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By Boniface Mulu
Kitui County, Kenya: The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) is embarking on a nationwide mission to revive dormant national reserves, a move set to create jobs and boost local economies. This announcement was made by KWS Director General, Professor Erastus Kanga, during a key meeting in Kitui.
Speaking at the Kitui Governor’s office on Saturday, Professor Kanga revealed that of Kenya’s 33 national reserves, a staggering 90 percent are inactive. “We are operationalising the national reserves for the benefit of our people. This creates employment for our youth, improves livelihoods, and will generate income,” he stated.
The meeting focused on implementing a new pact between KWS and the Kitui County government to revitalize the massive 45,000-acre South Kitui Game Reserve. The reserve was registered 45 years ago, but has not reached its full potential.
Professor Kanga outlined plans to introduce new wildlife species, including the black rhino, to the area. He also addressed the challenge of livestock grazing within the reserve, a common issue across Kenya that KWS is working to resolve. He highlighted the reserve’s unique global treasure: the pancake tortoise, which is found nowhere else on earth.
Kitui County Governor, Dr. Julius Makau Malombe, thanked the officials for their commitment, emphasizing the meeting’s importance on a non-working Saturday. “The subject matter is to look at how we can restore and conserve the South Kitui National Reserve,” he said, noting the cooperative spirit between the county, KWS, and the national government.
The event was also attended by Deputy Governor Augustine Kanani, County Commissioner Kipchumba Ruto, and other officials. Commissioner Ruto pledged the full support of the county security committee to help conserve the region’s rich wildlife, a move he believes will attract tourists and bring numerous benefits to Kitui.
This partnership marks a significant step towards unlocking the economic and environmental potential of one of Kenya’s hidden natural gems.
