Over Sh60 million has been disbursed to families in Kilifi County as compensation for losses resulting from human–wildlife conflict, in what government officials described as a vital step toward restoring public trust and dignity for affected communities.

The payments, which cover claims dating back to 2014 and up to October 2020, are part of a broader effort by the government to settle long-standing compensation arrears related to human fatalities caused by wildlife.

Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano presided over the cheque distribution ceremony held in Marafa, Kilifi County.

She was joined by Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Board of Trustees Chairman Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Walter Raria Koipaton, KWS Director General Prof. Erustus Kanga, and other local leaders, including Deputy Governor Flora Chibule, Woman Representative Gertrude Mbeyu, MPs Owen Baya (Kilifi North), Paul Katana (Kaloleni), Kenneth Kazungu (Ganze), Members of County Assembly, and County Commissioner Josephat Biwot.

Miano emphasized that compensation for human wildlife conflict victims is a right enshrined in the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act not a discretionary gesture.

“This government is committed to transforming policy into real impact. Since 2021, Kilifi alone has reported more than 1,300 cases of conflict involving wildlife,” she noted. “Nationally, the current administration has already paid out Sh2.8 billion, with an additional Sh1.36 billion under review, underlining the government’s sustained commitment to alleviate the suffering of affected citizens.”

The CS also unveiled a comprehensive six-point strategy aimed at reducing future conflict. Key measures include the construction of wildlife corridors and fences, deployment of modern early warning systems, increased ranger presence, and community development through Corporate Social Investment (CSI) programs such as the construction of classrooms, provision of water tanks, and local infrastructure support.

Reaffirming KWS’s community-focused approach, Board Chair Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Koipaton said the agency is undergoing reforms to become more transparent, innovative, and solutions-driven.

“We’re reviewing our conservation approach to ensure it protects both wildlife and communities. The success of conservation efforts depends on meaningful partnerships and people-led initiatives,” he said.

KWS Director General Prof. Kanga acknowledged the persistent challenges faced by residents in Ganze, Kaloleni, and Magarini due to recurring wildlife incursions. He announced the deployment of a specialized Problem Animal Management Unit (PAMU) in Kilifi to enhance rapid response and improve residents' safety.

“These interventions are aligned with the KWS Strategic Plan 2024–2028 and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda. Our goal is to create a future where wildlife and people coexist peacefully and thrive together,” said Kanga.

The compensation effort, coupled with preventive measures and community empowerment initiatives, reflects a shift toward inclusive conservation and long-term coexistence between people and wildlife in Kenya’s coastal region.