West pokot: West Pokot County is poised to tap into its tourism potential by developing conservancies that promise sustainable revenue generation and community benefits. During World Elephant Day celebrations at Sarmach Primary School in Nasolot National Reserve, Dr. John Chumo, Conservation Secretary at the State Department for Wildlife, emphasized the county's ability to attract eco-tourists through its unique wildlife, landscapes, and cultural heritage.
According to Kenya News Agency, Dr. Chumo highlighted that strategic investment, community involvement, and robust marketing could transform West Pokot into a premier eco-tourism destination. He noted the annual celebration of World Elephant Day since August 12, 2012, aims to raise awareness about the threats facing African and Asian elephants, classified as "Vulnerable" and "Endangered" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
Dr. Chumo underscored the challenges elephants face, such as habitat destruction, poaching, and climate change. He advocated for establishing more conservancies to boost tourism, improve local livelihoods, and contribute to the nation's economic agenda. Kenya's tourism sector attracted 2.4 million visitors last year, many of whom were drawn by the country's wildlife.
He urged collaboration between communities and authorities to conserve wildlife, prevent habitat destruction, and combat poaching. Furthermore, Dr. Chumo called for increased tree planting and reduction of deforestation to enhance tourism at the Nasolot National Reserve and cautioned against illegal activities that create unsafe environments for tourists.
The Deputy County Commissioner of West Pokot Sub-County, Wycliffe Munanda, expressed gratitude for the State Department of Wildlife's efforts in organizing the World Elephant Day celebration, recognizing Nasolot National Reserve's crucial role as an elephant habitat. He raised concerns about illegal gold mining in the region, which poses dangers to elephants, and urged mining authorities to address these issues.
William Patang'ole, Managing Director for Tourism and Wildlife in West Pokot County, thanked the national government for holding the Elephant Day celebrations in the area. He stressed the importance of peaceful coexistence between residents and wildlife and noted the significant economic potential of tourism and agriculture over gold mining.
Patang'ole also mentioned plans to improve infrastructure, including constructing a gate at Nasolot National Reserve. He described Nasolot as a sanctuary for diverse wildlife and urged visitors to consider West Pokot for its rich wildlife and ecotourism opportunities. He emphasized the region's stunning landscape, diverse flora and fauna, and unique cultural experiences as major attractions for tourists.