BOMET: Restoration and conservation of Chepalungu Forest remain a top priority for both the national and county governments as global efforts intensify to combat the effects of climate change. Bomet County is taking significant steps toward preserving this vital ecosystem, with plans to establish a Chepalungu Wildlife Sanctuary to support ecotourism and biodiversity conservation.
According to Kenya News Agency, Bomet County’s efforts are backed by a collaboration involving the county government, the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, various NGOs, the private sector, and other government agencies. The initiative aims to introduce wildlife to Chepalungu Forest soon, enhancing the region’s tourism potential and fostering environmental sustainability.
A statement from the office of Governor Hillary Barchok emphasized the importance of these efforts. It highlighted the county government’s commitment to working alongside national counterparts, conservationists, a
nd local stakeholders to achieve the objectives of forest restoration and the establishment of a wildlife sanctuary. This collaboration is seen as crucial for both conserving biodiversity and boosting ecotourism in Bomet County.
To advance this conservation agenda, the county government has been actively engaging with key players in the field of wildlife conservation. This includes a team from the State Department of Wildlife, led by Conservation Secretary Dr. John Chumo, and senior officials from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). Dr. Chumo and the KWS team recently visited Bomet to discuss strategies for preserving both the flora and fauna of the Chepalungu Forest ecosystem.
The visit by the delegation to the Chepalungu ecosystem was viewed as a positive step toward achieving the shared conservation and tourism goals for the county. Dr. John Chumo expressed optimism about the progress made in partnership with the county government, emphasizing the potential for a thriving wildlife sanctuary that will not o
nly protect the environment but also create opportunities for economic growth through ecotourism.