Kenya joined the global community in marking World Rhino Day on Monday, with Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano calling for renewed efforts to protect rhinos from poaching and habitat loss.
Miano lauded Kenya’s remarkable progress in conservation, noting that the country’s rhino population has risen steadily over the decades.
“Today we celebrate incredible progress! Kenya’s rhino population has grown from 381 in 1987 to over 1,600 today — proof that conservation works,” she said.
The Cabinet Secretary underscored the importance of collaboration among government agencies, conservationists, communities, and international partners to ensure the long-term survival of rhinos.
“Let’s continue to explore more and champion for the protection of these wonderful species for our future generations,” she added.
Principal Secretary at the State Department for Wildlife, Silvia Museiya, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the role of communities in conservation success.
“By empowering communities to safeguard these iconic creatures, we preserve our national heritage, strengthen biodiversity, and ensure that future generations inherit a thriving and resilient ecosystem,” said Museiya.
This year’s celebrations come at a time when Kenya is being globally recognized for its conservation gains. According to the World Wide Fund for Nature Kenya (WWF Kenya), the black rhino population has rebounded impressively.
“From fewer than 400 in 1989 to nearly 1,000 today, Kenya’s black rhino population has nearly doubled,” WWF Kenya noted in a statement.
The Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) also praised these efforts, describing rhinos as a symbol of the country’s successful conservation initiatives.
“Celebrating Kenya’s conservation wins. Our rhinos are living proof that protection works,” KTB said in a message.
However, challenges remain on a global scale. The northern white rhino is functionally extinct, highlighting the urgency of continued action. Kenya’s leaders are urging collective responsibility to ensure that rhinos — a cornerstone of the country’s natural heritage continue to thrive.
Kenya joined the global community in marking World Rhino Day on Monday, with Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano calling for renewed efforts to protect rhinos from poaching and habitat loss.
Miano lauded Kenya’s remarkable progress in conservation, noting that the country’s rhino population has risen steadily over the decades.
