. 

"Through deliberate policies and partnerships, we have demonstrated that conservation and prosperity are not mutually exclusive but rather mutually reinforcing," Ruto added.

At the same time, Ruto praised the contributions of more than 250 conservancies, operated by communities and private entities under the umbrella of the Kenya Wildlife Conservancies Association stating that they have made it possible to reclaim critical land for conservation despite challenges such as climate change and land fragmentation. 

"Consider the example of Kalama Conservancy in Samburu County, where Saruni Lodge generates nearly Sh 1 billion annually through tourism revenue and employment opportunities. Similarly, Serolipi Conservancy, home to northern Kenya’s only community rhino sanctuary, attracts thousands of visitors each year, fostering economic growth and conservation pride. ," the President stated.

He at the same time stressed the Kenya Kwanza's administration commitment to addressing the human-wildlife conflict and mitigating the climate change impacts that exacerbate conflicts.

Ruto also commended KWS for mobilising sufficient revenue to finance 87 percent of its overall corporate budget through internally generated funds.

The new batch of rangers was recruited in April this year in an exercise conducted across the 47 counties.