Kenya’s elephant population is estimated at 36,280 as per the 2021 National Wildlife Census, Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Director General Erustus Kanga has announced.
The number is a growth from 16,000 recorded in 1989.
Speaking during the World Elephant Day celebrations on Monday, August 12, 2024, Kanga said there have been a rise in elephant mortalities due to human-elephant conflict, driven by increased intolerance stemming from negative interactions.
“As we observe World Elephant Day, we reflect on the majestic creatures that symbolize our nation’s heritage. Elephants are integral to our ecosystems, yet their survival increasingly hinges on our ability to foster harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife. In recent times, we have witnessed a rise in elephant mortalities due to human-elephant conflict, driven by increased intolerance stemming from negative interactions,” Kanga said.
“This year’s theme, “Promoting Harmonious Coexistence Between Elephants and P****e in Well-Managed Landscapes,” echoes our commitment to finding sustainable solutions that benefit both elephants and the communities they share the land with. This theme aligns with the broader international focus and supports the goals outlined in our National Elephant Action Plan.”
Kanga says the elephant population growth in Kenya has been hampered by ongoing challenges, including habitat loss, climate change, and poaching.
“Kenya’s elephant population has seen a remarkable recovery, growing from 16,000 individuals in 1989 to over 36,280 as per the 2021 National Wildlife Census. However, this progress slowed down by ongoing challenges, including habitat loss, climate change, and poaching. The new KWS Strategic Plan has set comprehensive roadmap that will address these threats by focusing on habitat restoration, conflict mitigation, and strengthening the value of elephants to local communities,” Kanga added.
Elephant-human conflict
To end the human-elephant conflict, Kanga has urged conservation areas to engage in simple, low-cost activities in collaboration with stakeholders and local communities.
“To mark this day, we encourage all conservation areas to engage in simple, low-cost activities in collaboration with stakeholders and local communities. These initiatives will provide a platform to address the root causes of human-elephant conflict and explore practical solutions that can enhance coexistence. Identifying key sites to showcase innovative methods currently being employed such as putting up barriers to reduce conflicts will be crucial in demonstrating our commitment to this cause.” he added.
“As we work together to protect these magnificent creatures, let us all remember that the future of elephants depends on our collective efforts to promote peaceful coexistence. I urge everyone to join hands in ensuring that our actions today pave the way for a future where both elephants and p****e thrive in harmony.”