Kenya to benefit from multi-billion shilling global wildlife fund

Kenya will benefit from the Sh9 billion Global Wildlife Programme to fight poaching and trophy trafficking.

The fund, launched by the World Bank and approved by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), is meant to boost the ability and capacity of countries to combat poaching and illegal wildlife trade.

Speaking during the International Conference on Engaging Local Communities in Wildlife Conservation in Nairobi on Thursday, Diariétou Gaye, World Bank’s Country Director for Kenya, said poaching and illegal wildlife trade pose serious development, environmental and security challenges globally

“This conference is a direct response to the rampant wildlife poaching and trafficking that are destroying countries’ natural capital, eroding the foundation of important economic sectors such as nature-based tourism, robbing poor people of their livelihood and fueling criminal activities and conflict,” said Gaye.

According to a World Bank report, crime affecting natural resources and the environment inflicts damage on developing countries worth more than US$70 billion (Sh7.05 trillion) a year.

First Lady Margaret Kenyatta said there is growing realisation that animals are worth more to human beings alive than dead globally. “The momentum must continue and conservation efforts must gain steam. I thank the World Bank and UNEP for convening this critical conference,” Ms Kenyatta said.