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Rebecca Miano, the newly appointed Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, underscored her commitment to advancing wildlife conservation efforts in Kenya. The visit was marked by significant interactions with KWS leadership, staff, and key stakeholders.
Celebrating Conservation Efforts
Addressing the gathering, Miano emphasized the pivotal role KWS plays in preserving Kenya’s rich biodiversity, which is a cornerstone of the nation’s tourism sector. “Our remarkable wildlife drives safari tourism, which accounts for approximately 75% of the tourists visiting Kenya. This contributes significantly to our economy, making it the second largest contributor to Kenya’s GDP,” she stated.
Miano expressed her enthusiasm for the “Tunza Mali Yako” conservation education campaign, a timely initiative aimed at raising awareness and fostering a culture of wildlife stewardship among Kenyans. The campaign seeks to empower communities with the knowledge and skills needed to coexist harmoniously with wildlife, a goal Miano praised as both innovative and crucial for effective conservation.
Commitment to Governance and Collaboration
In her speech, Miano highlighted the importance of adhering to good corporate governance practices within KWS and maintaining effective communication with all stakeholders. She stressed that teamwork and collaboration are essential for the organization’s success, acknowledging the significant contributions of both civilian and uniformed KWS staff.
“Every KWS employee plays a vital role in driving this organization forward. My vision is to see a vibrant KWS committed to delivering tangible results,” Miano said. She also paid tribute to the Conservation Heroes Monument, honoring the memory of KWS staff who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
Looking Ahead
The Cabinet Secretary indicated plans to visit national parks in the near future to familiarize herself with the unique offerings of each park and engage with field staff. She expressed optimism about the new strategic plan for KWS, which promises to transform the organization into a more robust and resilient conservation entity.
Miano also called on KWS staff to uphold integrity and diligence in their duties, while supporting the government’s Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda. “We must prioritize what is best for all Kenyans and continue to improve the quality of life among our people,” she added.
Miano’s visit to KWS was well-received, with staff and stakeholders expressing renewed confidence in the leadership’s commitment to wildlife conservation. The Cabinet Secretary’s focus on governance, community engagement, and strategic planning marks a promising start to her tenure in the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife.
As Kenya continues to position itself as a global leader in wildlife conservation, the support and leadership of figures like Hon. Rebecca Miano will be pivotal in ensuring that the country’s rich natural heritage is preserved for future generations.
