KWS officers are "traumatised and shocked" by the deaths of nine black rhinos that were moved from Nairobi National Park, Tourism CS Najib Balala has said.
The government
launched an independent investigation into the deaths the rhinos at Tsavo National Park.
"This one
is shocking... the officers are traumatised. I was shocked ... we can't believe the animals have died without
explanation," the minister said.
He said
that two females, from the group of 11 that KWS moved to the new park, are in good health.
Also read:
A preliminary report indicated that the rhinos died
after taking highly saline water on arrival in the new environment.
Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV on Wednesday, Balala said he cannot take responsibility of
the deaths but noted that officers found culpable will pay.
"Is it fair for Balala to take responsibility for an institution that has not done its job? If they have failed why should I take responsibility?" he asked the host.
"It is that institution that should take responsibility. It's like you and others are after my blood. Its unfortunate.
For us ... for me ... it is shocking. I'm really sad and disappointed."
The Cabinet Secretary further noted that he will not protect anyone who might have have caused the deaths.
"They will take responsibility and action will be taken if it is found that they failed, be it a vet, transportation officers, feed organisers ... the people will be punished," he said.
Balala said a technical organisation has autonomy in the translocation of the animals.
"I run a ministry purely on policies. I do not execute. I do not even approve. The person who has made a mistake should be the one to take responsibility," he reiterated.
Noting that the probe report will be out next week, Balala said Kenya Wildlife Service will parade the horns on Thursday.
"I saw two decomposed carcasses yesterday and then I flew to Voi where I was shown all 18 horns. I personally witnessed the drilling of transmitters in the horns and chips," he said.
"KWS will parade of the
carcasses
and the horns, verify and link each horn to the rhinos."
The CS also pointed out that many people surround the animals during moves.
"Can we have less people next to the animal ... media was all over the cage ... everyone wants the picture, even KWS themselves. That causes the animals anxiety.
The worst thing an animal can go through is trauma."
The death of the animals is another blow for
Kenya, where wildlife tourism is a major attraction, as the world's last male northern white rhino died in March. Only two females are alive.
Ol Pejeta Conservancy asked the world to ensure that other rhino species and all wildlife thrive.
The conservancy made the call following the death of Sudan, the last male northern white rhino.
Sudan was no ordinary rhino as he was was some kind of a 'celeb' who stole the hearts of many who came to Kenya.
He was the last male northern white rhino and last hope for the breed in the world.
Also read: