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Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano has announced the government’s commitment to modernizing the training programs for Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) recruits.
Speaking at the Kenya Wildlife Service Law Enforcement Academy in Manyani, Miano emphasized that the ministry is focused on enhancing capacity development within KWS to ensure that it can effectively address the emerging challenges in wildlife conservation.
Miano highlighted the academy’s critical role as a premier center of excellence in wildlife conservation and management training. She noted that the institution is not only foundational to Kenya’s commitment to wildlife conservation but also serves as a hub for local, regional, and international collaborations.
“This academy is a foundation and abiding emblem of our nation’s commitment to both wildlife conservation and excellence in our tourism undertakings. Its impact extends far beyond our borders,” Miano remarked, pointing to the strong partnerships that have bolstered Kenya’s global conservation efforts.
The academy’s influence reaches beyond Kenya’s borders, having trained wildlife experts from neighboring countries such as Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and South Sudan. This regional training hub has played a significant role in fostering cooperation and enhancing the capabilities of wildlife conservation professionals across East and Central Africa.
Miano also used the platform to call on Kenyans to take an active role in championing wildlife conservation, noting its critical importance to the country’s tourism industry. She revealed that a staggering 90% of safari tourism is driven by Kenya’s wildlife, with approximately 75% of tourism earnings dependent on the country’s rich biodiversity. “A significant 10% of Kenya’s GDP is anchored on our wildlife economy. Therefore, devoid of wildlife, Kenya’s economy would be an entirely different story,” she stated, underscoring the centrality of wildlife to the nation’s economic well-being.
Kenya has long been a major tourist destination in East Africa, attracting visitors from around the world to its renowned wildlife parks and scenic Indian Ocean beaches. Miano’s remarks reflect the government’s recognition of the vital link between wildlife conservation and the continued success of Kenya’s tourism industry, which remains a key pillar of the national economy.
As the government works to modernize KWS training, the hope is that Kenya will not only maintain but also enhance its position as a global leader in wildlife conservation and tourism.
