West Pokot’s to harness opportunities in tapping tourism

West Pokot County has vast untapped potential to develop conservancies that could generate sustainable revenue through tourism, the State Department for Wildlife has said.

National Reserve, Conservation secretary John Chumo said well-managed conservancies could create jobs, support communities, promote conservation and contribute significantly to the country’s economy.

“By establishing and managing conservancies, the county can attract eco-tourists to experience its unique wildlife, landscapes and cultural heritage,” he said.

Chumo said strategic investment, community participation and strong marketing could turn West Pokot into a leading eco-tourism hub.

He spoke during the World Elephant Day celebrations at Sarmach Primary School in Nasolot.

Chumo said World Elephant Day, marked globally since 2012, seeks to raise awareness on threats to African and Asian elephants, which the International Union for Conservation of Nature lists as “vulnerable” and “endangered".

Habitat destruction, poaching and climate change have caused population declines despite their ecological and cultural importance.

Chumo called for the expansion of conservancies, improved wildlife corridors and stronger community engagement to reduce human-wildlife conflict.

He warned that activities such as illegal gold mining are threatening critical migration routes, including the corridor linking Nasolot to Rimoi and Turkana.

“Protecting these corridors is vital for elephant migration and for preventing conflict with humans,” Chumo said.

Kenya’s elephant population has grown from 16,000 in 1989 to 36,000 in 2021, with a target of 40,000, but habitat loss remains a serious challenge.

Chumo urged residents to end banditry and illegal activities that undermine tourism and called for tree planting and anti-deforestation measures to boost the sector.

West Pokot deputy county commissioner Wycliffe Munanda described Nasolot as a vital elephant habitat.

He condemned illegal gold mining, warning of the dangers it posed to wildlife and people and called for mined pits to be refilled to prevent accidents.

West Pokot managing director for Tourism and Wildlife, William Patang’ole, urged peaceful coexistence between residents and wildlife, stressing that tourism offers greater long-term benefits than extractive activities such as gold mining.

The county plans to construct a new gate at Nasolot National Reserve to improve access. The reserve hosts diverse species, including elephants, leopards, kudus, impalas, gazelles, hyenas, baboons and several endangered animals.

Patang’ole encouraged visitors to explore West Pokot’s rich flora, fauna, striking scenery and cultural experiences. “Tourism and agriculture can be the backbone of our economy if we protect our environment,” he said.