The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) joined media stakeholders, government officials, and industry leaders at the Annual Media Awards held at Safari Park Hotel, a prestigious event that celebrates excellence in journalism and storytelling across Kenya. The ceremony was graced by Hon. Rebecca Miano, EGH, Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, and attended by Chief Executive Officers, Board Chairpersons, media stakeholders, and representatives from various government agencies.
The event provided a platform for recognizing the critical role that the media plays in shaping public discourse on conservation, environmental sustainability, and national development. KWS’s participation underscored the Service’s commitment to fostering strong partnerships with the media, recognizing that accurate, compelling storytelling is essential for raising awareness about wildlife conservation and inspiring collective action.
Celebrating Journalistic Excellence
During the ceremony, Cynthia Gichiri of The African Uncensored received the Agriculture and Food Security Award in recognition of her outstanding reporting on issues critical to Kenya’s development. The award was presented by Duncan Juma, Head of Corporate Communication at KWS, on behalf of KWS Director General Prof. Erustus Kanga. Her work has shed light on the intersection of agriculture, food security, and environmental sustainability, contributing to public understanding of these interconnected challenges.
The event also saw Christopher Kipsang crowned Journalist of the Year 2026, a prestigious honour recognizing his exceptional contribution to journalism and storytelling. His work has demonstrated the power of the media to inform, educate, and inspire, setting a high standard for journalistic excellence in Kenya.
The Link Between Food Security and Conservation
KWS recognizes the strong link between food security and wildlife conservation. Empowered communities with sustainable livelihoods are less likely to engage in poaching and bushmeat hunting, as they have access to alternative sources of protein and income. When communities are food secure and economically stable, they become partners in conservation rather than threats to wildlife.
This understanding is central to the KWS approach to conservation. The Service works closely with communities living near protected areas to promote sustainable livelihoods, including ecotourism, agroforestry, and other nature-based enterprises. By addressing the root causes of wildlife crime, KWS is building a foundation for long-term conservation success.
KWS reiterated its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote environmental sustainability, community empowerment, and peaceful coexistence between people and wildlife. The media plays a crucial role in advancing these goals by focusing on narratives that highlight conservation successes, expose wildlife crime, and inspire public action.
Aligning with the KWS Strategic Plan
KWS participation in the media awards aligns with our Strategic Plan 2024–2028, which emphasizes the importance of stakeholder engagement and public awareness in achieving conservation goals. The plan recognizes that effective communication is essential for building public support for conservation, promoting responsible tourism, and fostering a culture of environmental stewardship.
The Strategic Plan also highlights the importance of partnerships in advancing conservation. By working with the media, KWS is able to reach diverse audiences, amplify conservation messages, and build a broad coalition of support for protecting Kenya’s natural heritage.
Through continued collaboration, KWS and the media can inspire a new generation of conservation champions and build a future where wildlife thrives and communities prosper. The Annual Media Awards serve as a reminder of the power of storytelling and the importance of recognizing those who use their craft to make a difference.