More than 400 wildlife rangers from the Mountain Conservation Area gathered in Nanyuki, Laikipia County, to mark World Rangers Day with renewed calls for greater recognition, improved welfare and enhanced support for men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting Kenya’s wildlife and natural resources.
The annual event began with a procession through the streets of Nanyuki before the rangers assembled at the Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK) grounds, where they demonstrated anti-poaching techniques, emergency rescue drills and other skills used in combating wildlife crime and protecting the environment.
This year’s celebrations were held under the theme “Rangers: Guardians of a Changing Planet,” highlighting the critical role rangers play in safeguarding biodiversity amid emerging environmental and conservation challenges.
Senior Assistant Director in the Mountain Conservation Area Emmanuel Koech said World Rangers Day provides an opportunity to recognize the dedication and sacrifices made by rangers in conserving forests, wildlife and other natural resources for present and future generations.
“We celebrate World Rangers Day by honouring the men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting our wildlife, forests and natural resources. Their commitment and sacrifices continue to conserve nature for present and future generations,” said Koech.
He noted that rangers often operate under difficult conditions, facing injuries, loss of life and prolonged separation from their families while carrying out their duties.
Koech paid tribute to officers who have died in the line of duty, describing them as heroes whose sacrifice has contributed significantly to the protection of Kenya’s natural heritage.
“We remember those who have lost their lives while serving the nation and thank all rangers for their courage, dedication and sacrifice. Their work demands immense commitment, and many are frequently recalled from leave, limiting the time they spend with their families,” he said.
One of the participating rangers, Edward Kosgei, said conservation efforts had made significant progress in curbing illegal trade in wildlife trophies, but warned that poaching for bush meat had emerged as a growing threat.
He said criminals were increasingly targeting wildlife for meat rather than trophies, calling for intensified surveillance and stronger collaboration among conservation agencies.
“The major challenge we are currently facing is bush meat poaching. We have made tremendous progress in protecting rhinos, elephants and other wildlife from trophy poaching, but the trend is shifting and requires enhanced surveillance and enforcement,” said Kosgei.
Laikipia County Deputy Commissioner Michael Orina described the county as one of Kenya’s leading conservation areas, hosting more than 25 private and community conservancies as well as one of the country’s largest populations of wildlife rangers.
He noted that many rangers serving in the county had suffered injuries or lost their lives while protecting endangered wildlife species and preserving critical ecosystems.
“Laikipia is among the country’s leading conservation counties with numerous conservancies that play a vital role in wildlife protection. We appreciate all stakeholders who continue supporting conservation initiatives and the welfare of rangers,” said Orina.
Lewa Conservancy Head of the Anti-Poaching Unit Edward Nderitu called on the Government and conservation partners to prioritize the welfare of rangers through improved working conditions, better equipment and adequate support.
He observed that while investment in modern anti-poaching equipment was important, it should be complemented by enhanced training, welfare programmes and sufficient resources to enable rangers to perform their duties effectively and safely.
By Muturi Mwangi
