Kenya warns infrastructure projects strain wildlife – census to steer action
Kenya’s Tourism and Wildlife Principal Secretary, Silvia Museiya, has warned that capital projects – including roads, rail, energy corridors and urban expansion – are displacing wildlife and increasing exposure to poaching, with climate change compounding pressures on habitats. She said accurate data from the Second National Wildlife Census will guide strategies to balance development with conservation, including targeted interventions, habitat restoration and maintaining connected ranges – critical for safeguarding assets central to wildlife tourism.
Kenya Wildlife Service Director General Erustus Kanga reported stabilising or rising elephant numbers in Tsavo, Amboseli and Laikipia–Samburu, steady rhino recovery and gains for hirola, Grevy’s zebra and mountain bongo, crediting strengthened protection and translocations. Officials said census findings will inform the KWS Strategic Plan 2024–2028, the National Wildlife Strategy 2030 and broader national commitments – measures intended to sustain biodiversity and underpin long‑term tourism value while major infrastructure projects advance.
Source: The Standard
