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{
    "id": 472116,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/472116/?format=api",
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    "content": "takes pride in the successes and gains from these strategies as they determine the future of conservation for the species. Full implementation demands for unwavering support by partners, both locally and internationally. The Ministry through the KWS has developed strategies aimed at enhancing elephant and rhino security to protect them from poaching threats, mainly from armed gangs and also apprehending and dismantling the poaching syndicate. This is a 100 day operation called “ Operation Okoa Ndovu ” which is one of the initiatives aimed at combating elephant poaching in the country. Operation Okoa Ndovu commenced on 22nd April, 2014 and covers the entire country. Tremendous achievements have been realized since the inception of the operation whereby armed gangs have been eliminated, many arrested and other poaching gangs and networks disrupted. Notable recoveries include firearms, ammunition, ivory, other hunting weapons and impounding of vehicles used in transporting ivory and other illegal wildlife products. The Ministry, through the KWS, has reorganized its current deployment of security personnel and equipment by providing security to all national and some private sanctuaries with high level rhino poaching threats such as the Solio Ranch and Oljogi Wildlife Sanctuary, among others. There is also a rapid response unit and teams to support other private rhino sanctuaries such as Ol Pajeta and Lewa conservatories. Mr. Speaker, Sir, the Ministry is strengthening law enforcement capacity through training, acquisition of modern security equipment and restructuring of units to cover poaching hotspots. It efficiently and effectively deploys resources to achieve the desired objective in ever changing and dynamic wildlife crime environment. The Ministry has further facilitated the following through KWS:- 1. Formation of an inter-agency wildlife Anti-poaching Crack Unit. The Unit comprises of General Service Unit (GSU), Rapid Deployment Unit and KWS rangers. These have been deployed to the hotspot areas of Tsavo, Narok and Laikipia/Isiolo respectively. 2. Recruitment and training of 556 rangers to address the game rangers shortfall. 3. Inclusion of KWS as a member of the National Security Advisory Committee and County Security Intelligence Committee at the county level. This has enhanced collaboration among other security organs and sharing of intelligence on poaching threats. 4. Procurement of nine land cruiser pick-ups and deployment of a fleet of 21 vehicles from the KWS Headquarters to boost wildlife security in the parks and wildlife dispersal areas. 5. Enhanced ground aerial patrols in wildlife rangelands and intelligence collection with regard to trafficking. 6. Prosecution of wildlife wards offenders using the new Wildlife Act, 2013 which is more punitive. 7. Enhanced collaboration and awareness programmes to communities in the poaching hotspot areas. 8. Enhanced institutional and regional collaboration with Tanzania Wildlife Authority, Uganda Wildlife Authority and Ethiopia Wildlife Authority with the The electronic version of the Senate Hansard Report is for information purposes only. A certified version of this Report can be obtained from the Hansard Editor, Senate."
}