NAIROBI, Kenya — The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has recognised a young creative from Kibera, Nairobi, for her contribution to conservation advocacy through the arts.
Hope Wambui received the recognition after delivering a powerful poem on tourism and wildlife conservation during the Jamhuri Thematic Week on Tourism held in December.
The event took place alongside the Jiachilie in Kenya Parks festivities and marked a week-long national celebration of tourism, culture, and conservation.
Hope performed her poem on the opening day of the celebrations. Her presentation drew praise from organisers and attendees for its strong message on the importance of protecting Kenya’s natural heritage.
In recognition of her contribution, the Head of Presidential Special Projects and Creative Economy Coordination presented her with an award during the event.
KWS Director General later extended a fully sponsored educational and conservation visit to Tsavo East National Park for Hope and her family.
KWS said the visit aims to expose young creatives to Kenya’s protected areas and deepen their understanding of conservation beyond the classroom.
The Service described the gesture as part of its broader commitment to conservation education and youth engagement.
“KWS continues to nurture future leaders in conservation by empowering young voices,” the agency said in a statement.
Officials said creative expression plays a critical role in shaping public attitudes toward wildlife protection and sustainable tourism.
They noted that engaging youth from informal settlements and underserved communities helps broaden access to conservation opportunities.
The Jamhuri Thematic Week on Tourism brought together government agencies, creatives, conservationists, and members of the public. It highlighted the link between tourism, culture, and environmental sustainability.
KWS said Hope’s poem captured these themes and demonstrated how young people can influence national conversations through art. The Tsavo East visit will include guided game drives, conservation learning sessions and interactions with wildlife officers.
KWS said the experience is designed to inspire curiosity, responsibility and long-term interest in conservation careers.
The Service has increasingly used arts, culture and storytelling to connect conservation with communities.
It has partnered with schools, creatives and community groups to promote environmental awareness through non-traditional platforms.
KWS said youth engagement remains central to Kenya’s conservation future, especially as the country pushes to expand domestic tourism and protect biodiversity.
“By investing in young people, we invest in the future of conservation,” the Service said.
Hope’s recognition comes at a time when Kenya is promoting inclusive participation in tourism and conservation activities.
KWS said it will continue to support initiatives that amplify youth voices and encourage responsible stewardship of natural resources.
The agency urged more young people to use creativity, innovation and leadership to champion conservation across the country.
