KWS PARKS AND RESERVES DIRECTOR PASSES ON

Release Date: 
Tuesday, December 25, 2018 - 09:15

Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) regrets to announce the death of its Director of Parks and Reserves, Mr. Julius K. Kimani which occurred on Sunday 23rd December, 2018 at 6:00 p.m.

The late Kimani was a career wildlife conservationist who worked with KWS for over thirty years in many parts of the country and in different capacities.

The deceased joined the then Wildlife Conservation and Management Department (WCMD) in 1987 as an Assistant Warden II (AW II) before it transitioned into Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) in 1989.

He was a long serving and dedicated career conservationist who rose steadily through the ranks to be appointed Deputy Director Parks and Reserves in 2014. Last year in August he was confirmed as Director of Parks and Reserves. Mr. Kimani is the first highest ranked officer to die in office.

He acted as KWS Director General for two terms for a combined total period of over one year. He was a graduate of National Defence College and held a Diploma in Wildlife Management from Egerton University. He also had a Diploma in International Studies from the University of Nairobi.

In his message of condolence, KWS Chairman Board of Trustees, Dr. John Waithaka said he has lost a dear friend, a dedicated conservationist, and a gallant defender of Kenya’s precious wildlife heritage. “The death of Julius Kimani is a great loss, and it will be felt across KWS and in wider conservation circles” the chairman said as he consoled the family.

In his message of condolence, acting KWS Director General, Prof. Charles Musyoki described the deceased as a focused, courageous, disciplined and hardworking officer who gave his best to wildlife conservation.

A condolence book has been placed at the main reception of KWS headquarters on Langata road for those wishing to pay their respects.

Mr. Kimani’s burial will take place on 2nd January, 2019 in Kinangop, Nyandarua County.