Archive - U.S. Agency for International Development

Environment

Speeches Shim

On April 30, 2016, Kenya burned 105 tons of elephant ivory and rhino horns, the largest such burn to date. USAID is working closely with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) to respond to these threats and scale up Kenya’s efforts to combat wildlife crime.

Eric Onyiego / USAID Kenya and East Africa

OVERVIEW

Kenya is globally recognized for its rich biodiversity and iconic landscapes. Kenya’s economy and its citizen's livelihoods depend on their natural resources and nature-based tourism. Climate variability has led to significant economic losses and food insecurity. Other factors such as wildlife crime, urban expansion, and rapid population growth are threatening conservation efforts.

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PROGRAM AREAS

Counter Wildlife Trafficking

We work with local and international partners, including the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), U.S. Department of Interior, and WildlifeDirect, to counter wildlife trafficking. Our programs enhance wildlife management, raise awareness on wildlife conservation, and help prosecute wildlife crimes. We also provide Kenyan scientists research grants to explore innovative ways to protect animals.

Biodiversity Conservation

USAID and KWS pioneered the community conservancy model in Kenya. Communities play a key role in both the protection and conservation of wildlife. Local communities are best positioned to support on-the-ground anti-poaching efforts. This approach protects wildlife, expands economic opportunities, and enhances the ability of people and land to withstand climate variability and shocks. An innovative partnership with the Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT) benefits 630,000 people in 39 community conservancies. This partnership is creating space for 65% of wildlife living outside Kenya’s parks and reserves. Our work with NRT is also developing community resilience strategies.

Clean Energy and Climate Change Adaptation

Transitioning to a low emissions economy is a key component of Kenya’s Vision 2030. We are working with the Government of Kenya to implement the National Climate Change Action Plan. Kenya is a flagship country for the U.S. Government’s Enhancing Capacity for Low Emissions Development Strategies (EC-LEDS). This program accelerates economic growth while slowing greenhouse gas emissions.