KWS Welcomes Hon. Rebecca Miano-Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife
Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Hon. Rebecca Miano Wednesday, August 21, 2024, made her inaugural visit to the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) headquarters, marking a new chapter in her role at the helm of the critical docket. The visit underscored her deep appreciation of the strategic parastatal under her ministry and its staff, especially in light of the sacrifices made by rangers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
During her visit, Hon. Miano expressed her heartfelt admiration for the dedication and professionalism of KWS staff. The highlight of her visit was the emotional wreath-laying ceremony at the KWS Heroes Monument, a tribute to the fallen rangers. "I am touched to witness the solemnity and significance of those rangers who gave their all," said Miano, adding, "laying a wreath at the monument for our fallen soldiers is a profound honour."
Acknowledging the vital role of KWS in Kenya's conservation efforts, Miano praised the organization’s contribution to the nation's economy through wildlife tourism, which has been instrumental in boosting Kenya's GDP. She emphasized the importance of wildlife conservation as a cornerstone of the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), which seeks to address socio-economic issues across the country.
The Cabinet Secretary also recognized the challenges faced in wildlife conservation and commended KWS Director General for his efforts through the Tunza Mali Yako Campaign. This initiative promotes peaceful coexistence between communities adjacent to national parks. "Teamwork is non-negotiable," she asserted, adding, "My vision is to see a vibrant, committed KWS. To that end, I promise my availability and as we work towards this dream, and urge everyone to uphold integrity in all our endeavors."
Looking ahead, Miano expressed her anticipation for the implementation of the new KWS Strategic Plan set to commence next month, highlighting staff welfare as a key priority in her administration. Her commitment to enhancing staff conditions was echoed by PS for Tourism and Wildlife, Ms Sylvia Museiya, who lauded the CS as a steadfast advocate for parastatals and emphasized the importance of respecting KWS staff. "After nursery school teachers, KWS rangers are among the most selfless individuals, putting their lives on the line to care for wildlife," she stated.
During the event, Kenya Wildlife Service Board of Directors chairperson Lt. Gen. (Rtd.) Walter Koipaton, expressed his appreciation for Hon. Miano’s support and promised to continue working diligently towards KWS conservation goals. "We take immense pride in the progress we have made, but there is still much to be done," Lt.Gen (Rtd.) Koipaton said. He also reaffirmed KWS's commitment to wildlife protection, with guidance from the board members and support from the ministry.
KWS Director General Dr, Erustus Kanga welcomed the CS warmly, highlighting that the headquarters at Nairobi National Park is more than just an office—it is a heritage site integral to KWS's existence. The Director General also announced the launch of the 2024-2028 Strategic Plan , which, he said, was developed through extensive consultations, and aligns with Kenya's Vision 2030 and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
The Strategic Plan will guide KWS in achieving its conservation and operational objectives while enhancing its impact on the environment and local communities. The DG invited the Cabinet Secretary to join as a steward in the Tunza Mali Yako campaign. This campaign aims to promote peaceful coexistence, support the wildlife economy, and mitigate human-wildlife conflict.
In his closing remarks, Dr Kanga promised to prioritize staff welfare, recognizing their hard work in elevating KWS on the global stage.
