Kisumu County has joined the rest of the world in marking World Rangers Day, honouring the critical and often dangerous work done by rangers to protect Kenya’s natural heritage.
Speaking at KWS offices in Kisumu during the ceremony, Kisumu County Commissioner Benson Leparmorijo paid tribute to all our rangers, describing them as the quiet heroes on the frontlines of conservation, who risk their lives daily to protect the country’s flora and fauna.
“Rangers are not just enforcers of conservation rules. They are active agents of change, leaders in transformative conservation efforts. They combine traditional knowledge with modern technology to protect our planet, and in doing so, they create a lasting positive change for future generations,” he said.
He noted that rangers play a key role in helping Kenya meet global environmental targets, including the ambitious “30 by 30” goal, a worldwide initiative to conserve 30 per cent of the planet’s land and ocean by 2030.
Leparmorijo praised the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) for the strides it has made, particularly in strengthening anti-poaching units and improving ranger support systems.
“We recognise the wonderful job our officers do, putting their lives on the frontline to protect our forests, our wildlife, and our ecosystems. If they don’t protect our natural world, who will?” he posed.
Speaking during the same occasion, the KWS Senior Assistant Director in charge of Kisumu and Siaya counties, Joseph Orara, commended rangers for their tireless efforts in conserving biodiversity and ensuring peaceful coexistence between humans and wildlife.
“These officers are the ones handling human-wildlife conflicts, especially along Lake Victoria. We used to see high numbers of hippo, crocodile, and snake attacks in these areas, but today, that has significantly reduced thanks to their efforts,” he said.
Orara stressed that rangers do not only preserve animal life but are also instrumental in protecting the safety and livelihoods of communities living near conservancies.
“Their work has enabled us to build trust with local communities and foster a culture of conservation that benefits both people and nature,” he added.
On his part, Dr. Richard Lesiyampe, the CEO of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH), highlighted the direct link between the work of rangers and the strength of Kenya’s tourism economy.
“Without you, we have no wildlife. Without the animals, we have no parks. Without the parks, there are no tourists. That means our tourism sector would collapse,” he said.
Lesiyampe acknowledged the harsh conditions under which rangers operate, yet they continue to play a vital role in sustaining the economy.
“You are dealing with animals that don’t talk, but somehow, you manage to protect and conserve them not just for today, but for the benefit of future generations,” he said.
The event brought together rangers, conservation stakeholders, government officials, and local residents.
The occasion ended with a symbolic tree planting exercise and a moment of silence to honour rangers who have died in the line of duty.
By Chris Mahandara
