Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fencing off wildlife sanctuaries as a measure to mitigate human- wildlife conflict.
While addressing residents in Tulaga, Kinangop, during a tree-planting event, Miano urged communities in Nyandarua, particularly in Shamata, to promptly report any stray wildlife to the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) for swift intervention.
She noted that resource competition, particularly for water, remains a primary cause of human- wildlife conflict and assured residents that the government is working to provide sustainable water sources for both communities and wildlife to minimize confrontations.
Miano further revealed that the government is fast-tracking compensation for victims of human- wildlife conflict to address the backlog of claims.
Observers note that fencing efforts are already underway in Lariak, Rumuruti and Marmanet South forests in Laikipia County as part of broader conservation efforts aimed at reducing wildlife encroachment into human settlements.
The CS also emphasized the need to empower communities living near wildlife sanctuaries and tourist destinations, announcing plans to help them establish hospitality businesses that could benefit from tourism.
She also introduced the Youth in Tourism and Conservation initiative, designed to engage young people in conservation and tourism by harnessing their innovative ideas.
Highlighting Nyandarua’s untapped tourism potential, Miano called on county leaders to develop historical sites and position the region as an agri-tourism hub where visitors can experience large-scale farming firsthand.
She expressed concern over the impact of climate change on agriculture, noting declining food and milk production.
She urged residents to participate in tree-planting initiatives, emphasizing that restoring forests could boost food security and restore Nyandarua’s former status as a leading food producer.
County Commissioner Abdrisack Jaldesa echoed her sentiments, describing climate change as both a social and economic issue.
On her part, nominated MCA Naomi Ngatia encouraged residents to plant indigenous trees to restore soil fertility and suggested distributing fruit tree seedlings to create alternative income opportunities and reduce dependence on logging and charcoal burning.
Miano also encouraged Nyandarua to introduce cultural festivals that showcase its rich heritage, similar to other counties that have successfully boosted local economies through cultural tourism.
Meanwhile, Gathara Ward MCA Geoffrey Kamwana and Kinyahwe/Tulaga Chairman Maina wa Kinyahwe proposed the construction of a library and the restoration of a colonial-era house to preserve the region’s historical significance.
On education, Miano challenged schools to restore Nyandarua’s legacy as an academic powerhouse, emphasizing that strong academic performance creates better opportunities for higher education and career advancement.
She concluded by reassuring residents of the government’s commitment to infrastructure development, highlighting ongoing road and electrification projects aimed at improving connectivity and economic growth.
