14/04/2014
Paula Kahumbu
Another beautiful dawn over Nairobi Park and I can steal a few moments to reflect on what is happening here on the wildlife front. I cannot deny that there have been days when the continuing sights of dead and suffering elephants and rhinos threaten to kill my spirit - and it's not just me. Kenyans from all walks of life, and international donors, and tourists have admitted to feeling helpless, despondent and crushed. Our faith in KWS whose vision is "To save the last great species and places on earth for humanity” has lost it's shine - loss of wildlife, destruction of parks like Hells Gate, roads through parks and other blatant violations have been rampant. Poaching and trafficking of ivory and rhino horn in protected areas, denial and concealment of information. Threats. Lots of them have been hurled at us. But we have stood our ground. As conservationists we are here for a purpose, and our movement is infectious, now people from all sectors are joining us. No one wants to see a Kenya without wildlife. Everyone wants to be part of success. So, when I put things into perspective I am proud that we can celebrate some major successes. Most Kenyans ARE now aware of the scale of the poaching problem and how it affects them, Our president and parliament HAVE enacted a new and severe law, the ministry of Environment and Natural Resources IS taking bold and to many, unpopular steps to reign in poaching and corruption, the Media have take up their crucial role in making this issue a national concern and public interest. We ARE witnessing far reaching legal reforms and the Chief Justice and Director of Public Prosecutions have agreed to a schedule of intensive training, public participation, new legal structures and standard operating procedures. Those who had been quiet for fear of intimidation are now speaking out about the crisis which has deeply wounded our psyche. For the first time I am feeling quite hopeful and proud of my beloved country because our leaders ARE listening and ACTING and the public is making its message clear, we stand for excellence! As conservationists, we can now shift our focus and work to sustain public interest, accelerate change, demand inspiring leadership for environment, wildlife and nature, and replicate our successes in the region. Thank You Judi Wakhungu and everyone at the Ministry and at KWS for renewing Kenyans hope in turning this crisis around. Kenyan conservationists remain loyally committed to a future with all of the big five. ,
