How 400km solar-powered fence reduces human-wildlife conflict

Petra Somen (right), the captain of Rhino Charge Car number 19, gets guidance on tightening the fence wire from one of the Rhino Ark fence constructors on October 5, 2023. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

This harmonious coexistence, a testament to human ingenuity and nature's resilience, is made possible by an electric, solar-powered fence erected in 1989 by the Rhino Ark Charitable Trust, a non-governmental organisation partnering with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).

Stretching across Aberdare Forest and the community, this fence has transformed the lives of Riru's residents and nearby villages.

Initially, the organisations intended to erect a 38km electric fence around the Park Salient, extending into Mweiga farms with the mission to conserve Aberdare's wildlife and address human-wildlife conflicts.

However, over two decades, this humble fence evolved into the longest conservation barrier, spanning nearly 400km. Its guardian status extended to safeguard over 2,000 sq. km of vital forests in the Aberdare Conservation Area.

The seven-foot-tall electrified fence, completed in 2009 at a cost of Sh800 million, effectively deterred wildlife intrusions, fostering peaceful coexistence.

"Wild animals were frequent visitors to our villages. I remember a day when leopards strayed from the forest and killed over 25 sheep belonging to our neighbour," says Karue.

"They posed grave threats to our lives and livelihoods. Going to school was perilous, requiring us to wait until 10 m, accompanied by our parents for our children's safety."

"Since the electric fence's inception, life has dramatically improved. Pupils now travel to school as early as 5am, and the once-dreaded encounters with wild animals are distant memories," says Karue.

James Wanjohi's house in Mastoo village, Kieni East, after it was destroyed by an elephant that strayed from Mt. Kenya Forest on October 5, 2023. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

James Wanjohi, Wambui's husband, implores the Kenya Wildlife Service to expedite the assessment process and provide compensation for their losses.

"I cannot endure this dilapidated existence any longer. While elephants have previously ventured into our farms, this is the first time they have destroyed our homes. I kindly beseech KWS to assist me in rebuilding my house," he says.

Their property rests roughly a kilometre from the forest, sharing a common border. Unfortunately, elephants often breach the fence.

Wanjohi, a resident since 1972, has witnessed the ebb and flow of elephants from the forest, posing a grave threat during harvest season.

Wanjohi shares his optimism, saying, "We are looking forward to the day when an electric fence will be constructed here so that we can coexist with this wildlife like people in Aberdare."

A section of the fence in Narumoru Forest within the Mount Kenya ecosystem in Nyeri County on October 5, 2023. [ Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

To fund this project, they heavily rely on donors, with a substantial contribution coming from their annual event, the Rhino Charge.

"In the ongoing Mt. Kenya project, some sections have been successfully completed, while others are still a work in progress. Areas like the Laikipia plateau and conservancies, including Sangare, pose unique challenges due to inadequate fencing, sometimes leading to conflicts with the local community."

"After this phase, our goal is to reconnect Aberdare and Mt. Kenya, facilitating wildlife movement between the regions and potentially integrating conservancies like Sangare into the wildlife corridor," he adds.

Solar Powered Electric Fence constructed by Rhino Ark in Collaboration with Kenya Wildlife Service and other partners at Aberdare Forest in Nyeri county on October 5, 2023. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

The fencing project began in Kirinyaga County, then to Embu County, followed by Tharaka Nithi, and concluded in Meru.

"Before Rhino Ark's involvement, there was serious conflict between the community and elephants, leading to casualties on both sides," Mwangi says.

Paul Omondi, Deputy Park Warden for Mt. Kenya National Park, says fencing measures help safeguard human lives, conserve wildlife, and enhance community livelihoods.

"During our patrols, we identify hotspots and expedite issue resolution. Moreover, our community education initiatives focus on educating communities about responding to wild animal intrusions, preventing injuries, and ensuring swift actions."

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