RIFT VALLEY, Kenya: In Kenya’s Rift Valley, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) is undertaking a delicate and ambitious operation to move endangered Rothschild’s giraffes to a new conservancy.
This operation, unfolding at a farm in Sergoit, involves tranquilizing, roping, and blindfolding the giraffes to ensure their safe transportation to the Ruko Conservancy in Baringo County, approximately 140 kilometers (90 miles) away. The giraffes will be kept in Sergoit for about ten days to acclimate before the final relocation.
Aiming for Dual Goals: Conservation and Peace
The relocation of the Rothschild’s giraffes, a distinct subspecies, represents more than just a conservation effort. It is a strategic move aimed at addressing historical communal tensions in Baringo County, a region plagued by banditry and ethnic clashes, particularly between the rival Pokot and Ilchamus communities. This initiative began in the mid-2000s when local elders, seeking to resolve conflicts and promote peace, initiated the idea of resettling the giraffes to the Ruko Conservancy.
The rationale behind this project is twofold: to reintroduce an endangered species to a region where it had previously vanished and to foster peace between the warring communities. By attracting tourism and creating employment opportunities, the project aims to provide economic incentives that could reduce conflicts. The arrival of the giraffes is seen as a symbol of reconciliation and a catalyst for community unity.
Community Impact and Ongoing Challenges
The positive impact of the giraffes on local communities is evident. Rebby Sebei, a reserve manager, reflects on the transformation brought by the project, noting a significant shift from violent clashes to collaborative efforts. As the giraffes made their way to the Ruko Conservancy, the Pokot and Ilchamus communities celebrated their arrival with songs and dances, marking a new chapter of cooperation and mutual respect.
The resettlement has indeed improved relations, as observed by community members like Douglas Longomo and James Parkitore, who appreciate the newfound sense of unity and job opportunities. However, while tourism has surged and some disputes have been resolved, Sebei cautions that challenges remain, and more efforts are needed to solidify peace.
Overall, the giraffe relocation initiative in Kenya represents a successful blend of wildlife conservation and community development, demonstrating how environmental projects can serve broader social goals. The ongoing work to maintain peace and enhance economic benefits continues, as the giraffes symbolize hope and a renewed sense of harmony in the Rift Valley.
