China donates anti-poaching equipment to four community conservancies

Kenya: The Chinese Government has donated anti-poaching equipment to four conservancies through the East African Wildlife Society (EAWLS) and the Mara Conservation Fund (MCF).

The equipment worth over Sh900, 000 will enhance security cover for wildlife through targeted patrols by Community Conservancies in the Northern Rangelands and North Coast of the Country.

The equipment which include tents, bag packs, binoculars, GPS receivers among others will benefit Ndera Community Conservancy in Coast region and Nasuulu, Nakuprat-gotu and Leparwa Community Conservancies in Isiolo.

Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Director William Kiprono lauded the assistance from the Chinese government saying it will boost the momentum of Kenya’s on-going war on poaching and trophy trafficking.

"We highly appreciate the assistance so far accorded by the Chinese Government towards strengthening our efforts to combat the scourge that threatens to wipe out our national heritage," said Kiprono.

Kiprono said the Government has stepped up efforts to end wildlife poaching which includes recruitment of 566 new rangers in April 2014. Another 800 rangers will be recruited by end of October 2014 as well as putting in place policies, mechanisms and structures to deal with the menace of poaching and the illegal trade in wildlife and wildlife products.