Nairobi, Kenya – September 10, 2024
The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) is set to enhance its conservation efforts through a deepened partnership with the Czech Republic, following a high-level visit from a Czech delegation. Dr. Erustus Kanga, Director General of KWS, hosted the delegation led by Marta Anna Ledgard, Head of the Economic and Commercial Section at the Czech Embassy in Nairobi, to discuss strategic collaborations aimed at advancing wildlife conservation in Kenya.
The visit focused on reinforcing the collaboration between KWS and the Czech Republic in several key areas, including force modernization, advanced forensics technology, surveillance, and telecommunications. These areas are critical for bolstering Kenya’s wildlife protection capabilities and promoting a peaceful coexistence between humans and wildlife.
The Czech delegation comprised representatives from leading technology and defense companies, including ColtCZ, Compelson, Mesit, and Era a.s., who showcased their innovative solutions tailored for wildlife conservation. These companies are renowned for their expertise in areas such as arms manufacturing, forensic data analysis, communication systems, and surveillance technology, all of which are essential for effective wildlife management.
Dr. Kanga highlighted the importance of this partnership, stating, “Kenya’s rich biodiversity is a national treasure, and collaborations like this are vital in ensuring its preservation. The support from the Czech Republic, particularly in cutting-edge technology, will significantly enhance our ability to protect wildlife and address challenges such as poaching and human-wildlife conflict.”
Marta Anna Ledgard expressed the Czech Republic’s commitment to supporting Kenya’s conservation efforts, noting that the partnership aligns with their broader goals of promoting environmental sustainability and international cooperation. “We are proud to collaborate with KWS, bringing our expertise and technology to aid in the protection of Kenya’s iconic wildlife. This partnership is a testament to our shared dedication to safeguarding the natural world for future generations.”
The enhanced collaboration is expected to lead to the implementation of advanced surveillance systems, improved communication infrastructure, and more effective forensic capabilities within KWS. These advancements will enable better monitoring of wildlife populations, more rapid response to threats, and more efficient management of human-wildlife interactions.
This partnership marks a significant step forward in KWS’s mission to conserve Kenya’s wildlife heritage, ensuring that the country remains a global leader in biodiversity conservation. The continued cooperation between KWS and the Czech Republic is poised to bring about transformative changes in the way wildlife conservation is approached in Kenya, setting a new standard for international partnerships in environmental protection.