KWS-KFS merger opposed, says CS

By KIPCHUMBA KEMEI

Kenya: Cabinet Secretary Environment, Water and Natural Resources Prof Judi Wakhungu has said there is strong opposition to the intended merger of the Kenya Forest Service and the Kenya Wildlife Service by a group of conservationists and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) who have been funding the latter.

Wakhungu said yesterday the intended merger was good because it would, among other things, strengthen their management and assist in conservation of natural resources and wildlife, which are related.

She added that those opposed to the development were not informed, adding that a task force has been appointed to iron out issues that stand in the way of the merger.

“There is a strong opposition which is not good for conservation of both wildlife, environment and natural resources which are related. The aim of the merger is to make them discharge their duties effectively under one management,” she said.

Speaking after she presented diplomas and certificates to 229 forest officers at a graduation ceremony at Kenya Forestry College in Londiani, Kericho County, Prof Wakhungu asked those opposed to the merger to submit their proposals to the task force and pledged that their concerns would be addressed.

“The groups that are not in agreement with the intended plans to merge the two entities should present their views which will be addressed,” added Wakhungu.

Several NGOs, wildlife and conservation groups that fund some activities at the KWS are opposed to the merger and have threatened to withdraw funding from the body that is grappling with runaway poaching inside and outside national parks and game reserves.