Gov't pays Sh 2.8 billion for wildlife conflicts in Kilifi

Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano during an interview. [File. Standard]

Over 1,300 cases of human-wildlife conflict have been reported in Kilifi County since 2021 as the government issued compensation to families in a move officials say aims to restore trust in conservation.

Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano presided over the payout on July 2, noting the compensation offers more than financial relief.

"Today is not just about issuing compensation cheques. It is about restoring dignity, rebuilding trust and reaffirming our shared commitment to human welfare and wildlife conservation," said Miano.

Under the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act (2013), victims are entitled to Sh 5 million for loss of life, Sh 3 million for permanent disability and market-value compensation for property loss.

The government has disbursed Sh 2.8 billion countrywide so far, with Sh 1.36 billion under processing.

Miano announced six intervention pillars, including digitised payments, wildlife corridor restoration and expanded ranger deployment.

She added that 560 bags of food-300 rice and 260 beans-would be distributed in Kilifi.

Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Director General Erustus Kanga observed elephants and predators had destroyed over 50 acres of crops in Ganze, Magarini and Vitengeni in the past week.

"To the people of Kilifi: we have heard you loud and clear. We are responding not with promises but with action," noted Kanga.

KWS Board of Trustees Chairman Walter Koipaton described the payout as a step toward rebuilding trust between communities and conservation authorities.

"Conservation must never be a top-down agenda. It must be people-driven, community-led and nationally supported," stated Koipaton.

He outlined three priorities for the Board: fast-tracking pending claims, promoting alternative livelihoods through tourism and corporate social responsibility, and strengthening community engagement.

The event drew national and local leaders, including Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung'aro, Senator Stewart Madzayo, Woman Representative Gertrude Mbeyu and County Commissioner Josphat Biwott.