The government has announced new measures to enhance wildlife tourism in Baringo County, aiming to unlock the region’s potential as a prime destination for eco-tourism.
Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano made the announcement during World Wildlife Day celebrations at Kiborgoch Conservancy in Baringo South, highlighting the county’s diverse natural attractions, unique wildlife, and cultural heritage as key assets that require strategic investment.
Miano stated that for years, Baringo’s tourism sector has remained largely untapped, but the government is now prioritizing its development through infrastructure projects, conservation initiatives, and financial support to community-driven tourism enterprises.
Infrastructure and Conservation Investments
To enhance accessibility and conservation efforts, the ministry has undertaken several projects, including the construction of Kiborgoch and Kabariony water pans to support both wildlife and local communities.
Additionally, 60 kilometres of roads have been rehabilitated in Ruko Community Conservancy, facilitating ease of movement for tourists and conservationists alike.
The government is also rolling out eco-tourism initiatives aimed at creating employment opportunities while ensuring sustainable conservation practices.
Plans are underway to introduce payment for ecosystem services, ensuring that communities living alongside wildlife benefit directly from conservation efforts.
Recognizing the crucial role of local communities in conservation, the ministry is supporting community-led tourism models that integrate cultural heritage with eco-tourism activities.
Principal Secretary for Wildlife Silvia Museiya commended residents for preserving their indigenous knowledge, which she noted plays a vital role in conservation.
Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi called on both local and international tourists to visit the county, dispelling concerns over security and emphasizing that government efforts have restored stability.
He pointed out the county’s vast tourism opportunities, including Lake Bogoria, Tugen Hills, and the expansive conservancies that support rare wildlife species such as the Rothschild’s giraffe and Patas monkey.
During the event, 16 conservancies in Baringo County launched a joint status report and received a financial boost of Ksh 31 million from the Kenya Wildlife Service to strengthen their conservation efforts.
KWS Director General Prof. Erastus Kanga noted that wildlife tourism is a key revenue earner and stressed the need for further investment to modernise infrastructure and promote conservation-based enterprises.
Miano reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that wildlife tourism becomes a sustainable economic driver in Baringo.
She encouraged private sector investment in eco-tourism projects, stating that a well-developed tourism sector would not only protect wildlife but also provide lasting economic benefits to local communities.
The World Wildlife Day celebrations in Baringo underscored the government’s long-term vision of integrating conservation with economic development, positioning
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