Kenya launches $160 million program to protect biodiversity and support local livelihoods

The government of Kenya launched a 10-year conservation program called Thamani Asili to protect 17.3 million hectares of existing and community-managed land across 31 counties.

The initiative aims to create 2.7 million hectares of new conserved areas while improving water security and climate resilience for local residents. The Kenyan government provided an $80 million contribution to the fund, with the expectation that philanthropic partners will match that amount to reach a total of $160 million.

Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano presided over the launch at Tsavo West National Park on behalf of President William Ruto. The project involves the Kenya Wildlife Service, The Nature Conservancy, and Enduring Earth. It uses a Project Finance for Permanence model to provide predictable investment and measurable results rather than relying on short-term funding cycles. The government expects the program to benefit 1.6 million people and create nearly 22,800 jobs.