The Kenyan Government has allocated Ksh 950 million to compensate victims of human-wildlife conflict, President William Ruto announced on Monday. Speaking during the launch of the third phase of the human-wildlife compensation programme in Murera, Meru County, the President emphasized his administration’s commitment to justice and dignity for affected communities.
President Ruto stated that the new funds are aimed at clearing a backlog of pending claims and enhancing the efficiency of the compensation process. “We are therefore allocating sufficient resources to pay pending claims, deploying technology to eliminate inefficiencies, and operationalising the Wildlife Conservation Trust Fund; a sustainable financing vehicle supported by innovative funding mechanisms,” he said.
Human-wildlife conflict remains a pressing issue in many parts of the country, particularly in areas bordering national parks and wildlife reserves. Residents often suffer from loss of life, injuries, destruction of property, and loss of livestock due to wild animal incursions.
By streamlining the compensation framework and embracing technological tools, the government aims to improve transparency and expedite claim settlements. The operationalisation of the Wildlife Conservation Trust Fund is expected to provide long-term financial support for victims and enhance coexistence strategies between humans and wildlife.
The President reiterated his government’s resolve to protect both people and wildlife, underlining that conservation efforts must go hand-in-hand with community welfare.
More updates to follow as the programme progresses.
Written By Rodney Mbua
