In a groundbreaking move to boost biodiversity and enhance the coastal tourism appeal, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has launched an ambitious wildlife restocking project aimed at reintroducing and introducing key species to Shimba Hills National Reserve in Kwale County.
This initiative seeks to address the challenges posed by low faunal diversity, improve the reserve’s tourism profile, and contribute to regional wildlife conservation efforts.
Located in the heart of coastal Kenya, Shimba Hills National Reserve is part of the Eastern Arc Mountain and Coastal Forests biodiversity hotspot, a region renowned for its rich plant and animal diversity.
Gazetted in 1968, the reserve has long been a haven for species such as the rare sable antelope, African elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and a unique array of bird, amphibian, and reptile species, many of which are of significant national and international conservation concern.
Despite its ecological importance, the reserve faces several challenges, including a relatively low diversity of large mammal species, which has diminished its appeal to visitors. This has impacted tourism activities and reduced the overall visitor experience.
Additionally, surrounding wildlife dispersal areas in Lunga Lunga, Samburu, and Kinango sub-counties face threats from human-wildlife conflict, poaching, and land use changes, further pressuring local wildlife populations.
The reintroduction and introduction of wildlife species are expected to yield multiple benefits for the reserve and the broader ecosystem. By increasing species diversity, the project will enhance ecological balance, creating a more vibrant and dynamic environment.
This, in turn, will make the reserve more attractive to tourists, improving the visitor experience and encouraging repeat visits. The resulting boost in tourism will provide economic benefits for local communities.
Moreover, relocating animals from surrounding wildlife dispersal areas will help alleviate pressure on these regions, reducing human-wildlife conflict and safeguarding animals from poaching threats.
The initiative will also address the underutilization of grass forage in the reserve due to the low density of grazers.
Species earmarked for translocation include 100 common zebras, 20 Maasai giraffes, 50 impalas, 50 topis, 100 buffaloes, 30 elands, 50 Coke’s hartebeests, lesser kudus, and 10 white rhinos (as a trial introduction). These species, sourced from surrounding areas and protected zones, will help mitigate poaching threats, enhance the reserve’s population, and bolster wildlife conservation efforts.
This wildlife restocking project represents a significant step toward securing the future of Shimba Hills National Reserve and its surrounding regions.
We are excited about the potential impact this initiative will have, not only on the reserve but also on wildlife conservation efforts across the coastal region.
