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Prof. Charles Musyoki Highlights Multi-Stakeholder Approach for Protecting Vultures
Nairobi, September 7, 2024 — In a significant move for wildlife conservation, Prof. Charles Musyoki, Director of Wildlife and Community Service at Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), officially launched the Vulture Multi-Species Action Plan (2024-2034) during a virtual event on Friday. This initiative comes in anticipation of International Vultures Awareness Day (IVAD), celebrated today, September 7, 2024.
The Vulture Multi-Species Action Plan is a crucial framework designed to address the conservation needs of vultures across Kenya. It aligns with Section 49 of the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act, which mandates KWS to work with various stakeholders in developing comprehensive species action plans.
In his address, Prof. Musyoki underscored the vital ecological role that vultures play in maintaining healthy ecosystems. He emphasized that vultures, recognized as species of concern by the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Animals (CMS), require concerted conservation efforts at local, national, and global levels. The Raptors Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) also highlights the need for international cooperation in protecting these migratory birds.
The 10-year action plan outlines clear objectives for the restoration and conservation of eight vulture species found in Kenya. Prof. Musyoki called for a collaborative approach involving governments, non-governmental organizations, local communities, and international bodies to effectively implement the plan.
The virtual launch featured a panel of esteemed representatives, including experts from the Peregrine Fund, National Museums of Kenya, Nature Kenya, and senior KWS staff. The discussions centered on the need for a multi-stakeholder approach to ensure the successful execution of the action plan and the long-term survival of Kenya’s vulture species.
As Kenya marks International Vultures Awareness Day, the launch of this action plan represents a significant step towards safeguarding these important birds and underscores the country’s commitment to global wildlife conservation efforts
