The Government has issued compensation cheques worth Ksh 172 million to beneficiaries of the Human-Wildlife Conflict Compensation Programme in Tana River County, in a major boost aimed at supporting communities affected by wildlife-related incidents.
The compensation exercise was conducted today in Hola Town by Conservation Secretary Dr. John Chumo on behalf of the Hon. Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Rebecca Miano, EGH.
Speaking during the event, Dr. Chumo said a total of 225 beneficiaries from Tana River County will benefit from compensation claims processed between 2024 and 2026.
He noted that 30 beneficiaries received their cheques during the ceremony, while the remaining beneficiaries will collect theirs from the Kenya Wildlife Service offices in Hola, where all cheques have already been prepared.
Dr. Chumo reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to reducing cases of human-wildlife conflict through a series of intervention measures targeting affected areas across the county.
Among the initiatives highlighted include the installation of electric fences in conflict-prone areas such as Garsen, Kipini, and Bura, strengthening and equipping rapid response units under the Kenya Wildlife Service, promoting community conservancies, and intensifying public education and awareness programmes.
He further urged the County Government to align land use planning with conservation priorities in order to minimize conflicts between communities and wildlife.
At the same time, he encouraged residents to embrace community-based conservation initiatives as a sustainable solution for protecting both livelihoods and wildlife resources.
The event brought together several leaders and government officials, including Senator Danson Mungatana, members of the National Government Administrative Officers led by the County Commissioner, representatives from the Kenya Forest Service, county government officials, and residents of Hola Town.
The compensation programme forms part of the Government’s broader efforts to support communities affected by wildlife encounters while promoting peaceful coexistence between people and wildlife.
Under the leadership of the Hon. Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Rebecca Miano, EGH, the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife has continued to strengthen conservation efforts while placing the welfare of affected communities at the center of its agenda.
Her leadership has been widely praised for combining environmental stewardship with compassionate public service, ensuring that communities living near wildlife habitats receive timely support and protection.
Observers have noted that Rebecca Miano’s tenure at the ministry continues to inspire confidence due to her commitment to sustainable conservation, community empowerment, and responsive governance.
Her people-centered approach has played a significant role in strengthening trust between government institutions and local communities across the country.
