By TCD TEAM
Hyraxes Conservancy of Kenya has unveiled a new Wildlife and Conservation Community Policing Initiative (WCCPI) aimed at addressing rising wildlife-related crimes and human-wildlife conflicts in areas bordering Tsavo East National Park and South Kitui National Reserve.
The project, headquartered in Mutha, Kitui South, targets communities grappling with increased arrests, court cases, loss of life, and destruction of property linked to conservation law violations.
According to the Conservancy, recent assessments revealed worrying trends, including rising deaths among both humans and wildlife, illegal trade in flora and fauna, strained relations between law enforcement and locals, and worsening economic insecurity.
The situation has also led to an increase in orphaned children due to imprisonment or death of parents involved in conservation-related offenses. These challenges prompted the Conservancy’s board to adopt a community-driven approach to conservation and law enforcement.
Under the initiative, 60 local community facilitators—two from each village—have already been enrolled from Ndakani, Mutha, and Mathima locations with support from area chiefs. The facilitators will educate residents on conservation laws, discourage the use of illegal weapons such as snares and poisons, promote peaceful coexistence with wildlife, and act as ambassadors of conservation.
The project also includes mobile conservation film shows, establishment of centralized offices at Kyusiani, and partnerships with government and conservation agencies.
The official public launch is scheduled for 26th February 2026, with expected outcomes including improved security, stronger community-government collaboration, and sustainable conservation practices in South Kitui.
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