The Kenyan government has invited public participation in shaping the draft Public Finance Management (Wildlife Conservation Trust Fund) Regulations, 2024. Released by the National Treasury, the proposed regulations aim to bolster wildlife conservation efforts through a structured financing mechanism.
The Wildlife Conservation Trust Fund, established under the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act, 2013, will draw funds from various sources, including a 1% levy on revenues generated from fees charged for entry into parks, reserves, and conservancies. This initiative is designed to provide sustainable funding for conservation activities, ensuring the protection of Kenya’s biodiversity.
“The regulations seek to align the Trust Fund with the legislative requirements and best practices to enhance conservation financing,” stated Hon. CPA John Mbadi Ng’ongo, Cabinet Secretary for the National Treasury and Economic Planning, in the public notice.
The draft regulations are accessible on the National Treasury’s website. The public has until December 6, 2024, to submit their comments or inputs via email, post, or in-person delivery. Stakeholder meetings will also be held on December 5, 2024, at the National Treasury offices. The meetings will include representatives from key organizations such as the Kenya Wildlife Conservancies Association, Kenya Wildlife Service, and the Conservation Alliance of Kenya, among others.
Key areas of consultation include the mechanisms for fund utilization and the potential impacts of the proposed levy on tourism and conservation outcomes. The public is encouraged to provide specific feedback, including alternative suggestions, to refine the regulations before their finalization.
