A public forum organized by the State Department for Wildlife and the Amboseli National Park Advisory Committee provided a platform for discussions on the proposed transfer of Amboseli National Park’s ownership from the National Government to the Kajiado County Government. The forum aimed to validate the Advisory Committee’s report and seek public consent before submitting a final draft to the Cabinet for approval.
The committee warned that failure to transfer the park’s management could lead to its decline, including threats of subdivision and privatization of the land, which would jeopardize its wildlife and conservation efforts.
Importance of Amboseli to the Economy and Conservation
Speaking at the forum, Engineer Francis Maliti, Chair of the Amboseli National Park Advisory Committee, highlighted the critical role the park plays in Kenya’s economy by supporting tourism, transport, agriculture, and hospitality. He noted that transferring ownership to the Kajiado County Government could unlock regional development opportunities, create jobs, and improve the livelihoods of local communities.
Maliti also commended the co-existence between the Kajiado community and wildlife, pointing out that 85% of the animals rely on adjacent community lands during seasonal flooding. He stressed that this harmonious relationship has been instrumental in the conservation of Amboseli’s wildlife.
The park spans 392 square kilometers and generates approximately Sh1.5 billion annually. Maliti assured that any transfer of ownership would prioritize ensuring that the Kajiado community reaps maximum benefits, including improved living standards and enhanced conservation efforts.
Conservation Concerns
Dr. David Western, Chairperson of the African Conservation Centre, echoed the importance of Amboseli’s wildlife conservation. Citing his work monitoring elephants since 1967, he reported a doubling of their population over the years, attributing the success to the Kajiado community’s active role in fostering a conducive environment for wildlife. He emphasized the need for continued collaboration to safeguard Amboseli’s ecosystem for future generations.
Community Feedback and Concerns
During the forum, members of the public raised several concerns regarding the proposed transfer. Key issues included:
- Compensation for Human-Wildlife Conflicts: Residents urged the government to address long-standing compensation claims.
- Allocation of Transport Maintenance Levies: They suggested directing a percentage of these levies to maintain park infrastructure.
- Local Employment: Participants emphasized prioritizing employment opportunities in the park for Kajiado County residents.
- Education Funding: Attendees proposed channeling part of the park’s revenue to enhance education in Kajiado, particularly for initiatives supporting the girl-child.
The forum underscored the importance of balancing conservation with community development to ensure Amboseli National Park remains a vital resource for both wildlife and the people of Kajiado.
