Kenya taps tech, green finance to protect wildlife, boost tourism

By James Murimi - Reporter

Kenya, December 19 2025 - The Kenyan Government is deploying advanced technology, expanding conservation infrastructure and unlocking green financing to strengthen wildlife protection and grow tourism, with a target of attracting more than five million visitors annually by 2027, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has said.

Prof Kindiki said tourism remains a key driver of economic growth, noting that safeguarding wildlife is central to sustaining Kenya’s competitiveness as a global destination.

He spoke on Friday during the passing-out parade of Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) cadet officers at Manyani in Taita Taveta County, where he underscored the need to diversify tourism products and revenues to reduce over-reliance on traditional safari tourism.

“Our progress is already visible. Tourism revenue rebounded strongly in 2024, restoring global confidence in Kenya,” the Deputy President said.

“The Government has set a clear target of welcoming five million visitors by 2027. We are diversifying tourism beyond the traditional safari into culture, sports, events, adventure and MICE tourism to ensure growth is broad-based and inclusive.”

As technology reshapes key sectors of the economy, Prof Kindiki said wildlife conservation has embraced innovation, with KWS rolling out Artificial Intelligence-enabled systems and modern surveillance tools to enhance security and response.

“We have strengthened security by deploying elite ranger units, expanding the conservation workforce, and modernizing surveillance using AI-enabled systems, drones, satellite-linked patrol tools and digital radio networks,” he said.

“Rapid-response capabilities have been upgraded and intelligence-led operations strengthened.”

The Deputy President said the Government is anchoring conservation on sustainable financing, including climate funds, carbon markets such as REDD+, conservation bonds, public-private partnerships and multilateral financing.

These measures, he said, are mobilizing capital for wildlife protection, habitat restoration, eco-tourism infrastructure and community enterprises while easing pressure on the Exchequer.

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“Wildlife and tourism create jobs, grow businesses and strengthen communities,” he said.

“When we secure our parks, we secure our economy. When conservation works for communities, the nation prospers.”

He highlighted recent milestones aimed at elevating Kenya’s conservation profile globally, including President William Ruto’s launch of the expansion of the Tsavo West Rhino Sanctuary from 92 square kilometres to 3,200 square kilometres, making it the world’s largest rhino sanctuary.

He also cited Cabinet approval of the Nairobi National Park–Kapiti Wildlife Corridor, reconnecting Kenya’s oldest park to its historic dispersal areas.

The Government is also establishing a National Wildlife Protection and Anti-Poaching Modernisation Framework and a National Wildlife Forensics and Intelligence Centre to combat poaching through science and technology.

“We are investing in the people on the frontlines,” Prof Kindiki said.

“With the recruitment of 1,500 rangers and cadets, improved welfare, specialised training and a clear housing policy for officers in remote and high-risk stations, we are building a professional, motivated conservation force. Rangers will be protected by the law.”

He called for accountability and respect for human rights in managing human-wildlife conflict, stressing that the rule of law must protect both communities and wildlife.

The Deputy President urged county governments to partner with KWS to reopen dormant parks and reserves, saying they are critical to job creation, community empowerment and local revenue generation.