KWS turns to technology to boost wildlife conservation efforts

Kenya Wildlife Services veterinarians and rangers rush to aid a sedated female black Rhinoceros that has been selected for translocation. [AFP]

Technology is playing an increasingly central role in wildlife conservation as the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) adopts innovative tools to strengthen protection efforts and promote sustainable coexistence between people and wildlife.

Speaking during the ongoing Science, Technology, Research and Innovation (STRI) Society Week 2026 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi, KWS officials showcased how modern innovations are transforming conservation work across the country.

The five-day exhibition, running from May 18 to 22 under the theme “Igniting Innovation: Bridging Science and Society for Sustainable Development,” has brought together institutions presenting scientific and technological solutions to societal challenges.

At the event, KWS demonstrated several technologies being used to monitor wildlife in real time, improve response to threats, and reduce human-wildlife conflict.

Among the key innovations on display were EarthRanger, LoRa technology, drone surveillance systems and wildlife tracking collars, all aimed at enhancing monitoring, research and protection of wildlife populations.

KWS officials said the adoption of these tools has significantly improved response times, strengthened field operations and enhanced data-driven conservation decision-making.