The Bonjoke Forest, situated in Nandi County, is now an endangered wild animal sanctuary, announced Environment CEC Philemon Bureti said.
Dr. Bureti emphasized that Bonjoke Forest, located in the South Nandi Sub-County, will serve as a refuge for a variety of endangered species, including lions, elephants, and Sitatunga.
He went on to unveil plans for a wildlife sanctuary that, upon completion, will serve as a center of attraction for tourists, thereby contributing significantly to the county’s economic income.
Speaking at the launch event of the “Elephant Neighbour Centre,” an organization dedicated to the protection of endangered elephants and other wildlife in East and Central African nations, Dr. Bureti reiterated the County Government of Nandi’s commitment to collaborate closely with the center. Their joint effort will focus on safeguarding the Sitatunga, a prominent local wild species, along with other vulnerable animals.
Jim Justus Nyamu, the Executive Director of the Elephant Neighbour Centre, assured his organization’s cooperation with the various counties to ensure the welfare of wildlife within their regions, including the preservation of their habitats.
Nyamu expressed gratitude towards the Kenya Forest Service and Kenya Wild Service in Nandi County for their efforts in safeguarding the local wildlife from human-induced threats.
While urging residents of Nandi not to harm the wildlife in their vicinity, Nyamu encouraged them to engage with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and Kenya Forest Service (KFS) to learn about coexisting harmoniously with the animal inhabitants.
Nyamu announced that the “Elephant Neighbour Centre” team plans to embark on a tour of Mt. Elgon Forest, an area known to house elephants. Subsequently, the team will venture into neighboring Uganda and other Central African countries to seek support for the protection of wildlife in the broader region.
Saidi Shabaan, the Deputy County Commissioner of Nandi Central, appealed to local residents to refrain from harming wild animals and instead collaborate with KWS and KFS to ensure the animals’ safety.
Kenneth Muskiton, the Nandi County Ecosystem Conservator, highlighted the importance of preserving indigenous trees, which serve as crucial habitats for the local wildlife. He urged against cutting down these trees and advocated for planting and harvesting exotic trees instead.
Waden Baret Wechuli from KWS Nandi County expressed gratitude to the founders of the “Elephant Neighbour Centre” for their dedication to wildlife preservation. He pledged KWS’s unwavering support in safeguarding the remaining wildlife within Nandi County.
