President Ruto to Kenya Wildlife Service Rangers: You’re guardians of our natural wealth! President William Ruto lauded the newly graduated Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Rangers as protectors of Kenya’s invaluable natural heritage during their passing-out parade at Manyani.
The President emphasized the critical role the rangers play in safeguarding the country’s wildlife and inspiring future generations through their service.
Stewards of National Heritage
Addressing the 1,274 rangers, President Ruto described them as custodians of Kenya’s ecological wealth and its rich national heritage. He urged them to carry out their responsibilities with dedication, courage, and patriotism.
Kenya Wildlife Service Rangers
“Always remember that you are the guardians of Kenya’s natural wealth, custodians of our national heritage, and stewards of our shared responsibility to future generations. I urge you to carry out your duties with dedication, courage, and patriotism,” Ruto said.
Encouraging Transformative Leadership
The President encouraged the rangers to adopt a bold and transformative approach in their careers, setting an example for generations to come. He emphasized the importance of their legacy, urging them to engage in meaningful acts that would secure their place in history.
“As you build your careers marked by heroic achievements, strive to perform bold, imaginative, and transformative deeds that will inspire many in this generation and the generations to come,” he stated.
Ruto reminded the rangers that their responsibility extends beyond the present, as they are entrusted with preserving Kenya’s natural and national legacy for future generations.
“Let wisdom guide you that this earth and nation are not ours alone. They are a cherished legacy passed down from generations past and entrusted to us to safeguard for those yet to come. In our time, let us commit to acts that will secure an honourable place in the annals of history,” he added.
Partnerships for Conservation
President Ruto called on all stakeholders, including government, communities, and conservation partners, to unite in ensuring Kenya continues to excel globally in wildlife conservation. He highlighted the need for dynamic partnerships to create a balance where people, wildlife, and development coexist harmoniously.
“All of us—government, communities, and partners—have a duty to work in dynamic and effective partnerships to ensure Kenya remains a global beacon of excellence in conservation, where people and wildlife flourish side by side, and development benefits all of us,” he emphasized.
Milestones in Anti-Poaching Efforts
Kenya’s progress in combating poaching and conserving wildlife was also a key highlight of the President’s speech. He acknowledged the success of anti-poaching efforts, which have significantly reduced threats to species once on the brink of extinction.
Ruto proudly cited Kenya’s remarkable achievement in recording zero rhino poaching cases in 2020, a milestone that reflects the collective determination and hard work of the KWS and other stakeholders.
“Today, Kenya proudly boasts Africa’s third-largest rhino population, with 2,004 rhinos, and the fourth-largest elephant population, with 37,000 elephants. These figures are not just statistics—they are a testament to hope, hard work, and collective action in safeguarding our natural heritage,” the President said.
Gratitude for KWS
President Ruto expressed his gratitude to the Kenya Wildlife Service for its relentless efforts in protecting wildlife and ensuring the country’s conservation standards remain world-class. He commended the rangers for their sacrifices and dedication, which have contributed to Kenya’s reputation as a conservation leader.
“KWS deserves our collective appreciation for fighting tirelessly for our wildlife heritage,” he said.
Conclusion
President Ruto’s address underscored the vital role of the KWS Rangers in protecting Kenya’s rich natural resources and maintaining the country’s status as a global conservation leader. Through their courage and commitment, these rangers not only safeguard wildlife but also inspire future generations to value and preserve Kenya’s heritage.
As Kenya continues to make strides in conservation, the President’s call for unity among stakeholders highlights the collective responsibility required to secure a sustainable future for the nation’s people and wildlife alike.
