ISIOLO, Kenya – Through the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, the Kenyan government recently launched Phase Two of the 2024-2025 National Wildlife Census.
The exercise was launched at the Shaba National Reserve in Isiolo County.
Spanning 65,000 square kilometres, the Laikipia-Isiolo-Samburu-Meru-Marsabit landscape is Kenya’s largest ecosystem.
At the launch, Rebecca Miano—Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife—said it is the right of every Kenyan to know their wildlife numbers and understand what this data means for communities, conservation efforts, and economic futures.
“By gathering precise, scientific data, we can craft better policies, protect our natural heritage, and ensure that Kenya remains a top global destination for generations to come,” said CS Miano, who emphasised the importance of partnerships in protecting biodiversity and creating sustainable livelihoods for communities.
Why the National Wildlife Census exercise is important
By collecting accurate data on population trends and habitat health, CS Miano observed that Kenya could identify threats and craft targeted, community-focused conservation strategies to protect its wildlife and ecosystems for future generations.
“I’m pleased to share that 98% of Phase 1 of the National Wildlife Census recommendations have been implemented.
Despite the 2022 drought, preliminary results show stable wildlife populations, a testament to our shared conservation efforts. As we launch Phase II, I sincerely thank our partners and call on all stakeholders to support this vital exercise,’ explained CS Miano.
This census, the CS reiterated that it marks a crucial step in Kenya’s conservation journey, prioritising data-driven decisions and reaffirming Kenya’s dedication to protecting the unique species and habitats that make the country a global treasure.
How WWF-Kenya is supporting the National Wildlife Census
WWF-Kenya is supporting the wildlife count by contributing 2,000 litres of aviation fuel to facilitate aerial surveys over the next 10 days.
The year-long census establishes a national wildlife dataset using globally recognised methods such as aerial counts, camera trapping, and spoor analysis.
Other partners, such as the Lewa Conservancy, Loisaba Conservancy, and the Giraffe Conservation Foundation, back the initiative.
Meanwhile, Y News has discovered what happens behind the National Wildlife Census exercise.
First, there’s a team of dedicated individuals working tirelessly behind the scenes, ensuring that every flight is flawless and every observation is precise.
While the public sees the results—the stunning aerial surveys and the vital data collected—the real work begins long before the planes take off.
Fueling of the aircraft is done with precision, ensuring that each aircraft is ready for the demanding hours ahead.
What is the role of the GIS team during the wildlife count exercise
Y News has further established that the GIS team plans flight paths and loads them into the pilots’ GPS while they prepare for takeoff, ensuring constant communication with aerial and ground crews.
Rear and Front-Seat Observers (RSO & FSO) manage GPS trackers and observe and record vital information through dictaphones, EarthRanger-installed phones, and digital cameras.
The operations team supports field crews with logistics and supplies, ensuring smooth coordination.
Once the data is collected, it is transcribed by data analysts, who meticulously input it into systems for further analysis.
It is this collective effort—from survey coordinators, aircraft mechanics, and GIS specialists to pilots, observers, technicians, and analysts—that ensures the success of the National Wildlife Census, enabling precise wildlife monitoring and supporting our ongoing conservation initiatives.
Meanwhile, the data collected will inform wildlife conservation efforts and policies across Kenya and Africa.
