This archive report was first published on 29 June 2021.
On June 28, 2021, Tourism Cabinet Administrative Secretary (CAS) Rtd Joseph Boinnet called on North Rift tourism stakeholders to invest in creating more tourism sites in the region to boost the sector.
Speaking at Kampi Samaki Snake Park during the launch of human wildlife conflict compensation payments, Boinnet emphasized the need to make tourism sceneries in the region more attractive for both wildlife and tourists.
He noted that the government is working on a process to explore the entire ecosystem of the North Rift region, from Cheranganyi in Elgeyo Marakwet to the Tugen hills in Baringo.
"There is a process that the government started which is seeking to explore the entire ecosystem of the North Rift region and my appeal is that we allow the process to continue because I am sure we shall reap its benefits soon," Boinnet said.
Prof. Fred Segor, the Principal Secretary for Wildlife, commended local residents who have surrendered their land for tourism activities and wildlife conservation through community conservancies.
He called on local leaders to support initiatives that allocate the best sceneries for tourism activities, saying, "Where you feel it is the rightful place do a proposal through the county government to see a way of increasing tourist sites since we see that there is a potential of certain areas which can boost tourism activities."
Segor also pointed out that the tourism circuit in some counties from the region, like Baringo, was not strong but said his department was negotiating with other government agencies to improve the sector.
He regretted that Baringo was only utilizing its two main tourism sites, Lake Baringo and Bogoria, and urged the documentation of other unique and beautiful sceneries like Morop Hills and Cheploch gorge along the Kerio Valley region.
Baringo Governor Stanley Kiptis noted that the county was earmarked by UNESCO as the first Sub Saharan geopark site due to its historic sceneries, wild animals, and rich cultural heritage.
He expressed optimism that the county would soon be a popular tourist destination after the mapping of all geopark sites and features within the county is completed.
Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife Najib Balala presided over the Sh 29.7 million payout launch for Baringo wildlife attacks victims and promised to work out ways to fence off the Mochongoi Forest to keep off elephants terrorizing residents of Baringo South.
By Faith Lagat and Christopher Kiprop
