Yesterday, Kenya Wildlife Service staff gathered for a Prayer, Thanksgiving and Wellness Service under the theme “Anchored in Faith, Renewed in Hope, Transforming Together.” The service was an opportunity to thank God for His faithfulness, reflect on the journey so far, and recommit ourselves to conserving Kenya’s wildlife while serving the nation with integrity, excellence, and compassion.
The gathering brought together staff from Headquarters, Airwing, Central Workshop, Nairobi National Park, Nairobi Safari Walk, Orphanage, and Ngong Station. The atmosphere was one of unity and appreciation as colleagues from different stations reunited, sharing moments of laughter and camaraderie. It was a special reminder that while planning and hard work are essential, it is faith, hope, and togetherness that sustain us through challenges.
Director General Prof. Erustus Kanga expressed heartfelt gratitude to every member of staff, from wardens and rangers to veterinarians, scientists, pilots, and support teams. He also acknowledged the families whose sacrifice and unwavering support make it possible for KWS staff to serve effectively. “Together, you have demonstrated that conservation succeeds when people work together with a shared purpose,” he said, noting that the international community recognizes the good work done by the Service.
A Message of Care and Wellness
Speaking not only as a leader but as a father and colleague, the Director General delivered a simple but powerful message: do not suffer in silence. He encouraged staff to speak up when overwhelmed, to seek help through the Wellness Office or Chaplaincy team, and to remain hopeful, even as they cultivate genuine friendships for support. He reminded everyone that taking care of personal health, eating well, resting, and spending time with family is essential for personal wellness and effective service delivery.
The Director General emphasized that conservation is powered by people, noting that behind every uniform is a person whose well-being matters. He encouraged staff to remain united, prioritize their wellness, and support one another, while highlighting KWS’s efforts to operationalize the Chaplaincy and Staff Wellness Programme. Recognizing that caring for people is just as important as protecting wildlife, he noted that a healthy workforce is the foundation of a strong, resilient institution and called on staff to continue serving with dedication, integrity, and purpose.
Reflecting on the past three years, the Director General highlighted remarkable progress made possible through teamwork and dedication. The recruitment of 1,274 Rangers and 147 Cadet Officers, alongside professional training for 3,608 officers, has strengthened the frontline workforce and enhanced professionalism across the Service. Internally generated revenue grew significantly, enabling investment in modern technology including satellite connectivity, vehicles, aircraft, boats, and the EarthRanger real-time monitoring system. Staff welfare has also improved through enhanced medical support, counselling services, career development, and the approval of a new organisational structure.
The KWS staff also celebrated Director General Prof. Erustus Kanga’s reappointment for a second three-year term. He shared his commitment to strengthening conservation, investing in staff welfare, embracing innovation, and building a financially sustainable, people-centred institution. “Our people remain our greatest asset,” he emphasised, promising continued investment in staff welfare, professional development, and wellness services.
As the service concluded, the Director General urged staff to remain united, choose hope over fear, and prioritise service over self-interest. “When one member of staff succeeds, KWS succeeds. When one ranger protects wildlife, our nation benefits.”
The service ended with prayers for continued guidance, protection, unity, and wisdom. Together, we remain anchored in faith, renewed in hope, and united in our commitment to conserving Kenya’s wildlife for generations to come.