Date Published:
On February 13, 2024, a significant milestone in Kenya’s conservation efforts was marked, as the Kenya Government, represented by the Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Dr. Alfred Mutua, in conjunction with the Loisaba Conservancy, celebrated the successful translocation of 21 black rhinos from Nairobi National Park, Olpejeta and Lewa Conservancies to Loisaba Conservancy in Laikipia County, in an 18-day exercise executed by highly qualified professionals. This achievement represents a testimony to meticulous research, collaboration, and determination in the face of past setbacks.
The journey towards this historic occasion was not without challenges. Lessons learned from the past served as a sobering reminder of the complexities involved in such conservation endeavors. Extensive research was conducted to identify and rectify past mistakes, ensuring that every precaution was taken to guarantee the safety and well-being of rhinos, as stated in an interview by Dr. Mutua and the KWS Director General Dr. Erustus Kanga.
Speaking at the celebration, Dr. Alfred Mutua underscored the importance of the exercise in Kenya's conservation efforts. He emphasized the critical role that partnerships between the government, wildlife research centers, conservation organizations, and local communities play in safeguarding Kenya's rich biodiversity. Dr. Mutua called for increased collaboration and synergy among stakeholders, highlighting the need for collective action to combat poaching, habitat loss, and other threats to Kenya's wildlife.
The sentiment of gratitude and collaboration echoed throughout the event, with various dignitaries expressing appreciation for the concerted efforts that made the translocation possible. This exercise was sponsored by The Nature Conservancy, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance and Space for Giants, Elewana Collection, Lewa and Olpejeta Conservancies. While addressing the celebrants, the Principal Secretary, State Department for Wildlife Silvia Museiya and KWS Board of Trustees Chair Lt. Gen. (Rtd.) Walter Koipotan thanked the sponsors and local community for their invaluable contribution towards the success of the exercise, noting their willingness to share resources demonstrates a profound commitment to the preservation of Kenya's natural heritage.
Dr. Erustus Kanga commended the management of Loisaba Conservancy for its dedication to conservation, hailing it as the 17th natural rhino breeding ground in the country following the successful translocation. He extended heartfelt gratitude to all the stakeholders involved, acknowledging their unwavering support and commitment to the cause.
Local leaders led by Laikipia County Governor H.E. Hon. Joshua Irungu echoed the call for collaboration, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in ensuring the continued growth and prosperity of the rhino population in Loisaba Conservancy. They promised their commitment to fostering a harmonious relationship between the community and conservation for the long-term success of conservation initiatives.
Tom Silvester, CEO of Loisaba Conservancy, pledged to work hand-in-hand with the local community to ensure the well-being and prosperity of the 21 newly translocated black rhinos. He reiterated the commitment of the conservancy to sustainable conservation practices, promising to prioritize the needs of both wildlife and people in their endeavors. He assured that the conservancy management will continue to monitor the progression of the rhinos in their new home; the 29,000 of its 58,000 acres set side by the Conservancy.
