Govt Launches Digital Payout System to Ease Human-Wildlife Conflict Burden
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The government has unveiled a tech-powered compensation system to fast-track payments to victims of human-wildlife conflict, offering hope to thousands living near conservation areas.
Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano launched the platform in Nairobi, calling it a game-changer in addressing long-standing delays and opacity in claim settlements.
“This is more than a system—it’s a commitment to those living with the cost of conservation,” Miano said.
Piloted in six counties, the digital platform uses real-time data and mobile money services like M-Pesa to speed up payments, especially for minor claims. So far, Ksh 10 million has been paid out, with 804 cases awaiting disbursement.
The new model also revives Community Wildlife Compensation Committees (CWCCs), empowering locals to vet claims and ensure fairness. The aim is to reduce red tape and root out corruption that has plagued the manual process.
But the scale of the problem remains large. Over 20,000 claims are still pending, with a backlog estimated at Ksh 1.36 billion. Last year alone saw 8,272 incidents, highlighting the growing urgency.
To raise awareness and build trust in the new system, the ministry will host a nationwide campaign, culminating in a major compensation event in Meru on May 26.
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