Kenya commits $160m to protect 17 million hectares

Thamani Asili, Swahili for “the value of nature”, was launched in Tsavo West National Park: $160 million over 10 years. Half comes from the Kenyan government and half from partners including The Nature Conservancy and Enduring Earth.

The programme covers about 17.3 million hectares in 31 counties: 2.7 million ha of new protected areas, 11 million ha under stronger protection and 6 million ha managed by local communities. More than 130 community conservancies will get support, around 1.6 million people will benefit directly, and about 7,800 direct jobs and 15,000 indirect ones are expected.

The money will also go to the legendary Tsavo and Maasai Mara. According to Reuters, Tsavo is home to 40% of Kenya’s elephants and a fifth of its black rhinos. By 2035 the programme should prevent about 7.5 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions. A rare case of conservation measured in hectares and jobs at the same time.