KWS Moves Elephants from Marsabit to Meru to Curb Human-Wildlife Conflict

KWS Moves Elephants from Marsabit to Meru to Curb Human-Wildlife Conflict
Kenya Wildlife Service

The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has successfully relocated two adult bull elephants from the Karare area in Marsabit Central Sub-County to Meru National Park, following growing concerns over human-wildlife conflict.

The elephants had strayed into the community, sparking tensions among residents due to increasing encounters and the risk of damage to crops and property.

The operation, led by the KWS Northern Mobile Veterinary Unit in coordination with the Marsabit KWS team, involved safely immobilising the two elephants.

One of the bulls was fitted with a tracking collar to facilitate future monitoring and ensure their adaptation in the new environment. The translocation was completed without incident.

KWS acknowledged the critical role played by the local community and partners, including the Mara Elephant Project, Ewaso Lions, the Grevy’s Zebra Trust, and Save the Elephants.

Their support ensured the successful execution of the exercise and demonstrated the importance of collective action in conservation efforts.

The relocated elephants are now settled in Meru National Park, a more suitable and expansive habitat away from human settlements. The move not only offers them a safer and more natural environment to thrive but also restores peace to the communities affected by their presence.

KWS reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence between humans and wildlife, emphasising that collaborative efforts remain crucial in addressing emerging conservation challenges.