Kenya Launches Historic Elephant Translocation to Aberdare National Park

The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife today launched the translocation of 50 elephants from Mwea National Reserve to Aberdare National Park. The ambitious project, led by Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), seeks to protect both elephant populations and local communities affected by encroachment.

Speaking at the launch event, Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife Hon. Rebecca Miano underscored the importance of the translocation, emphasizing that growing human populations have increasingly encroached upon natural elephant habitats, causing conflicts that threaten both wildlife and livelihoods.

“This translocation is a critical conservation solution to safeguard elephant populations, prevent loss of biodiversity, and protect community interests,” CS Miano said.

She added that the 17-day exercise, which costs over KSh. 12.36 million, will help resolve human-elephant conflicts that have plagued the region while promoting sustainable wildlife management.

The elephants will be moved in family groups, with each group closely monitored to ensure their safe transition to the new environment. One elephant in each group will be fitted with a satellite-linked GPS collar to track movements and ensure their settlement into Aberdare National Park, where they will be monitored for two years.

“This show of empathy and attention to detail is truly commendable. We will track their behavior and interactions to ensure they are thriving in their new home,” Miano explained.

The translocation also aims to prevent elephants from straying into human settlements, particularly farmlands, which has been a persistent problem in the area. Security teams will be on standby to address any issues that arise during the process, ensuring the safety of both the elephants and local communities.

KWS Director General, Dr. Erustus Kanga, praised the scientific groundwork that preceded the translocation, noting that environmental assessments were carried out to confirm that moving the elephants to Aberdare would not disrupt the ecosystem or harm the elephants.

“Elephants are the architects of the environment,” CS Miano remarked, “but when their numbers grow unchecked, they can encroach on human settlements, leading to conflict and untold losses.”

The translocation project is fully funded by the Kenyan government, showcasing its commitment to wildlife conservation and the reduction of human-wildlife conflict. Miano also highlighted the broader benefits of managing elephant populations, including the potential for increased wildlife tourism, which can bring economic growth to local communities.

In her closing remarks, the CS called for continued regional and international cooperation in protecting Africa’s elephant populations. “We cannot conserve elephants alone. Regional and international partnerships are critical to ensuring the survival of these magnificent species.”

The translocation is part of Kenya’s broader strategy to protect wildlife while enhancing human development and economic prosperity in regions affected by wildlife activity. Local leaders, including Embu County Governor Cecily Mbarire and Machakos County Governor Wavinya Ndeti, were present at the event, pledging their support for the initiative.