The government has revealed plans to launch a Ksh8.3 billion project in Tsavo East, Tsavo West, and Meru National Parks, which aims to reduce human wildlife conflicts.
In a statement, the Ministry of Environment revealed that the projects, dubbed "Advancing human-wildlife conflict management effectiveness in Kenya through an integrated approach," will be financed by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), which will contribute Ksh1.3 billion, and additional co-financing of Ksh7 billion from other partners.
According to the ministry, the execution of the project, which is scheduled to kick off in August this year and continue until November 2030, will be fundamental in minimising the interaction of humans and wildlife, which often leads to the destruction of properties, such as farms, and the loss of animal and human lives in these parks.
"With a GEF allocation of $10.4 million and an anticipated $54.4 million in co-financing, the project will be implemented in Tsavo East, Tsavo West, and Meru National Parks," the ministry stated.
The announcement was made after the Environment Cabinet Secretary, Deborah Barasa, held a meeting with representatives from Conservation International (CI), which is the GEF implementing agency, on Wednesday, July 9, which has been deepening its collaboration with the government on environmental conservation and sustainability.
The CS assured that the government will be at the forefront of advocating and leveraging science-based, inclusive approaches to ensure the conservation of the environment.
“We appreciate CI’s alignment with our national priorities, especially on climate action, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable livelihoods,” Barasa said.
The announcement comes weeks after the government secured a Ksh16.484 billion ($126.8 million) loan from the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) for the Natural Resources Management Programme (INReMP), which aims at promoting environmental sustainability.
According to the National Treasury, Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, on Monday, June 23, the loan will have a 25-year repayment period.
According to Mbadi, the financing will be critical in addressing some of the pressing environmental challenges in the country, including environmental degradation and climate change.
The project is set to be rolled out in 11 countries, including Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, Trans Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Nandi, Kakamega, Kericho, Kisumu, Homa Bay, and Migori.
“This programme is not just about conserving the environment—it’s about securing the livelihoods of our rural communities, restoring their natural resources, and building resilience for future generations,” CS Mbadi said.
