07/05/2026
Today, the Conservation Secretary, Dr. John Chumo, on behalf of Hon. Hon. Rebecca Miano, EGH , Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, issued cheques worth Ksh 172 million to beneficiaries of the Human-Wildlife Conflict Compensation Programme in Tana River County.
Speaking during the event, Dr. Chumo noted that a total of 225 beneficiaries from Tana River County will benefit from compensation claims processed between 2024 and 2026.Out of the total beneficiaries, 30 received their cheques during today’s ceremony, while the remaining beneficiaries will collect theirs from the Kenya Wildlife Service offices (Hola), with all cheques already prepared.
Dr. Chumo reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to reducing cases of human-wildlife conflict through various interventions, including the installation of electric fences in hotspot areas such as Garsen, Kipini, and Bura, strengthening and equipping KWS rapid response units, promoting community conservancies, and enhancing public education and awareness programmes.
He further encouraged the County Government to align land use planning with conservation priorities and urged communities to embrace community-based conservation initiatives as a sustainable approach to protecting both livelihoods and wildlife.
Present during the event were Senator Danson Mungatana, members of the National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO) led by the County Commissioner, representatives from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), Kenya Forest Service (KFS), the County Executive Committee Member for Environment representing the Governor, as well as the great people of Hola Town.
The compensation programme underscores the Government’s continued commitment to supporting affected communities while fostering coexistence between people and wildlife.